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Process Cleaning Magazine
© 2012
AMT-The Association For Manufacturing Technology
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Q.I have three tanks that were sonic, but the generator is missing. Is sonic better than aqueous cleaning? I was going to try and convert these tanks to aqueous steam cleaners if that is possible. Thanks. S.S.
A. Generally, ultrasonic cleaning is not directly compared with aqueous cleaning since ultrasonic technology can be used for several different modes of cleaning including aqueous, semi-aqueous, solvent cleaning (including vapor and vacuum degreasing). So the question really isn’t “is it better than” aqueous, but can it provide a benefit over aqueous cleaning alone?
In most cases, ultrasonic cleaning can provide an advantage to overall parts cleanliness, particularly those with complex shapes, recesses and blind holes. While the solution will enter all these crevices, any external agitation by pumps, eductors or spraying will be of limited value in these blind spots. However, the ultrasonics can provide a mechanical energy of impact through the creation and implosion of tiny bubbles formed by the ultrasonic wave transmitted through the liquid. This implosion is of locally high energy (increased temperature and pressure) and will provide good assistance for the lift and removal of contamination from the base metal.
Ultrasonics come in a variety of different frequencies. The lower frequency will produce a lower “density” of implosions, but at an increase energy level. The higher frequency will create more implosions, but of lower energy level. Steam cleaners are usually designed and built as a spray wand system with a steam generator that may or may not have a cleaner to it. I would suggest contacting an ultrasonics manufacturer and ask if they can simply retrofit the existing tanks with generators.