To get optimal results from any type of wipes—especially in controlled environments—engineers need to be savvy about the technology they select and the packaging in which the wipes come.

Everybody uses wipes. Wiping surfaces is such a common, natural, and pervasive cleaning process that we tend to forget the complex technology embedded in these inexpensive and reliable cleaningtools.

In general, there are three broad categories of wipes: wipes made of paper, wipes made of woven or knitted cloth, and wipes made of nonwoven synthetic cloth. Here’s a quick review of the choices and the attributes to consider when investigating the best product for any specific application.

WIPE SPECIFICATIONS
With hundreds of choices and grades, selecting the most cost-effective wipe can be tricky. The most obvious criteria is the absorbency of the wipe. But, it is not well understood that absorbency varies by the contamination. Some wipes will not absorb water; others are better with solvents and lacquers. The general rule is that “like absorbs like.” For example, polyester is petroleum-based, so polyester wipes easily absorb gasoline, fuel oils, and alcohols but are far less effective on water-based contamination. Natural fibers, such as cellulose, are water-based and so are best for water-based contamination. In short, the contamination defines which type of wipe will be best.

The second criteria is cleanliness; that is, contamination caused by the wipe itself. Cleanliness usually is inversely related to absorbency, and balancing the conflicting requirements can be a challenge. The cleanest wipes often are less porous and will not absorb as much contamination, while more absorbent materials may be more fragile and leave fibers or residues.

Engineers also must consider any special requirements of their application. Medical applications may require sterile wipes. Schools, hospitals, and the wood-working industry use wipes impregnated with a“ tackafier” that attracts and retains dust. Wipes that will be usedwith solvents need to be tested to ensure that the solvents will not degradeany glues or binders in the wipe, which would leave residues. So, understanding the application is essential to a successful selection process.