1.10      Parts Washers and Degreasers Permitting Process

1.10.1          Permitting Requirements for Parts Washers and Degreasers

Consultants should consider the use of non-solvent based parts washers and degreasers whenever practicable. Alternative non-solvent based (citrus-based or microbial cleaning agents) parts washers and degreasers do not require permitting and will reduce air emissions at MDOT MAA and tenant owned facilities. If an alternative non-solvent based parts washer and/or degreaser cannot be installed, the Environmental Compliance Section must be notified.

Cold and vapor degreasing and the control of VOC emissions is covered under COMAR 26.11.19.09 and specifies requirements for the use of VOC degreasing material. Specifically, the regulation prohibits the use of any VOC degreasing material that exceeds 1mm Hg at 20 degrees Celsius (0.019 psia). In addition, a person may not use VOC degreasing material in vapor degreasing unless the vapor degreasing is equipped with a condenser or a pollution control device with an efficiency of not less than 90%. This regulation also provides provisions for good operating practices and there is no requirement for a permit to construct. A person subject to COMAR 26.11.19.09 may not use a halogenated substance that is a VOC in any cold degreasing. The use of halogenated solvents is not recommended to avoid the stringent requirements set forth in 40 CFR Part 63, Subpart T.

It should be noted that unheated volatile organic compound (VOC) dispensing containers or unheated rinsing containers (i.e., parts washers) of 60 gallons (227 liters) capacity or less are exempt from obtaining an Air Quality Permit to Construct per COMAR 26.11.02.10M.

1.10.2          Design Guidelines for Parts Washers and Degreasers

The consultant must ensure that cold and vapor degreasing machines meet the standards set forth in COMAR 26.11.19.09 and are equipped with a condenser or pollution control device with an efficiency of at least 90%. In addition, the Consultant shall ensure compliance with the other VOC control requirements by maintaining good operating practices such as ensuring all parts washers and degreasers are equipped with covers, lids, or other methods of minimizing evaporative losses. Consultants should also ensure that each parts washer and degreaser include a sign with the good operating practices established and displayed to all operators.