IPA Dilution

[MR2Don]

OK, this is more general than this topic, but...

I repeatedly find forum entries stating dilution levels for IPA, anywhere from 90% IPA to 70%. My query is, especially at 90%, is this for chemical reasons? Only 10% dilution seems hardly worth it to save IPA quantity. I'm only intending to use it for cleaning, but am just wondering if neat IPA can do any damage to airbrush interiors.

[Mr Bowcat]

I use 99.9% pure IPA to clean my airbrush, and a I soak my AB in a plastic tub filled with the same IPA when not in use. I've had no problems with it eating any of the o-rings or seals.

[Pin]

1 hour ago, MR2Don said:

if neat IPA can do any damage to airbrush interiors

 

If you have proper, quality airbrush - no. 

[Mike]

1 hour ago, MR2Don said:

am just wondering if neat IPA can do any damage to airbrush interiors.

Only if your airbrush is made of acrylic paint IPA is one of those fairly friendly solutions that isn't too harsh for cleaning most things.  It's a bit melty around acrylic paint though, which can be a huge benefit for stripping models.  Some airbrushes don't like being soaked in cellulose thinners due to their use of rubber o-rings, but most modern brushes are pretty much bomb proof in that regard

[Chrissy_J]

I think I'd be concerned with what 70% IPA is diluted =with= ... it might not be very nice for your paint or kit.

 

If you're just using it for cleaning then I don't suppose the purity matters, but my supplier does 99.9% cheaper than 70%, so that's what I buy. 

 

For airbrush cleaning I prefer a 5% by volume solution of ammonia in distilled water, it's loads cheaper than IPA.

 

 

 

 

[Witness]

53 minutes ago, Chrissy_J said:

I think I'd be concerned with what 70% IPA is diluted =with= ... it might not be very nice for your paint or kit.

 

 

 

 

 

Water usually.