Laboratory Equipment

It’s important to have an effective cleaning process established in your laboratory. A laboratory ultrasonic cleaner is an effective solution for lab applications such as solvent degassing, sample preparation, and the cleaning of lab equipment.

There are many different types of ultrasonic cleaners. The different cleaners are designed for specific applications and come in different sizes, configurations, and with various features. Here, we’ll give you some guidance on what to look for when purchasing a lab ultrasonic cleaner.

What is a laboratory ultrasonic cleaner?

A lab ultrasonic cleaner is a device that uses high-frequency sound waves to agitate the liquid in the device so that it acts as a scrubbing agent. The cleaner itself consists of a cleaning tank that houses the fluid and object to be cleaned. The ultrasonic generator converts the AC electrical energy to the ultrasonic frequency. The ultrasonic transducer transforms the electrical signal to mechanical energy. All cleaners come with a digital timer with a degasser and heater as optional functions. A degasser eliminates trapped glasses in the cleaner.

Ultrasonic cleaners can be used for many different applications across various industries. It cleans objects of every shape, size, and just about every type of material. Ultrasonic cleaners are more efficient and faster than traditional cleaning methods. Typical cleaning times for a lab ultrasonic cleaner ranges anywhere from three to six minutes. Cleaning time is dependent upon the material and the contaminant.

How does an ultrasonic cleaner work?

A lab ultrasonic cleaner uses high-frequency sound waves to agitate the liquid. The high-frequency sound waves pass through the liquid and cause tiny bubbles to form on the surface of the material being cleaned and then eventually pop. The force from this process causes contaminants to dislodge from the surface.

Some of the contaminants that are targeted include dirt, dust, fingerprints, bacteria, blood, mold, oil, grease, polish, and lubricants. Ultrasonic cleaners are very useful in cleaning contaminants in hard-to-reach areas such as cracks, recesses, and holes. The heat can be increased to loosen chemical bonds and contaminants faster. The heat in these cleaners usually range from 135℉ to 150℉.

What solution is used for laboratory ultrasonic cleaning?

Ultrasonic cleaners can be used with just water. However, solvents that are compatible with the object being cleaned and the contaminant being targeted is also another option. Solvents contain ingredients that make the cleaning process even more effective. The acidity and pH level needs to be compatible with the material being cleaned since discoloration and mineral deposits can occur.

What fluid can be used in an ultrasonic cleaner?

To enhance the cleaning performance of the ultrasonic cleaner, you should first use deionized water. Deionized water is a natural solvent and is recommended because it doesn’t contain mineral salts or other impurities. This natural solvent is particularly effective on metals, fabrics, glass, plastics, and rubber.

What is the best solution to use in an ultrasonic cleaner?

Two solutions that work well in the ultrasonic cleaning process are Liquinox and Alconox. They are both concentrated anionic detergents designed especially for the ultrasonic cleaning process. Alconox comes in a powdered form and Liquinox comes in liquid form. These two detergents are particularly effective in cleaning plastic, metal, and glass.

Where Can You Buy Ultrasonic Cleaners?

Lab Pro offers a large variety of chemicals and laboratory supplies. For over 40 years, Lab Pro Inc. has been committed to delivering the highest quality lab ultrasonic cleaners, microscopes, chemicals, tweezers, hard-wire cutters, lab supplies, and cleanroom PPE apparel to medical device and electronic manufacturing companies and laboratories worldwide. To learn more, visit the biggest Lab Supply showroom in California, or contact us online at 888-452-2776.