Which method is not used to clean magnesium engine parts?

Which method is not used to clean magnesium engine parts?

• A. Soak in a 20 percent caustic soda solution
• B. Spray with MEK
• C. Wash with a commercial solvent, carbonize, and scrape or grit blast
• D. Ultrasonic cleaning

Answer: (B)

Magnesium engine parts require cleaning methods that remove oil and coatings without attacking the metal or creating fire hazards. Magnesium is reactive and can be damaged by harsh chemicals or sparks, so safer, controlled cleaning methods are preferred. Ultrasonic cleaning works well because it uses sound waves in a solvent or water-based solution to lift contaminants without mechanical scrubbing or heat. Soaking in a caustic soda solution can break down difficult residues when done with proper control, and washing with a commercial solvent followed by carbonizing and scraping or grit blasting physically removes coatings and grime in a way that is manageable for magnesium. Spraying with MEK is avoided because MEK is a highly flammable solvent with vapors that can ignite or explode in a shop environment, especially around hot surfaces, sparks, or other ignition sources. That fire and explosion risk makes it unsuitable as a routine cleaning method for magnesium engine parts.

Magnesium engine parts require cleaning methods that remove oil and coatings without attacking the metal or creating fire hazards. Magnesium is reactive and can be damaged by harsh chemicals or sparks, so safer, controlled cleaning methods are preferred. Ultrasonic cleaning works well because it uses sound waves in a solvent or water-based solution to lift contaminants without mechanical scrubbing or heat. Soaking in a caustic soda solution can break down difficult residues when done with proper control, and washing with a commercial solvent followed by carbonizing and scraping or grit blasting physically removes coatings and grime in a way that is manageable for magnesium.

Spraying with MEK is avoided because MEK is a highly flammable solvent with vapors that can ignite or explode in a shop environment, especially around hot surfaces, sparks, or other ignition sources. That fire and explosion risk makes it unsuitable as a routine cleaning method for magnesium engine parts.