How should I clean heater plates for welding PE (polyethylene) pipes?

TWI Frequently asked questions

Prior to welding, the heater plate should be washed when cold to remove dirt and residues, using clean water and a lint-free cloth. To remove grease and oily films, a suitable solvent such as isopropanol may be used. Although washing will remove large patches of dirt from the heater plate, very fine particles of dust may still accumulate within the textured surface. To remove such dust, it is recommended that at least one dummy joint is made at the start of each welding session.