Tool Cleaning Tip
Having professional tools to work with is a joy, perhaps more convenient, nevertheless, they don’t work any better than our rudimentary DIY tools. That being said, being a tool hound, I just can’t resist tool glam.
The Problem
Cleaning cyanoacrylate off tools is a chore, a real mess after repeated use. Setting the tool end coated with cyanoacrylate residue alight burns it off but at the expense of heat tarnishing the applicator or burning off the tip dispensing fingers completely.
The Solution
Here is what I have found to work very well while retaining the pristine condition of the tool.
- Wipe the tool with a cotton dishcloth/face cloth/bar wipes etc to remove any remaining liquid cyanoacrylate.
- Ideally, wipe the tool clean using Acetone (100%). Cyanoacrylate, clear or black formulations dissolve quickly leaving, the tool free of accumulation.
- TAMIYA AIRBRUSH CLEANER or TAMIYA EXTRA THIN CEMENT (Dark Green Cap) works in a pinch but lacks the solvent power of straight Acetone. The n-Butyl acetate blend cuts the Acetone strength by 50%.
- TAMIYA AIRBRUSH CLEANER & TAMIYA EXTRA THIN CEMENT (Dark Green Cap) are the same formulations.
Final Thoughts
Now you can purchase those fancy Cyanoacrylate Applicator Tools and keep them looking like new. Stock up on a container of 100% Acetone to have on hand. You will be glad you did. 
