
Recochem Shellite R55 is a fast evaporating hydrocarbon solvent for degreasing and pre paint cleaning, in 20 L drums (minimum 4), 200 L drums and IBCs.
What it does
Recosol R55, the product many trades still call shellite, is a light aliphatic naphtha that evaporates very quickly and leaves no residue. Recochem rates it highly for dissolving greases and oils, yet calls it a weak solvent that is unlikely to mark the surface of most materials. That combination makes it a contact cleaner and a final wipe before painting, where you want the surface clean and dry within moments.
Where to use it
Panel and paint shops, fabricators, electrical and maintenance workshops, and manufacturers using it in blends that need fast evaporation. Use it on metal parts, painted panels before recoating, tools, and components that must dry without a film. See more solvents and thinners.
How to use
- Work in strong ventilation, away from any ignition source.
- Wet a clean, lint free cloth and wipe the surface in one direction.
- Follow straight away with a dry cloth to lift dissolved grease before it redeposits.
- Let the surface flash off fully before painting or reassembly.
Safe on / avoid
Suits metals, glass, cured paint and most hard materials, which it is unlikely to affect. Test soft plastics and rubber first, since it contains hexane. It is extremely flammable, with a flash point of minus 30°C: never use it near pilot lights, heaters or hot work. Read the Safety Data Sheet before use.
Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Colourless liquid |
| Odour | Paraffinic sweet |
| Flash point | -30°C (Abel) |
| Boiling point | 50 to 135°C |
| Solubility in water | Not miscible with water |
| Dangerous goods | Class 3, UN 1268, PG II |
| Poisons schedule | Schedule 5 |
| CAS number | 64742-89-8 |
Pack sizes and delivery
Choose the 20L Drum (minimum order 4 units), the 200L Drum or the 1000L IBC to match your usage. Freight is quoted to your postcode at checkout. Dangerous goods freight applies.
▸Is R55 the same as shellite?
Yes. Recochem lists Recosol R55 with shellite as its common name.
▸Will shellite damage paint?
Recochem describes it as a weak solvent unlikely to affect most surfaces, and it is sold for cleaning before painting. Test fresh or soft finishes first.
▸How fast does shellite evaporate?
Very fast. It boils from 50°C and flashes off within moments in normal conditions.
▸What is the difference between shellite and wax and grease remover?
Both are light naphthas. Recochem Wax and Grease Remover has a wider boiling range, so it stays wet a little longer on the panel.
DANGER Highly flammable liquid and vapour (H225). Swallowing it can kill if the liquid gets into the lungs (H304). May cause genetic defects (H340). May cause cancer (H350). Suspected of damaging fertility (H361f). Damages organs with prolonged or repeated exposure (H372). Causes skin irritation (H315). Causes serious eye irritation (H319). May cause drowsiness or dizziness (H336). Toxic to aquatic life, with lasting effects (H411).
- PPE: Safety goggles and gloves that stand up to solvents (nitrile when handling is prolonged, PVC or neoprene against splashes). Where vapour could pass the exposure standard, an organic vapour respirator to AS1716.
- Handling and storage: Highly flammable. Work with good ventilation and keep it away from heat, sparks, flames and direct sun. Earth and bond drums and gear during transfer, since static can light the vapour. Keep it apart from strong oxidants.
- First aid: Swallowed: do not make the person vomit, get medical help. Eyes: hold the lids apart and rinse with running water for 15 minutes or more. Skin: take off soaked clothing, wash with water and then soap. Inhaled: get them into clean air and let them rest. Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26.
- Spills: Remove ignition sources, keep it out of drains and waterways with sand or earth, then absorb it or pump it into labelled, sealable containers.
- Dangerous goods: UN 1268, PETROLEUM DISTILLATES, N.O.S. (solvent naphtha), Class 3, Packing Group II, Hazchem 3YE.
- Poisons schedule: Schedule 5. Store out of children's reach.
- SDS: Safety Data Sheet dated 1 Feb 2022 attached to this page.
Dangerous goods · Class 3 · UN1268 · Packing group II
Recochem Shellite R55
Pricing by Packaging Size
Earns a loyalty stamp
Order this product in 1000L IBC to earn 1 stamp. Collect 10 stamps for a free IBC of TW Standard, TW Premium, or Eco Wash.
Packaging Size
Quantity
20L Drum is sold in a minimum of 4.
Delivery Information
Estimated dispatch: 8 business days after you order.
Freight is quoted to your postcode at checkout before you pay, with an estimated delivery date where the carrier gives one.
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