Posted By: Cole-Parmer Blog TeamApril 10, 2014
Ultrasonic Cleaners use cavitation, created by ultrasonic waves, to scrub objects made of nonabsorbent materials in the research, pharmaceutical, printing, electronics, engineering, and automotive industries. Higher frequency models clean more gently, precisely, and reliably. Some cleaners offer digital timers, power tracking, sleep mode, and other features for critical cleaning applications.
Cole-Parmer® Ultrasonic Cleaner with Digital Timer and Heater, 3/4 Gallon
Operating ultrasonic cleaners effectively requires selecting the appropriate solution. What gets in the way of optimal performance? Our technical application specialists advise to avoid the following when using an ultrasonic cleaner:
- Do not place parts or containers directly on the bottom of the cleaning tank—use a tray or wire to suspend items.
- Don’t allow the cleaning solution level to drop more than one inch below the top of the tank.
- Never use alcohol, gasoline, or flammable solutions. Doing so could cause a fire or explosion. Use only water-based solutions.
- Do not ever use mineral acids. These could damage the tank.
- Failure to comply with these cautions will void your warranty.
Decreased cavitation or cleaning action can result if:
- The cleaner is not full enough (always follow directions about how full one should fill the cleaner)
- One is using water or some other cleaning agent that is not intended for use as an ultrasonic cleaning solution. Also, even with a good cleaning solution, the solution has to be degassed by running the cleaner for approximately 10 minutes prior to use. Otherwise you will also get decreased cavitation.
You can test the cavitation of your ultrasonic cleaner by performing an aluminum foil test: Suspend a small piece of aluminum foil in your cleaner and run for about three minutes. If the cleaner is working properly, the foil should be dimpled or may even have holes. If not, see the guidance above for actions that can cause decreased cavitation.
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Related
FAQs
Don't allow the cleaning solution level to drop more than one inch below the top of the tank. Never use alcohol, gasoline, or flammable solutions. Doing so could cause a fire or explosion.
What shouldn't you put in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
The Don'ts
On a similar note, don't spray down the outside of the tank, control box, or electrical box with water or other liquids. If the outside gets dirty, unplug the unit and wipe it down with a clean rag. Never fill the tank of an ultrasonic cleaner with alcohol, gasoline, or any other flammable liquids.
What stones should not be put in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Gemstones that are not translucent, such as pearls, opals or onyx, should, as a general rule, not be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner or cleaned with an abrasive or ammonia based cleaner.
What are the disadvantages of ultrasonic cleaners? ›
Ultrasonic cleaning can cause damage to some items. The high-frequency sound waves can cause vibrations that may dislodge stones, loosen or damage solder, or even cause the item to crack. Therefore, it is essential to use caution when cleaning items with an ultrasonic cleaner.
What jewelry cannot be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner is suitable for diamonds, platinum, and gold jewelry but not for Gemstones such as emeralds, rubies, emeralds, opals, malachite, etc.; organic gemstones such as pearls, corals, and emeralds.
Can you use Dawn dish soap in ultrasonic jewelry cleaner? ›
Rule of thumb is to not use any liquid that is considered flammable such as alcohol. Another option is using mild dish detergent, this will help break down oils which may make deposits harder to clean with water alone.
What are the hazards of ultrasonic cleaning? ›
Potential Risks Associated:
- Material Damage: Delicate items may be susceptible to damage from the force of cavitation.
- Incompatibility: Not all materials are suitable for ultrasonic cleaning.
- Safety Concerns: The cleaning solution used may pose health risks if not handled properly.
Jewelers use ultrasonic cleaners for most gemstones, but never for an emerald. The vibrations and chemicals used to remove dirt and debris from a diamond ring, for instance, could remove all the cedar-oil from an emerald. Never put an emerald in an ultrasonic cleaner!
What liquid should I use in my ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Deionized Water
While detergents can help in the ultrasonic cleaning process, they are not always necessary. In some cases, deionized water is acceptable and may be advisable. Deionized water is safe to use on almost any material that can be safely submerged in water.
What are the cons of ultrasonic? ›
Disadvantages of Ultrasonic Testing Techniques:
- Training is more extensive than other methods.
- More expensive than other methods.
- Difficult to use on thin materials.
- Part Geometry can cause complications.
- Needs relatively smooth surface to couple transducer.
If you take care of the machine properly, using best practices to clean the different parts, this piece of equipment can last for decades.
Are there any side effects of ultrasonic cleaning? ›
There are no known adverse effects of ultrasonic teeth cleaning at the moment. In fact, many dentists prefer ultrasonic teeth cleaning over manual teeth cleaning because it is a less invasive and less damaging process than the traditional teeth scaling process.
What should you never put in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
What Not To Do With Ultrasonic Cleaners
- Do not place parts or containers directly on the bottom of the cleaning tank—use a tray or wire to suspend items.
- Don't allow the cleaning solution level to drop more than one inch below the top of the tank.
- Never use alcohol, gasoline, or flammable solutions.
Organic gemstones, such as pearl, mother of pearl, coral, amber, ivory and jet, are very soft and porous. They should never be put into an ultrasonic cleaner because organic gemstones can easily get dissolved by heat and vibrations. The best way to clean them is to use warm soapy water.
What do jewelers use in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Using ultrasound waves and chemicals, this jewellery cleaning machine can remove foreign particles such as dirt, oil and tarnish, as well as polishing compounds such as Tripoli and rouge from delicate jewellery pieces.
What can I not clean in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Ultrasonics is great for cleaning many metals except for tungsten and thin aluminum. Most aluminum products are thicker but ultrasonics can damage thinner items. Rubber items do not clean well in ultrasonics, you can clean light residue and dust with a 60 second cleaning any longer can damage the item.
What solution should I use in my ultrasonic cleaner? ›
We recommend UP 132-B, a mild phosphoric acid solution designed to safely clean at low temperatures. This environmentally-friendly detergent is commonly used on brass instruments but is suitable for many other applications. It's compatible with copper, aluminum, stainless steel, bronze, plastics, glass, and ceramics.
What chemical can you use in a ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Isopropyl Alcohol Ultrasonic Cleaner Solutions
These solvents are popular for cleaning and degreasing a wide range of materials, from printed circuit boards (PCBs) to medical instruments.
Can I put hydrogen peroxide in an ultrasonic cleaner? ›
Studies have shown that hydrogen peroxide is a highly reactive substance which can damage soft and hard oral tissues when used incorrectly. Additionally, there is some evidence that peroxides can damage ultrasonic cleaner components.
