Frequently Asked Question on Ultrasonic Cleaning
1. Do large machines clean better than small ones?
2. Can I use water alone in my machine?
3. Is heat required?
4. How often does solution have to be changed?
5. What is an EMI Filter?
6. What is your Quality Assurance Program?
1. Do large machines clean better than small ones?
All L&R Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems have similar cleaning abilities regardless of the tank size. This is due to the fact that the amount of ultrasonic power generated is proportional to tank dimensions.
You will notice a difference in cleaning ability with larger Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems when the size of the object(s) being cleaned becomes disproportionately smaller than the tank size. The dimensions of the tank ultimately chosen should be proportional to the size and mass of the object(s) you are going to clean. Avoid overloading, which reduces cleaning efficiency and may increase cleaning time.
L&R manufactures certain machines with the same internal tank dimensions but have different frequencies (such as the Quantrex 140, and 2014). The 2014 Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine was designed for a more exacting cleaning process. The frequency of the 2014 creates a tighter, smaller cleaning bubble which is able to penetrate extremely small cracks, crevices and hidden areas more easily than other units.
2. Can I use water alone in my machine?
Water should never be used alone in the Ultrasonic Cleaning System. The use of a cleaning solution such as L&R's General Purpose Cleaner Non-ammoniated (or any one of our aqueous-based cleaners), when properly diluted, effectively reduces the surface tension of the solution and increases ultrasonic cavitation. The increase in cavitation enhances the overall cleaning ability of the process.
3. Is heat required?
The use of a heater is generally recommended for jewelry, industrial applications and dental laboratories. The addition of heat helps soften and breakdown materials such as waxes and similar compounds for a quicker cleaning cycle. These materials would ultimately be removed at a slower rate without using heat.
It is generally not necessary to use heat in medical fields, such as dental, as there is no measurable improvement in the cleaning ability or time when heat is applied.
Remember, heat is a separate function and cannot be added to an existing machine. Therefore, if there is a possibility that the need for a heated unit may arise later, it would be wise to invest in a heated machine now.
4. How often does solution have to be changed?
The frequency with which you change your solution depends on the use of your machine.
For the medical fields (including dental), it is recommended to discard your solution at least once a day for instrument cleaning and after every use when performing a specialized cleaning task. This is to further reduce the chance of cross-contamination in the office or laboratory.
For other industries, such as the jewelry, industrial and optical fields, you should change your solution when the cleaning cycle time increases and/or when the objects are no longer meeting your cleaning requirements.
5. What is an EMI Filter?
The EMI Filter is an electronic noise suppressor required by the Federal Communication Commission (see Part 18 of FCC Rules and Regulations). This filter acts as a barrier to radio frequency interference which can cause disruption of other electronic devices within your work area, including computer and phone systems.
L&R Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems contain this EMI Filter as a standard feature.
6. What is your Quality Assurance Program?
We put every machine through a series of rigorous tests, to insure that it meets or exceeds our rigid standards, which are the most stringent in the industry. Every new L&R machine is accompanied by the Quality Assurance Program seal, assuring you that it is worthy of the L&R name.
Our research and development team continuously seeks new and innovative ways to maximize the effectiveness of our machines, solutions and accessories, so we may provide you with the best products possible. Our goal is to remain in the forefront of the industry, by further advancing ultrasonic cleaning technology.The L&R Quality Assurance Program and Research and Development effort are ways in which L&R works harder, to remain your choice for reliable, quality Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems
©L&R Manufacturing Company