Abstract: An automated cleaning system according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, an X-Y positioning system configured to position a lance guide relative to an element to be cleaned. The X-Y positioning system is remotely operated. The system further includes a lance in communication with the lance guide, a drive system configured to drive the lance relative to the element to be cleaned, and a reel configured to manage a slack in the lance.

Abstract: Cleaning process for removing material coated on the inner surface of an enclosed vessel. e.g., photographic emulsion, photopolymer, subbing layer, chemicals, etc., comprisingA. forming a substantially continuous high pressure stream of cleaning liquid, e.g., water, solvent,B. supplying the stream of liquid at a pressure, 4000 to 8000 psi to at least one fixed point in the vessel,C. dividing the stream into at least two opposed paths, andD. directing the liquid onto said surfaces in a 360.degree. solid angle using the fixed point as the angle vertex.The process is particularly useful in cleaning photographic emulsions but is also useful in removing other chemical materials and chemicals from an enclosed vessel.