Ultrasonic cleaning is a popular method to clean from surgical equipment to firearms and is a favorite for industrial purposes. The method uses high-frequency sound waves transmitting through a liquid to rid the part of contaminants. However, there are several myths around the process which make people give ultrasonic cleaners a miss. The article will tackle some of these debunking myths about ultrasonic cleaning that will help you better understand the process.
Table of Contents
1. They are not effective
Some people believe that ultrasonic cleaners do not actually work and are overhyped. The process has proven itself time and again and is very effective in removing tough contaminants.
The myth could be due to some stray bad experiences with the process. Perhaps the device and solvent used were not the right matches for the parts. To get the best results, ensure that you get the right cleaner and solution.
Some cleaners are made for industrial purposes while others are made for domestic purposes. Similarly, different cleaning solutions are used for varying degrees of dirt. In addition to this, the right temperature and frequency will also have an impact on the end result. Before getting an ultrasonic cleaner, ensure that you know which type suits your needs.
2. They can destroy equipment
Due to the high frequency used, some people think that an ultrasonic cleaner can harm the equipment or parts meant to be cleaned. In fact, once configured properly, the cleaning tools do not destroy or harm the parts.
The process merely creates microscopic bubbles that get rid of contaminants from the surface. They can even get into smaller cracks but rarely have the power to completely dislodge the parts of the equipment meant to be cleaned.
3. You can’t clean aluminum
People think that aluminum will not survive inside an ultrasonic cleaner. However, this is not true. Ultrasonic cleaners are your best bet for removing dirt from all types of metals which includes aluminum, steel, and magnesium.
Even metals like brass and titanium can be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner. The main thing here is to use the right solvent for each metal type. The pH level of the cleaning solution should match the metal type.
4. It always uses water
While ultrasonic cleaners do use water, you do need stronger solutions when dealing with tougher stains. The solvents help loosen the dirt particles and improve the cleaning process.
Solutions can vary from alkaline to acidic to high caustic solutions. It depends on the contaminants and the nature of the equipment being cleaned.
5. You need to clean it more than once for best results
Typically, ultrasonic cleaning lasts between three to six minutes depending on the equipment and nature of contaminants. However, it can even take up to 20 minutes for some parts. For example, industrial equipment will take longer than cleaning a piece of jewelry.
Once the item has been cleaned thoroughly, extra cleaning cycles will not affect it anymore. Make sure you take a look at what the manufacturer recommends for cleaning different items.
6. They are complicated to use
While the process behind ultrasonic cleaners is complex, you do need any special technical background to use them. It is an easy-to-use cleaner that can be used by everyone.
Just fill-up the tank with the right solution, put in the equipment you want to clean and turn the power on. There are some simple precautions that you need to follow that are readily present in the manual. The only “complicated” part is getting the configurations right.
7. They are harmful to those operating it
There is no basis for this myth and so far, there has been no scientific evidence to support it. Many people believe that the high frequency used by ultrasonic cleaners may cause damage to those operating it but there are no known effects.
They are completely safe for use and are commonly used across industries and even at home. Till now, there has been no evidence of its direct effect on the health of the operators. As long as you follow the manual, there is no reason for worry.
Bottomline
Most myths around ultrasonic cleaning are not based on facts but on rumors that have gained momentum over the years. While some others originate from an odd bad experience due to poor configuration or solution used.
The main takeaway is that ultrasonic cleaners are safe to use and are effective against contaminants. From industrial cleaning to surgical equipment to making your old jewelry look sparkly again, they are an effective cleaning tool.
The key thing to note here is to use the right type of ultrasonic cleaner, solution, and configuration. These will depend on what you want to clean and the nature of the contaminant. Refer to the manual and always reach out to a professional in case the equipment glitches.
