What Not To Do With Ultrasonic Cleaners

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.

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.