What does Alkaline Cleaning primarily do?

Alkaline cleaning is a process that involves using alkaline solutions, typically containing substances like sodium hydroxide, to effectively remove soil, oil, and grease from surfaces. The alkaline solution reacts with these contaminants, breaking down their molecular structure and converting them into a soapy film that can be easily rinsed away with water. This property makes alkaline cleaning particularly effective for preparing metal surfaces prior to further maintenance, such as painting, because it ensures that the surface is free of contaminants that could interfere with adhesion or the performance of coatings.

While preparing surfaces for painting is indeed a crucial role of alkaline cleaning, the primary action of the cleaning process is the conversion of oil and grease into a removable film. Hence, it is accurate to say that the main focus of alkaline cleaning is the removal of these substances through a chemical reaction, rather than just the act of preparing surfaces for paint or other purposes.