Use linetox when you need a heavy‑duty degreaser that cuts through carbon, oil, and protein soils without aggressive acid fumes. The short answer is: dilute the concentrate to the right strength, apply it to a pre‑wet surface, let it dwell for the prescribed time, then mechanically agitate and rinse thoroughly. Below is a detailed, step‑by‑step guide that covers chemistry, safety, dilution tables, and post‑clean inspection so you can get consistent results on industrial equipment, kitchen exhausts, or workshop floors.
1. What Linetox Is Made Of
Linetox is a blend of non‑ionic surfactants, chelating agents, and a low‑pH (2.8–3.2) buffer system. The surfactants lower surface tension to about 28 mN/m at 1 % dilution, which lets the formula wet and penetrate thick grime layers. The chelators bind calcium and magnesium ions, preventing scale formation on cleaning surfaces.
“For best results, always pre‑wet the surface with clean water before applying Linetox. This prevents rapid drying and maximizes surfactant contact.” – Technical Bulletin L‑202‑03
2. Safety First
- Wear chemical‑resistant gloves (nitrile, ≥4 mil thickness).
- Use goggles or face shield to avoid splashes.
- Work in a well‑ventilated area or use exhaust fans that move ≥500 CFM.
- Have a neutralizing solution (e.g., 5 % sodium bicarbonate) ready in case of spills.
3. Dilution Ratios & Mixing
The concentrate is a viscous amber liquid with a specific gravity of 1.08 g/mL. Use a calibrated dosing pump or a graduated cylinder to achieve the ratios below.
| Soil Level | Recommended Dilution ( concentrate : water ) | Typical Volume for 1 L Final Solution | Temperature (°C) | Contact Time (min) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light (dust, light grease) | 1 : 80 | 12.5 mL concentrate + 987.5 mL water | 20–25 | 3–5 |
| Medium (kitchen grease, light oil) | 1 : 40 | 25 mL concentrate + 975 mL water | 30–35 | 5–8 |
| Heavy (industrial carbon, baked‑on protein) | 1 : 20 | 50 mL concentrate + 950 mL water | 40–45 | 10–15 |
Mix in a clean HDPE (high‑density polyethylene) container. Add water first, then pour the concentrate to avoid immediate foaming. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until the solution appears uniform.
4. Application Techniques
Choose the delivery method that matches the surface geometry and soil density.
- Pump‑sprayer – ideal for flat panels and vertical surfaces.
- Pre‑wet the area with plain water.
- Spray the diluted Linetox from 15–20 cm away, using a fan‑nozzle.
- Allow the solution to bead; do not let it dry.
- Foam cannon – works well for porous or textured materials (e.g., concrete, brick).
- Set the foam cannon to 1 : 8 foam ratio.
- Apply a thick foam layer, covering at least 2 mm thickness.
- Let dwell time follow the table above.
- Mop or auto‑scrubber – for large floor areas.
- Fill the reservoir with the 1 : 40 dilution.
- Set the brush speed to 150–200 rpm.
- Pass the machine in an overlapping “S” pattern, keeping the floor wet.
5. Contact Time & Agitation