An ultrasonic cleaner is commonly used to remove contaminants from intricate componentry that is difficult to clean with a cloth and elbow grease, such as bike gears, jewellery or heavily greased machinery parts. The ultrasonic cleaner is used for everything from Venetian blinds to robots that clean nuclear waste so let’s understand the Common Uses for Ultrasonic Cleaners.
What are the Common Uses for Ultrasonic Cleaners?
If a substance can be removed from an item, it can be removed with an ultrasonic cleaner.
How does the Ultrasonic Cleaner work?
High-frequency sound waves agitate a liquid solution inside a tank. The sonic energy creates a void (or cavity) in the shape of a bubble within the aqueous solution in a process called acoustic cavitation. The enormous force created when the bubbles burst knocks any contaminant off the item, providing a thorough clean on every part of the surface.
A stainless steel tank sits inside the machine which is filled with the appropriate liquid and a basket or jewellery holder in different shapes and sizes is available as an accessory. Control levels allow users to choose from delicate to more robust cleaning according to the item.
Common Uses for Ultrasonic Cleaners
- For cycle enthusiasts, the cleaner makes short work of removing dirt and grime from individual bike parts and keeps degreaser away from bearings.
- Musical instruments such as brass and woodwind instruments can be quickly and efficiently cleaned with a dip in the ultrasonic cleaning tank. The acoustic cavitation process thoroughly cleans inside and outside the instrument, including tubing, valves, mouthpiece and keys removing all contaminants and dirt
- Electronic componentry can be safely and meticulously cleaned of dirt, grease and residues in the ultrasonic cleaner. This includes power circuit boards.
- Metal manufacturers commonly use an ultrasonic cleaner to remove contaminants from their tools and instruments as well as clean the finished product.
- Medical and dental instruments are given a robust clean in the ultrasonic cleaner before being separately sterilised. This allows a much more efficient sterilisation process and improves safety and hygiene for all staff and customers.
- Bodywork specialists get their airbrushes, paint spray guns and other equipment down to ground zero after every job, extending the life of their equipment with a non-abrasive but detailed cleanse.
The key to optimal cleaning with an ultrasonic cleaner is to follow the manufacturing instructions precisely and to use the correct aqueous solution for the item being cleaned. Solvent-based liquids are required to removed certain contaminants, while water-based is suitable for others. Manufacturers offer alkaline and solvent-based solutions that are non-toxic and less volatile than chlorinated or hydrocarbon solvents, and will still remove oils, grease, dirt and carbon residues. Solutions can be used on all metals, plastics rubber and glass and electronic components including circuit boards and production equipment.
Ultrasonic cleaners are used in many industries for aerospace and defence parts and equipment through to surgical instruments. They can be used to remove soot from smoke damaged items, or engine grime from machine parts. With sizes ranging from three-litre to 30 litres and more, there is an ultrasonic cleaner available for every job.
