Ultrasonic is sound generated beyond human audible
level. In real life, high pitch sound is created by high frequency, and
alternatively, the low and base tone is created by low frequency. Frequencies
above 16 kHz in general are being considered as ultrasonic. Typical ultrasonic
frequencies used for cleaning purpose are from 20 kHz to 80 kHz.
What is "cavitation"?
A."Cavitation" is the rapid formation and collapse of millions of tiny bubbles (or cavities) in a liquid. Cavitation is produced by the alternating high and low pressure waves generated by high frequency (ultrasonic) sound. During the low pressure phase, these bubbles grow from microscopic size until, during the high pressure phase, they are compressed and implode.
A."Cavitation" is the rapid formation and collapse of millions of tiny bubbles (or cavities) in a liquid. Cavitation is produced by the alternating high and low pressure waves generated by high frequency (ultrasonic) sound. During the low pressure phase, these bubbles grow from microscopic size until, during the high pressure phase, they are compressed and implode.
What is "degassing", and why should it be
done?
A."Degassing" is the initial removal of gases present in the solution. Useful cavitation occurs after gasses have been removed from the cleaning solution, leaving a vacuum in the formed bubble. When the high pressure wave hits the bubble wall, the bubble collapses; it is the energy released by this collapse that will assist a detergent in breaking the bonds between parts and their soils.
A."Degassing" is the initial removal of gases present in the solution. Useful cavitation occurs after gasses have been removed from the cleaning solution, leaving a vacuum in the formed bubble. When the high pressure wave hits the bubble wall, the bubble collapses; it is the energy released by this collapse that will assist a detergent in breaking the bonds between parts and their soils.
What are the advantages of ultrasonic cleaning?
- Easy handling
- Shorter cleaning time
- Less chemistry
- Low cleaning temperatures
- Reproducible result
What can I clean using ultrasonic technology?
This list is almost endless. Provided the product is non porous and can normally be immersed in water almost anything can be thoroughly cleaned. Here are some examples:
This list is almost endless. Provided the product is non porous and can normally be immersed in water almost anything can be thoroughly cleaned. Here are some examples:
· Jewellery especially gold, silver & platinum
· Watchstraps & Waterproof Watches
· Coins and other collectibles
· Glasses & Sunglasses
· PCB Boards etc
· Engine/Model parts
· Toothbrushes & Dentures
· CD & DVD's (with the 7800 and Ultra 7000
models)
Which industry is ultrasonic cleaning suitable for?
- Optical and glass industry
- Electronic industry
- Chemical industry
- Galvanic industry
- Fine mechanical industry
- Power stations （Engine
components）
- Metal industry
- Automobile
industry
What can I not clean?
There is very little, but if you have any doubt we strongly recommend you contact the manufacturer of the item you want to clean first. However we do know that we would not recommend the following without getting approval from the manufacturer first: Some precious stones eg, emeralds Some plastics some plastics are porous and the ultrasonic cleaning can cause some whitening
There is very little, but if you have any doubt we strongly recommend you contact the manufacturer of the item you want to clean first. However we do know that we would not recommend the following without getting approval from the manufacturer first: Some precious stones eg, emeralds Some plastics some plastics are porous and the ultrasonic cleaning can cause some whitening
Can ultrasonic cleaning damage my parts?
With certain cautions, ultrasonic
cleaning is considered safe for most parts. While the effects of thousands of
implosions per second is very powerful, the cleaning process is safe since the
energy is localized at the microscopic level. The most important cautionary consideration
is the choice of cleaning solution. Potentially adverse effects of the
detergent on the material being cleaned will be enhanced by the ultrasonics.
The difference between
25kHz and 40kHz?
Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems are available in two frequencies, 25kHz
or 40kHz, to help match the unit to your application. Generally 25kHz is
preferred for large massive parts or parts which are more densely packed. The
higher 40kHz frequency is often used for smaller, more intricate parts or
components with complex geometries.
How do I know if the
unit is cavitating properly?
Most poor cleaning usually results from improper control of one or more process variable(s); such as choosing the wrong detergent solution, insufficient heat, or not allowing enough time for the particular soil to be removed. If you suspect that your ultrasonic cleaner is not cavitating properly, there are two simple tests you can perform: the "glass slide" test and the "foil" test.
Most poor cleaning usually results from improper control of one or more process variable(s); such as choosing the wrong detergent solution, insufficient heat, or not allowing enough time for the particular soil to be removed. If you suspect that your ultrasonic cleaner is not cavitating properly, there are two simple tests you can perform: the "glass slide" test and the "foil" test.
Ultrasonic Cleaning:
frequency higher the better?
The frequency of an ultrasonic cleaning device has nothing to do with the
cleaning power. The ideal cleaning frequency is determined by what is going to
be cleaned. Simply speaking, the higher the frequency the more capable it is to
remove smaller particles.
What is the optimum cleaning temperature?
