Abstract: A method of vapor degreasing workpieces using a refrigerated vapor degreasing system. The system has a tank for containing a bath of degreasing solvent, a heater for vaporizing the solvent, a primary solvent condenser, a secondary solvent condenser, and a single refrigeration unit which can be switched to operate in two different modes. Workpieces are loaded and supported within the tank. The degreasing solvent is heated and evaporated in the tank. Refrigerant is cycled in a closed-loop, single compressor refrigeration system as low-pressure/low-temperature vapor, high-pressure/high-temperature vapor, high-pressure/low-temperature liquid, low-pressure/low-temperature vapor, and low-pressure/low-temperature liquid. A degreasing zone is formed around the workpiece and a primary evaporation barrier is formed above the workpiece by circulating low-pressure/low-temperature refrigerant from the refrigeration system through the primary solvent condenser located above the workpiece.

Abstract: A refrigerated vapor degreasing system for cleaning workpieces. The system has a tank for containing a bath of degreasing solvent, a heater for vaporizing the solvent, a primary solvent condenser, a secondary solvent condenser, and a single refrigeration unit which can be switched to operate in two different modes. The primary solvent condenser creates a degreasing zone above the solvent bath around work pieces supported therein and creates a primary barrier preventing the vaporized solvent from escaping the tank. The secondary solvent condenser creates a cold air blanket above the degreasing zone which acts as a secondary barrier preventing the vaporized solvent from escaping the tank. The single refrigeration unit simultaneously provides low-temperature refrigerant to the secondary solvent condenser and the primary solvent condenser in a first mode.