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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Yes—welding near some brake cleaners can create a potentially fatal inhalation hazard. Certain chlorinated cleaners and their residues can break down when exposed to welding heat or arc ultraviolet radiation, producing dangerous gases such as phosgene and hydrogen chloride. The risk depends on the exact product and conditions: “brake cleaner” is not one chemical, and not every formulation produces phosgene. Check the current label and safety data sheet (SDS), and follow the hot-work rules that apply to your workplace.
Why welding and some brake cleaners are a dangerous combination
The concern is not the generic name “brake cleaner” by itself. It is the possibility that chlorinated solvents—or their vapors or residue—will encounter welding heat or ultraviolet radiation from the arc. OSHA lists phosgene and hydrogen chloride among possible breakdown products of chlorinated-hydrocarbon degreasing residues. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) also identifies welding metals cleaned with chlorinated solvents as a possible route of phosgene exposure.
Product formulation matters. For example, a CRC Brakleen cleaner SDS identifies tetrachloroethylene and warns that extreme heat or hot surfaces may produce harmful or fatal corrosive gases, including hydrogen chloride and possibly phosgene. That warning applies to the named product, not every brake cleaner. OSHA’s welding chemicals guidance describes the broader decomposition hazard.
What phosgene can do to a person
Phosgene is a serious respiratory hazard. ATSDR says lower exposures can cause eye or throat irritation, coughing, or wheezing; higher exposures can cause lung swelling and difficulty breathing. Severe lung effects may not become apparent until the next day. Do not treat mild or absent symptoms immediately after a suspected exposure as proof that everything is fine.
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- Superior Performance: This Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner was formulated by GUNK professionals to be the highest performing brake and parts cleaner to clean better and dry faster.
- Convenient 12-Pack Case: GUNK Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner efficiently cuts through brake dust and grime and dries quick with no residue. It's an essential tool for any mechanic.
- Versatile Cleaning Capabilities: GUNK Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner can be used as a parts cleaner spray for other engine components and other crucial vehicle parts, thanks to its powerful formula.
- Precision Application with Spray Can Design: Each can of Chlorinated Brake Cleaner allows for targeted application, so you get a thorough cleaning every time without needing to disassemble parts.
- Utilizing a chlorinated formulation, this brake cleaner spray is not for use in CA and NJ. Gunk Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner (M710) is also available where a non-chlorinated version is needed
If you suspect exposure, get to fresh air without entering the contaminated area or putting another person at risk, and seek emergency medical care—especially if any symptoms develop. Follow emergency procedures at the site and tell responders that phosgene exposure may be involved.
Identify the product before hot work
Do not rely on a familiar brand name, color, or a general claim such as “non-flammable.” Check the exact container and its current SDS before using a cleaner on or near work that will be welded. Look for the stated ingredients, whether the product is chlorinated, and warnings about heat, flames, hot surfaces, or welding. Use the product only under the site’s hot-work controls.
Rank #2
- Powerful Brake System Degreaser – Quickly removes brake fluid, grease, oil, and other contaminants from brake components to restore optimal braking performance.
- Chlorinated for Superior Degreasing – High-performance formula penetrates and lifts stubborn grime with ease, making it a go-to choice for tough jobs.
- Fast-Drying, Residue-Free Finish – Leaves no sticky or oily residue behind, ensuring clean surfaces for brake pad and rotor contact without compromising safety.
- Ideal for Disc & Drum Brakes – Designed for use on brake linings, drums, pads, rotors, and other brake system parts—perfect for routine maintenance and repairs.
- Made in the USA Since 1918 – Trusted by professionals and DIYers alike, Berryman delivers high-performance automotive solutions backed by over a century of American-made quality.
A non-chlorinated product may avoid the specific chlorinated-solvent decomposition concern, but that label alone does not establish that it is safe for welding conditions. CRC’s non-chlorinated Brakleen SDS page, for example, warns against spraying the cleaner on flames or incandescent material. Check the exact product’s current label and SDS rather than assuming formulations are interchangeable.
Follow the hot-work rule that applies to your workplace
OSHA provisions address different workplace settings; their requirements should not be collapsed into one universal distance or rule. Apply the standard relevant to your operation and follow any stricter site procedure.
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- BRAKLEEN: Maintaining clean brake and disc parts can improve the life of your car's braking system and keep you safe on the roads. Using Brakleen is a great way to maximize the performance and increase the longevity of your brake system.
- APPLICATIONS: Brakleen is ideal for use on spring brakes, wedge brakes, brake cylinders, brake drums, brake linings, brake shoes, calipers, clutch discs, and disc brake pads
- NON-FLAMMABLE: This formula is non-flammable and is safe to use on all components of your brake system. It uses a potent solvent that cleans and dries fast to remove contaminants and leaves no residue.
- SIZE: This item is a 19 oz spray offered in a 12 pack.
- CRC INDUSTRIES: A market leader that offers impeccably designed chemical solutions to maintain, protect and repair different marine, heavy-duty motor vehicles, industrial-grade engines, household tools and electrical equipment
- Maritime hot work: Under 29 CFR 1917.152, surfaces prepared with chlorinated solvents must be thoroughly dry before welding. For inert-gas metal-arc welding, chlorinated solvents may not be used within 200 feet of the exposed arc.
- General-industry welding: 29 CFR 1910.252 requires chlorinated-hydrocarbon degreasing and cleaning operations to be located so their vapors do not reach the atmosphere around welding operations.
These provisions do not make an otherwise unsafe product or setup acceptable. Identify the exact cleaner, prevent hazardous vapors or residue from reaching the welding atmosphere, and use the applicable hot-work procedure.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Exposure limits are not a target
ATSDR reports an OSHA phosgene permissible exposure limit of 0.1 ppm over an eight-hour work shift. NIOSH lists 2 ppm as the immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) value. These are occupational reference values, not permission to generate phosgene or to work in a contaminated area. NIOSH identifies welders who use chlorinated solvents for cleaning as workers who may be exposed.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Chlorinated Formula – GUNK brake cleaner spray can features a chlorinated formula that provides stronger cleaning action for brake pads, rotors, and calipers while remaining non-flammable.
- Quickly Removes Build-Up – This brake parts cleaner penetrates and lifts brake dust, grease, and oil, helping maintain brake components efficiently and with less effort.
- Non-Flammable Formula – The chlorinated, non-flammable formula makes this brake clean spray safer to use in workshops or garages while still providing strong cleaning performance.
- Fast-Drying & No Residue – Dries quickly after application, leaving no residue behind, so parts are ready for immediate use and safe reassembly. Ideal for professional and DIY brake maintenance.
- Easy to Apply – Convenient brake cleaner spray can be applied directly to pads, rotors, and calipers, making routine brake maintenance faster and easier.
Rank #4
- Contains Zero VOC's (Volatile Organic Compounds)
- Cleans and Degreases Brake Shoes, Drums, Cylinders, Rotors, Disc Brakes and Parts
- Allows Cleaning Without Disassembly
- Helps Stop Brake Squeaking and Can Improve Braking Performance
- Leaves No Residue and Is Non-Staining
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