Heat usually enhances and speeds up
the cleaning process, and most detergent solutions are designed to work best at
an elevated temperature. The best way to find the optimum temperature, which
will give you the fastest, cleanest and safest results, is to run tests.
Usually, the best results are within the 40°C to 60°C range.
What is the purpose of the unit heater?
The primary purpose of the unit
heater is to maintain a solution temperature between cleaning cycles. The tremendous
energy released by cavitation will generate the heat for cleaning.
How do I get the best ultrasonic
cleaning?
There are many considerations
important to ultrasonic cleaning. Optimizing these variables will produce the
best cleaning. The most important decisions to be made are choosing the proper
cleaning solution, cleaning at the right temperature for the correct amount of
time, and choosing the right size and type of ultrasonic cleaner.
What cleaning solution should I use?
Modern ultrasonic cleaning solutions are compounded from a variety of detergents, wetting agents and other reactive components. A large variety of excellent formulations are available, designed for specific applications. Proper selection is crucial for acceptable cleaning activity and to preclude undesirable reactivity with the part being cleaned. Your Bransonic® representative can help you to identify either the optimal 'stock' cleaning formula, or likely candidates to test and evaluate.
Modern ultrasonic cleaning solutions are compounded from a variety of detergents, wetting agents and other reactive components. A large variety of excellent formulations are available, designed for specific applications. Proper selection is crucial for acceptable cleaning activity and to preclude undesirable reactivity with the part being cleaned. Your Bransonic® representative can help you to identify either the optimal 'stock' cleaning formula, or likely candidates to test and evaluate.
What cleaning solution shouldn't I use?
Flammables or solutions with low
flash points should never be used. The energy released by cavitation is
converted to heat and kinetic energy, generating high temperature gradients in
the solution, and can create hazardous conditions with flammable liquids.
Acids, bleach and bleach by-products should generally be avoided, but may be
used with indirect cleaning in a proper indirect cleaning container, such as a
glass beaker, and appropriate care. Acid and bleach will damage stainless steel
tanks, and/or create hazardous conditions.
Why is a special solution required
for cleaning?
Soils adhere to the parts... if they didn't, the soil would just fall off the parts! The purpose of the solution is to break the bonds between parts and their soils. Water alone has no cleaning properties. The primary purpose of the ultrasonic activity (cavitation) is to assist the solution in doing its job. An ultrasonic cleaning solution contains various ingredients designed to optimize the ultrasonic cleaning process. For example, increased cavitation levels result from reduced fluid surface tension. An ultrasonic solution will contain a good wetting agent or surfactant.
Soils adhere to the parts... if they didn't, the soil would just fall off the parts! The purpose of the solution is to break the bonds between parts and their soils. Water alone has no cleaning properties. The primary purpose of the ultrasonic activity (cavitation) is to assist the solution in doing its job. An ultrasonic cleaning solution contains various ingredients designed to optimize the ultrasonic cleaning process. For example, increased cavitation levels result from reduced fluid surface tension. An ultrasonic solution will contain a good wetting agent or surfactant.
When should solutions be changed?
Cleaning solutions should be
replenished when a noticeable decrease in cleaning action occurs, or when the
solution is visibly dirty or spent. A fresh batch of solution at each cleaning
session is usually not required.
What is the length of cleaning time?
Cleaning time will vary, depending on such things as soil, solution, temperature and the degree of cleanliness desired. Highly visible removal of soils should start almost immediately after the ultrasonic cleaning action begins. Cleaning time adjustment is the easiest (and most often misapplied) factor used to compensate for process variables. Although new application cycle duration can be approximated by an experienced operator, it usually must be validated by actual use with the chosen solution and the actual soiled parts.
Cleaning time will vary, depending on such things as soil, solution, temperature and the degree of cleanliness desired. Highly visible removal of soils should start almost immediately after the ultrasonic cleaning action begins. Cleaning time adjustment is the easiest (and most often misapplied) factor used to compensate for process variables. Although new application cycle duration can be approximated by an experienced operator, it usually must be validated by actual use with the chosen solution and the actual soiled parts.
What maintenance does my ultrasonic cleaner require?
All that is required is that after use you empty the tank of water and wipe clean. Because of the power of the cleaner if you were not to empty and wipe the tank then tiny metal particles will build up and over time could pierce a hole in the stainless steel water tank rendering the ultrasonic cleaner useless.
All that is required is that after use you empty the tank of water and wipe clean. Because of the power of the cleaner if you were not to empty and wipe the tank then tiny metal particles will build up and over time could pierce a hole in the stainless steel water tank rendering the ultrasonic cleaner useless.
Why do I need a timer on my ultrasonic cleaner?
The length of time you clean your item relates to the quality of the finish. In most cases 3 to 6 minutes is more than sufficient however some older items will need longer to clean. To keep the antique look on some types of jewellery a 3-minute clean would be all that is required.
The length of time you clean your item relates to the quality of the finish. In most cases 3 to 6 minutes is more than sufficient however some older items will need longer to clean. To keep the antique look on some types of jewellery a 3-minute clean would be all that is required.
