What material is used to clean and remove oil or dirt from surfaces in assembly?

The material typically used to clean and remove oil or dirt from surfaces in assembly is gauze. This is because gauze is a lightweight, absorbent fabric that is effective at picking up and holding liquids, such as oils or solvents. It can be used to wipe down surfaces without leaving lint or fibers behind, which is crucial in aerospace assembly where cleanliness is critical to prevent contamination and ensure the integrity of components. Its texture allows it to effectively lift dirt and oil, making it a preferred choice in settings where precision and cleanliness are paramount.

Cloth, while it can be absorbent, may shed fibers that could interfere with sensitive equipment or surfaces. Paper towels are typically more disposable and may not provide the same level of absorbency as gauze. Rags can vary widely in material and quality; some may contain residues or lint that are undesirable for clean assembly work. Thus, gauze stands out for its specific advantages in cleaning and preparing surfaces in aerospace assembly.