TurboKlean AP vs AS: Which Parts Washer Detergent Is Right for Your Shop?

Answer first: Choose AS if you're cleaning aluminum or soft-metal parts that can't be etched — it's purpose-built and safe for heated high-pressure spray cabinets. Choose AP for ferrous and mixed-metal parts, heavy grease loads, or if you need both spray-cabinet and immersion capability. AP also comes in a 1-gallon liquid for low-volume shops.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Both TurboKlean formulas are aqueous, solvent-free, and non-flammable. The table below shows where they differ.

	AP All-Purpose Blend	AS Aluminum-Specific Blend
Best for	Ferrous and mixed metals, heavy grease	Aluminum and soft metals
Chemistry	Alkaline, non-caustic, aqueous	Aqueous, solvent-free
Aluminum safety	Safe for alloys; may discolor white metal after ~1 hr	Purpose-built — will not etch
Foam control	Defoams at 140°F — no separate defoamer needed	Spray-cabinet rated (low foam)
Biodegradable	Yes	See Safety Data Sheet
Available forms	Liquid (APL-1, ~1 gal) + 10 / 25 / 50 lb + 400 lb drum	10 / 25 / 45 lb + 400 lb drum (no liquid option)
Price range	$35 (APL-1) – $1,235 (400 lb drum)	$145 (10 lb) – $1,530 (400 lb drum)
Equipment	Spray cabinet + immersion washers	Heated high-pressure spray cabinet

Prices shown are list prices. Volume and drum pricing available — contact TEMCO Industrial at 1-800-245-1869 or temco@washparts.com.

How to Decide — A Quick Decision Tree

Step 1 — What metal are you cleaning?

• Aluminum or other soft metals → go to Step 2 (AS path)

• Steel, cast iron, magnesium, or a mix of ferrous and non-ferrous → go to Step 3 (AP path) — AP is the confirmed choice for magnesium alloys

Step 2 (AS path) — What equipment do you have?

• Heated high-pressure spray cabinet → Use TurboKlean AS. It won't etch your parts.

• Immersion washer → AP may be more appropriate (AS is rated for spray cabinets; confirm with TEMCO for immersion use).

Step 3 (AP path) — How heavy is the grease load?

• Heavy grease, oil, and grime (engine blocks, transmissions, brake shoes, alternators) → Use TurboKlean AP.

• Light contamination, mixed metals, or you want a single formula that handles both — AP is the versatile choice.

Step 4 — Volume?

• Low volume or trial run → AP comes in a 1-gallon liquid (APL-1, $35). AS starts at 10 lb.

• High volume (fleet, production shop) → both formulas available in 400 lb drums for the lowest cost per wash.

Still not sure? Call TEMCO at 1-800-245-1869.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will TurboKlean AP etch my aluminum parts?

AP is safe for aluminum alloys and magnesium alloys in normal wash cycles. However, extended exposure (beyond approximately one hour) may discolor white metal. For parts that require strict surface protection, use TurboKlean AS, which is purpose-built to clean aluminum without etching.

Does TurboKlean AP require a separate defoamer?

No. AP defoams automatically at 140°F, eliminating the need for a separate defoamer in heated spray cabinet or immersion applications.

Is TurboKlean biodegradable?

TurboKlean AP is biodegradable. For AS, consult the Safety Data Sheet for current biodegradability and environmental data.

Can I use AP or AS in an immersion (hot-tank) washer?

AP is rated for both spray-cabinet and immersion applications. AS is rated for heated high-pressure spray cabinets. Confirm AS compatibility with your specific immersion setup by contacting TEMCO before use.

Do you offer a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

Yes. TurboKlean Safety Data Sheets are available at turboklean.com/sds-info.

What size should I order for a small shop?

For a small shop doing occasional cleaning, the APL-1 1-gallon liquid ($35) is a low-commitment starting point. For ongoing production use, the 45–50 lb concentrate (AP-50 for AP at $245; AS-45 for AS at $265) offers better value; the 400 lb drum delivers the lowest cost per wash for high-volume shops.

See TEMCO's full line of parts washers — including spray cabinets and immersion units compatible with TurboKlean detergents — at washparts.com/parts-washers.