How do I perform the "foil" test?
Cut three small pieces of aluminum foil about 4" x 8" each. Fold each piece over a rod that you will use to suspend the foil in the tank. A clothes hanger works well. Your cleaner should be filled with an ultrasonic cleaning solution, degassed, and brought up to normal operating temperature. Suspend the first "square" in the center of the tank and the other two a couple of inches from each end of the tank. Make sure that the tank is filled to the fill line, and turn on the ultrasonics for about ten minutes. Remove the foil and inspect: All three pieces of aluminum foil should be perforated and wrinkled to about the same degree.
Why must trays or beakers be used?
Items being cleaned should never be placed directly on the tank bottom. Transducers (which produce the ultrasound) are bonded to the bottom of the tank. Items resting directly on the tank bottom can damage the transducers and/or reduce cavitation. Additionally, a tray or beaker will position the item within the optimal cleaning zone of the tank. The tray or beaker will also hold the load together and allow for easy, no-touch removal, draining and transport of the items to the next step in the cleaning process.
Cut three small pieces of aluminum foil about 4" x 8" each. Fold each piece over a rod that you will use to suspend the foil in the tank. A clothes hanger works well. Your cleaner should be filled with an ultrasonic cleaning solution, degassed, and brought up to normal operating temperature. Suspend the first "square" in the center of the tank and the other two a couple of inches from each end of the tank. Make sure that the tank is filled to the fill line, and turn on the ultrasonics for about ten minutes. Remove the foil and inspect: All three pieces of aluminum foil should be perforated and wrinkled to about the same degree.
Why must trays or beakers be used?
Items being cleaned should never be placed directly on the tank bottom. Transducers (which produce the ultrasound) are bonded to the bottom of the tank. Items resting directly on the tank bottom can damage the transducers and/or reduce cavitation. Additionally, a tray or beaker will position the item within the optimal cleaning zone of the tank. The tray or beaker will also hold the load together and allow for easy, no-touch removal, draining and transport of the items to the next step in the cleaning process.
How do I perform the "glass slide" test?
Wet the frosted portion of a glass slide with tap water and draw an "X" with a No. 2 pencil from corner to corner of the frosted area. Making sure that the tank is filled to the fill line, immerse the frosted end of the slide into fresh cleaning solution. Turn on the ultrasonics. The lead "X" will begin to be removed almost immediately, and all lead should be removed within ten seconds.
Wet the frosted portion of a glass slide with tap water and draw an "X" with a No. 2 pencil from corner to corner of the frosted area. Making sure that the tank is filled to the fill line, immerse the frosted end of the slide into fresh cleaning solution. Turn on the ultrasonics. The lead "X" will begin to be removed almost immediately, and all lead should be removed within ten seconds.
What are "direct" and "indirect"
cleaning?
Direct cleaning occurs when the parts are cleaned in a cleaning solution which fills the cleaner, usually inside a perforated tray or mesh basket. The limitation of direct cleaning is that a solution must be chosen that will not damage the ultrasonic cleaner. Indirect cleaning involves placing the parts to be cleaned in an inner non-perforated tray or beaker that often contains a solution that the user may not want directly filling the ultrasonic tank. When choosing indirect cleaning, make sure that the water level inside the tank itself is maintained to the fill line (about 1" from the tank top) at all times.
Direct cleaning occurs when the parts are cleaned in a cleaning solution which fills the cleaner, usually inside a perforated tray or mesh basket. The limitation of direct cleaning is that a solution must be chosen that will not damage the ultrasonic cleaner. Indirect cleaning involves placing the parts to be cleaned in an inner non-perforated tray or beaker that often contains a solution that the user may not want directly filling the ultrasonic tank. When choosing indirect cleaning, make sure that the water level inside the tank itself is maintained to the fill line (about 1" from the tank top) at all times.
Is rinsing required after cleaning cycles?
Rinsing is recommended to remove any chemical residue, which could be harmful to the part. Parts can be rinsed right in your ultrasonic cleaner, using a clean water bath, or in a separate tub containing tap, distilled or deionized water.
Rinsing is recommended to remove any chemical residue, which could be harmful to the part. Parts can be rinsed right in your ultrasonic cleaner, using a clean water bath, or in a separate tub containing tap, distilled or deionized water.
Why shouldn't I leave my cleaner on constantly?
Low solution levels can seriously damage your cleaner. Running your unit continuously runs the strong risk of lowered levels as the solution evaporates, especially when heated. Getting into the habit of shutting off the ultrasonics when not in use, and monitoring the solution level when in use, will yield many years of trouble free service from your ultrasonic cleaner.
Low solution levels can seriously damage your cleaner. Running your unit continuously runs the strong risk of lowered levels as the solution evaporates, especially when heated. Getting into the habit of shutting off the ultrasonics when not in use, and monitoring the solution level when in use, will yield many years of trouble free service from your ultrasonic cleaner.
