Aircraft Washing

[canjond]

I am doing a research project for my environmental law class on aircraft washing and how they are regulated to prevent adverse effects on the environment. I have read online that certain service manuals of aircrafts specify types of soaps that can be sued to wash an airplane, soaps that will not affect the outer surface of the aircraft or harm the environment. I have tried, albeit without any luck, to obtain some service manuals to see exactly what they say... do they just describe washing procedures?; products that can be used?; are there product lists?; etc. If anyone can help me or give me some more direction, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!

 

[avbug]

Washing an airplane is the same as washing a car, for the most part. Certain chemicals should not be used, as these react adversely with aluminum and magnesium. Washing degreasing agents such as simple green, purple K and others tend to be highly corrosive to aircraft, and should never be used.

Some airports utilize "wash racks" that capture rinse water and funnel it into a drain system, usually utilizing an oil separator. Many airports do not, and washing an airplane amounts to the same thing as washing a car. Soap on, scrub, wash off.

Aircraft utilizing Avgas have lead deposits in any exhaust stains or exhaust deposits, which comes away with scrubbing and rinse water. No guidelines have been established for dealing with this minimal hazard, or any other hazardous waste materials which might attend washing aircraft.

Specialized operations involving dispensing of materials from aircraft do have certain guidelines attached for rinsate of chemicals or materials which might adhere to the aircraft, it's systems, etc.

In general, the guidelines you're searching for don't exist.

 

[JetBlast2000]

Can,

Check out some a/c washing companies for specifics on chemicals they use. These people do this for a living and have a very specific system to get the job done quickly and efficiently. If you want to talk to people in your area, start at your airport and find out who is washing the corporate aircraft.
I think you’ll find that the chemicals may be regulated, but not necessarily the usage. Avbug makes a good point, you don’t want to use chemical that are damaging to the a/c.
Good luck.