Ultrasonic Technology - How Ultrasonic Cleaning Works

Ultrasonic cleaning is the rapid and complete removal of contaminants from objects by immersing them in a tank of liquid flooded with high frequency sounds waves. These non-audible sound waves create a scrubbing brush action within the fluid.
High Frequency Sound Waves The process is brought about by high frequency electrical energy that is converted by a transducer into high frequency sound waves – ultrasonic energy. Its ability to clean even the most tenacious substances from items derives from the core of the unit: the transducer. The cleaning power of a unit stems from the transducers performance. The efficiency of the transducer will affect both the cleaning time and efficacy achieved during the cleaning cycle. A poor quality transducer will use more power and take longer to clean items than a good transducer. This is why Ultrawave have invested in this area in such great depth, in order to provide you with a benchmark transducer.		The ultrasonic energy enters the liquid within the tank and causes the rapid formation and collapse of minute bubbles: a phenomenon known as cavitation. The bubbles, travel at high speed around the tank causing them to implode against the surface of the item immersed in the tank in an enormous energy release, which gently lifts contamination off the surface and innermost recesses of intricately shaped parts. It is this ability to clean box joints, hinges and threads quickly and effectively that has made ultrasonic cleaners the first choice for many industries for over 25 years. There are many variables which need taking into account when cleaning items. Heat, power, frequency, detergent type and time all affect the cleaning process but the flexibility of ultrasonics means that these can all incorporated into the process in order to achieve the most effective results.

		Ultrasonic Cleaning in Action This photograph (left) shows Ultrasonic cleaning in action on a pair of surgical forceps. The formation of bubbles can be clearly seen forming around the item. As the bubbles implode and cavitation occurs, the cleaning solution rushes into the gap left by the bubble. As this fluid makes contact with the forceps, any contaminants that are present are removed.