Ultrasonic cleaning units need to be operated at certain specified frequencies for their correct care and maintenance. As with any machine there are a number of factors that may affect its performance. The frequency and duration of the sonicator varies depending on the manufacturer and the brand. Ultrasonic cleaners work on the principle of cavitation. Transducers that are fixed on the sides of the stainless steel tank of the cleaning chamber of the cleaner resonate at a frequency that is directly proportional to the power supplied through the electric motor. These ultrasonic waves agitate water or the solvent based cleaning agent that is poured into the cleaning tank to form scrubbing bubbles. These power packed high energy bubbles collide with the surface of the objects or equipment that is placed in the chamber for ultrasonic cleaning.

Any damage to the transducers might weaken the ultrasonic cleaner machine. Ideally, the basket that is sold with the ultrasonic cleaner for cleaning jewelry and other delicate objects must be suspended in the cleaning solution. However, if the basket touches the bottom or the sides of the chamber, it might weaken the ultrasonic cleaner. The transducers used in the ultrasonic cleaner may have hairline fractures. They’re made of ceramic and prone to breakage if not handled carefully. So, damaged transducers can also weaken ultrasonic cleaning machines. The contact point between the transducer and the cleaning tank also might be faulty. They’re usually connected through the process of mechanical coupling. Certain synthetic resins are used to connect the transducers with the cleaning chamber of the cleaner. At times, the oscillator circuit that is installed in the transducers may have to be tuned to match the power supply. Though new ultrasonic cleaner have transducers that are in sync with the electric power supplied, frequent use of the cleaner over a prolonged period of time may throw the oscillator circuit off gear. Retuning the mechanism may fix this problem.

There are a large number of factors that come into play during the cleaning process using ultrasonic technology. The cleaner has many variable controls that need to be operated properly for effective cleaning. The cleaning solution used in the cleaning tank must be chosen carefully. The wrong cleaning detergent can weaken the ultrasonic cleaner machine. Each machine needs a cleaning agent that is acidic, alkaline, mildly alkaline or neutral. Using the wrong solvent in an ultrasonic cleaner can weaken the cleaning efficacy of the cleaner and can even damage the cleaner permanently. It affects the process of cavitation that is required for the production of the scrubbing bubbles. The solution has to be preheated to a set temperature before starting the process of ultrasonic cleaning. If you don’t give the cleaning equipment the time it needs to reach the desired temperature for proper functioning, it not only results in poor cleaning but also harms the internal components of the ultrasonic cleaner. The operation manual mentions the temperature details for the proper functioning of the cleaner. If these aren’t provided, the cleaner must be tested multiple times to check the optimal temperature of operation.

Author Bio: Dr. Bob Sandor is a Director at Tovatech, a leading North American supplier of ultrasonic cleaners. When not busy running his company, he explores his fascination with the many aspects of various scientific & industrial devices. For more details on the above you can reach him through the ultrasonic cleaner section of his website.

Category: Advice
Keywords: ultrasonic cleaner,ultrasonic cleaning,cause of weak ultrasonic cleaner,sonicator