How Does Ultrasonic Cleaning Work?
Ultrasonic cleaning technology has been around for many years and is used in a variety of industries for cleaning all sorts of items, from medical instruments to electronic components. Ultrasonic cleaners are popular due to their ability to clean items quickly and thoroughly, using only water and a small amount of specialist detergent.
An ultrasonic cleaner works by using high-frequency sound waves to create cavitation bubbles in a liquid. This process is also known as sonication. The cavitation bubbles created by the ultrasonic waves are incredibly small and when they collapse, they create a powerful scrubbing action that is hugely effective at removing dirt and build-up. This action is able to remove dirt, grease and other contaminants from items quickly and easily, resulting in a more effective and thorough clean as opposed to traditional methods.
There are several ultrasonic cleaning machines available, all suited to different industries and functions. In this blog, we’re going to discuss the different ultrasonic machines and what they are used for.
Ultrasonic cleaners provide effective cleaning for a variety of products, including incredibly dainty and fragile items. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used to clean a huge selection of items, including:
- Optical lens
- Contact lenses
- Jewellery
- Watches
- Coins
- Dentures
- Medical instruments
- Tattoo equipment
- Electronic components
- Car engine parts
Different Types Of Ultrasonic Cleaners:
There are different types of ultrasonic cleaners on the market, each designed for specific cleaning tasks. The different types of ultrasonic cleaners available are:
Industrial ultrasonic cleaners
Industrial ultrasonic cleaners are designed for heavy duty cleaning tasks and are often used in engineering and manufacturing settings. They are also used to clean medical instruments and electronic components, such as circuit boards. These ultrasonic cleaners are usually much larger in size compared to other models, making them ideal for cleaning large items or quantities.
Automated ultrasonic cleaners
Automated ultrasonic cleaners are designed for use in industries where items need to be cleaned quickly and efficiently. These ultrasonic cleaners can be programmed to clean a variety of items, making them ideal for busy settings. Automated ultrasonic cleaners are often used in medical and dental settings, as well as in the food and beverage industry to clean glassware and utensils. Automated cleaners can be left on to clean and the whole process will automate itself.
The automated features of this machine range include auto load/unload stations, which ensure that components are loaded as smoothly as possible. The part responsible for this smooth transition is called a PLC-controlled overhead basket transfer system, which works by using a specialised basket recognition system to move the baskets safely from one stage to the next. The whole process is continuous, which reduces labour costs whilst increasing levels of output.
Benchtop ultrasonic cleaner
Benchtop ultrasonic cleaners are small and compact, making them ideal for use in settings where space is limited. As the name suggests, they can fit comfortably on a benchtop. These ultrasonic cleaners are typically used to clean smaller items, such as jewellery and coins.
The ultrasonic bench top unit generates a frequency between 28 – 40 kHz. The power is controlled by a three-way switch that allows operators to choose between 50%, 75% or 100% power – depending on the desired application of the machine. The ultrasonic transducers themselves are made with specialty ceramics to produce high efficiency piezoelectric currents.
These ultrasonic cleaners are typically used to clean smaller items such as:
- Small machine components
- Electronic assembly systems
- Surgical instrument cleaning
- Dental surgery equipment
- Brass clock part cleaning
- Intricate castings
- Optic laboratory equipment
- Micro electronics
- Jewellery cleaning
Multi-stage ultrasonic cleaner
Multi-stage ultrasonic cleaners are designed for use in industrial settings where a variety of items need to be cleaned. These ultrasonic cleaners have different cleaning tanks, each with its own function. For example, one tank may be used for rinsing while another is used for cleaning. This allows for a more efficient cleaning process as items can be moved seamlessly from one tank to the next.
Multi-stage 2 – Wash & Rinse Stage (with Optional Dry)
Multi-stage ultrasonic cleaning equipment allows the user the flexibility of having an ultrasonic wash stage, followed by a rinse facility, and for some applications, the option of a drying stage.
The wash stage removes all types of contaminants. This includes carbonised deposits, polishing compounds, blazing flux, swarf, oils, solders flux, and even strips of wax or paint.
If it’s required, you then have the option to transfer your parts into a drying stage. This ensures all the components leave the machine clean and dry.
Features:
- 40L – 160L tank size
- Manufactured from 316-grade stainless steel
- 75 kW – 2 kW heating capacity
- 28 – 40 kHz ultrasonic frequency
Multi-stage 4
For cleaning applications that demand an exceptionally intensive precision clean, there is the option of a fully integrated multi-stage ultrasonic wash. Multi-stage ultrasonic washes can incorporate 4 separate stages or more. These stages can vary greatly depending on the cleaning application required.
Their stages include a pre-wash with heavy-duty cleaning, a heated main rinse, ultrasonic wash, and the option for a single or double-capacity hot air dry.
Features:
- 4 stages of cleaning
- 40L – 160L tank size
- Manufactured from 316-grade stainless steel
- 75 kW – 2 kW heating capacity
- 28 – 40 kHz ultrasonic frequency
Submersible ultrasonic cleaner
Submersible ultrasonic cleaners are designed to be used in settings where items need to be cleaned in a completely submerged environment. These ultrasonic cleaners typically have a small tank that can be filled with liquid. The item to be cleaned is then placed inside the tank and the ultrasonic waves generated by the machine clean the item. Submersible ultrasonic cleaners are often used to clean delicate items. Submersibles are used to monitor power output and ensure levels are not exceeded within the tank it has been specifically tuned to. This prolongs the life of the ultrasonic tanks.
Due to the freestanding qualities of submersible ultrasonic cleaners, they offer the ultimate level of flexibility out of all the unit types. Most submersible units range from 8-25 transducers, offering a maximum total of 3000peak/1500 HF power rating.
Ultrasonic cleaning generators
Ultrasonic cleaning generators are the core of ultrasonic cleaning machines. They generate ultrasonic waves that are used to clean items. Different models of ultrasonic cleaning generator are available, each with its own set of features.
Finding The Right Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine
No matter your needs, there is an ultrasonic cleaning machine available that can help you with your cleaning needs. Read our Buying Guide to learn more about finding the right ultrasonic cleaning machine.
At EJ Ultrasonics we carry a wide variety of cleaning machines to suit the needs of personal and domestic requirements, as well as larger, industrial, and commercial requirements. Ultrasonic cleaners are incredibly beneficial and can clean items more thoroughly than any other cleaning method. If you are unsure whether or not an ultrasonic cleaner is for you, you can rent one for a period of time with the option to buy one at the end.
If you would like to know more about our services, the products we offer, and what EJ Ultrasonics can do for you, please get in touch.
