nPB Replacement: Common Misconceptions

From 4 July 2020, the use of nPB (also known as n-propyl bromide or 1-bromopropane) is no longer allowed. There remains some confusion around using nPB, so as the deadline fast approaches, here are some common misconceptions and the facts…

Myth #1: ‘The nPB deadline is just guidance’

This is not the case. From 4 July 2020, the use of nPB is prohibited.

It has been banned under REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulations, so if you are still using it in cleaning and degreasing processes, you must find a replacement as soon as possible, unless specific authorisation to keep using it has been granted.

Myth #2: ‘It’s too late to worry about it now’

You’re not too late! There’s still time to find an alternative chemistry, and there’s a range of new generation solvents which are much safer, and also more environmentally friendly.

nPB is a hazardous substance that can damage fertility and harm unborn children. For the safety of all employees and their families, a safer alternative should be adopted as soon as possible. Don’t delay any longer – get in touch with us

Read our five simple steps to nPB replacement and get started today.

Myth #3: ‘I can’t progress this while social distancing is in place’

If you’re wondering whether you can replace nPB while the UK is in lockdown, you’re in luck. Our team is incredibly knowledgeable, and the initial assessment to start the process can be done over the phone. We can discuss your individual applications and requirements; offer advice on trials and timing; and can test samples for you through the post. Our aim is to make the transition as seamless and easy for you as possible, and we can do this for you while maintaining all social and physical distance restrictions.

Myth #4: ‘The replacement process will cause a disruption to my business’

We’re committed to making sure nPB replacement is as simple, straight-forward, cost-effective and efficient as possible. Our nPB replacement service includes a full audit, survey of existing equipment and recommendation of the most suitable alternative substance. For most applications, there is a quick, drop in alternative chemistry, which you can trust to achieve the standard of cleaning and degreasing that you expect.

Opteon™ SF80® by Chemours™, for example, is an ideal drop-in nPB alternative. It is safe, extremely eco-friendly (ultra low GWP), and offers a superior cleaning performance to nPB and other restricted solvents. It is an effective replacement for nPB, TCE, HCFCs, PFCs, HFCs and HFEs solvents, and is becoming known as the leader within a variety of cleaning applications such as vapour degreasing, oil and grease removal, precision cleaning, high solvency defluxing, and silicone removal, amongst many other uses.

Other alternatives include SF79®, the predecessor to SF80®, which has been widely approved within the aerospace and medical sectors. These products allow businesses to make a one-step replacement, saving time and ultimately costs.

The clock is ticking for nPB. Get in touch today and we can get the process started for you. Call 01506 443 058 or email sales@frasertech.co.uk for more advice and an initial assessment.