What Provides the Best Results – Agitation or Ultrasonic Cleaning?

While both agitation cleaning and industrial ultrasonic cleaners work on the same basic principle, their applications and level of efficiency are otherwise different.

Agitation cleaning is best suited for hard metal objects and machine parts that are made of steel or brass. In agitation cleaning, parts are placed in a chemical bath on a moving platform. As the platform moves, the agitation action circulates the cleaning agent so that it comes to contact with the bulk of the parts to remove dirt and contamination.

In ultrasonic cleaning sound waves are utilized to agitate the cleaning liquid at an ultrasonic frequency range created by ultrasonic generators. When such high-frequency waves pass through the liquid, the agitation gives rise to millions of microscopic cavitation bubbles. These bubbles form and collapse quickly, with each implosion sending forth shockwaves over narrower, minute areas. Upon contact with the surface of the parts being cleaned, these shockwaves emit so much power and force that they efficiently remove surface contamination. The cleaning action makes ultrasonic cleaning systems ideal for cleaning a wide variety of parts made of different materials.

What is the most effective cleaning method? The answer depends on several factors including what kind of part is being cleaned. Agitation cleaning is suitable for cleaning hard and heavy parts, but typically it takes more time to clean and can’t be used on more delicate parts. Ultrasonic cleaning can clean a much wider variety of parts from hard and robust parts to more delicate ones much faster without the use of chemicals.

While agitation cleaning usually costs less, there are other expenses that need to be considered such as the use of chemicals, production cost, energy cost and employee time spent, etc. An ultrasonic cleaning system may be more expensive upon purchase, but in the long run, it will save you more money but cutting down production time and use of chemicals and detergents. When all things are considered, industrial ultrasonic cleaning systems will clean parts more effectively in less time which provides the best cost-effective option for most business operations.

Read the complete article, “What Provides the Best Results - Agitation or Ultrasonic Cleaning?” for more details on comparing ultrasonic cleaning with agitation cleaning. Contact Kaijo from a free quote or consultation at info@kaijo-shibuya.com or 408-675-5575 to discuss your requirements.

How an Ultrasonic Cleaner is Configured for Different Cleaning Application

From delicate parts to large machined components, the job of an industrial ultrasonic parts cleaner can be challenging and complicated largely due to different cleaning needs. The best manufacturers offer both standard and customized solutions, with components which can be mixed and matched to any specific needs.

The essential components that are selected for configuring ultrasonic parts cleaners consist of:

1) Generator – creates and amplifies an ultrasonic signal;
2) Transducer – creates physical ultrasonic sound waves from the signal created;
3) Cleaning bath – holds the parts or items that need to be cleaned.

Each of these parts is selected at the configuration stage. Custom features can also be added to these standard components as well in order to meet specific customer’s needs.

When configuring an ultrasonic cleaner, the first step is to look at the cleaning requirements which are usually described by the customer. Then, the design personnel determines the specific equipment needed to meet those requirements, depending on the various factors that include the nature of the contamination and the material of the part being cleaned. Other variables including the size of the parts being cleaned are also considered. For instance, for a single-use application, a low-frequency generator may be used; in the case of larger cleaning baths, multiple transducers can be installed to achieve optimum cleaning performance.

Once the design characteristics are determined, the designers start to look at the kind of transducers to use – there are immersible, mounted and bolt-on varieties – which can be used for different cleaning needs. For example, if the bath to use is an existing tank at the customer's own facility, an immersible transducer is ideal to use. There are also other customizable options which include mounts, a heater and the use of the resonance system, among others.

Companies that need either standard or customized ultrasonic parts cleaners should read the complete article titled “How an Ultrasonic Cleaner Is Configured for Different Cleaning Applications.” Contact Kaijo Shibuya at 408-675-5575 or info@kaijo-shibuya.com for a free quote or consultation to discuss your specific cleaning application.

How Ultrasonic Cleaners Provide Green Industrial Cleaning

As chemicals and their safe handing have increased in cost, industrial ultrasonic cleaners provide an ideal alternative that offers substantial savings while reducing negative environmental effects. Ultrasonic cleaners rely on the mechanical scrubbing action of microscopic cavitation bubbles to remove contaminants from the surfaces of the parts being cleaned rather than using harsh chemicals. This cleaning method is completely and does not require the use of harsh or toxic chemicals.

Traditional industrial cleaning methods are costly and time-consuming. In addition, they are generally not environmentally-friendly because they rely on the action of harsh cleaning chemicals to clean parts and components. Various acids or strong solvents are used in the cleaning process, depending on application requirements. After the cleaning application is completed, the chemical wastes need to be neutralized and disposed of in an acceptable manner. Adding to the cost of the traditional industrial cleaning processes are stringent health and safety measures (such as ventilation standards).

The advantages of Industrial ultrasonic cleaners include rapid and effective cleaning and the ability to clean inaccessible places. The use of ultrasonic cleaning also provides a safer, healthier workplace and a more environmentally friendly operation. These aspects provide additional cost advantages.

Since chemicals no longer are required, the extensive chemical handling infrastructure for traditional industrial cleaning methods is eliminated. Toxic and harsh chemicals also have special storage requirements and spills can be expensive. In addition, chemical mixing and delivery to cleaning tanks can are hazardous and the systems that provide this are expensive to set up and maintain. After use, the chemical waste must be neutralized and safely disposed to meet requirements which have become increasingly costly.

Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaners provide a flexible solution which allows customers to meet the needs of a wide variety of cleaning applications. Using their complete line of ultrasonic cleaning systems and equipment, Kaijo can provide recommendations on a specific system or combination of system components to meet the specific needs of a customer.


The complete article, “How Ultrasonic Cleaners Provide Green Industrial Cleaning” explains more about the benefits of using ultrasonic cleaners. For a free consultation or quote call 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How Ultrasonic Cleaners Provide Effective Cleaning Before Plating or Coating

Ultrasonic parts cleaners are the ideal choice for cleaning metal or plastic parts that will be plated or coated. Parts often have contaminants as a result of machining, buffing compound, or shop dirt. Surface parts that are contaminated will encounter problems with adhesion when they're being coated or plated. Ultrasonic cleaners provide a fast and thorough cleaning of part surfaces, saving time and ensuring complete adhesion. The use of ultrasonic cleaners is completely safe and does not require the use of chemicals to remove dirt or contaminants. The benefits include quicker processing, better throughput, and higher quality results.

How does an ultrasonic parts cleaner work in cleaning parts to be plated or coated? It involves the production of microscopic cavitation bubbles in the cleaning tank. An ultrasonic generator produces a high-frequency electric signal to a transducer, which converts the signal into sound waves as they encounter the cleaning solution.

These sound waves in the cleaning liquid have high-pressure peaks and low-pressure troughs. Cavitation bubbles are formed at low pressure and collapse at high-pressure peaks. The continuous cavitation action results in a mechanical cleaning action and scrubbing effect on the surfaces of the parts to be cleaned. Contaminants and particles are dislodged and carried away by the cleaning solution.


Choosing the appropriate frequency, power and cleaning system configuration is important for effective cleaning before plating or coating. The frequency depends on the structure of the parts as well as the nature of the surface contamination that needs to be removed. Kaijo’s experts work with customers to ensure the right frequency, power and system configuration is used to provide optimum results for their specific cleaning application. 

Kaijo’s ultrasonic parts cleaners provide fast and thorough cleaning of parts, ensuring total and effective adhesion of coatings and planting applications. To learn more about how ultrasonic cleaners work, read the complete article “How Ultrasonic Cleaners Provide Effective Cleaning Before Plating or Coating”. Call Kaijo for a free consultation or quote at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

Why Ultrasonic Cleaners Are the Best Alternative to Cleaning with Toxic Solvents

Traditional industrial cleaning methods involve cleaning parts using toxic chemicals and mechanical scrubbing to dissolve and remove surface contaminants and residues. However, the cost of the cleaning chemicals, as well as their handling and disposal, continues to rise. The best alternative to traditional industrial cleaning methods is the use of Industrial ultrasonic cleaners. Ultrasonic cleaning effectively removes surface contaminants from a wide variety of parts made from different materials but does not require the use of toxic chemicals and intense scrubbing.

How does ultrasonic cleaning equipment work? It uses the scrubbing effect of microscopic cavitation bubbles produced by ultrasonic waves in the cleaning solution. The cavitation bubbles are formed in the low-pressure regions of the ultrasonic sound waves and they collapse in the high-pressure peaks. The continuous formation and collapse of the microscopic bubbles create the powerful cleaning and scrubbing action where they effectively dislodge dirt and contaminants from the surfaces of the parts being cleaned.

Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning equipment is a cost-effective alternative to traditional cleaning methods. There is no need to soak the parts or wash them in aggressive cleaning solvents. Since it uses only water and sound waves, ultrasonic cleaning is safe. Plus, ultrasonic cleaning is faster and much more efficient. It can dislodge contaminants without damaging the parts being cleaned when the right frequency and power is applied. For cleaning more stubborn deposits, a mild detergent is sometimes used along with the use of a tank heater to heat the cleaning solution.

Ultrasonic cleaning does not also need special storage or handling facilities and does not have regulatory oversight of for waste disposal.

Read our complete article “Why Ultrasonic Cleaners Are the Best Alternative to Cleaning with Toxic Solvents” to learn more about the benefits of using ultrasonic cleaners. Call 408-675-5575, or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com if you would like to discuss how Kaijo’s equipment can be used in your cleaning application.

How to Select an Ultrasonic Tank for Your Industrial Cleaning Application

An ultrasonic cleaning system consists of an ultrasonic generator one or more transducers and the ultrasonic cleaning tank that holds the cleaning solution where the part is cleaned. In a well-designed system, the selected frequency of the generator, system power and tank characteristics all contribute to providing optimum cleaning performance.

The size of the ultrasonic tank is crucial to the ultrasonic cleaning system’s overall cleaning performance. If the ultrasonic cleaning system is a single-use installation, the cleaning tank can be sized to exactly contain the parts to be cleaned. For parts are big, long, or have odd shapes, it’s best to have a custom tank sized to meet the needs of the application. For ultrasonic cleaning systems that are used for many different cleaning applications, the choice of the tank size is critical so as to not limit the cleaning system’s flexibility.

 After determining the size of the largest part or items to be cleaned, the minimum tank size needed for the application will be known. For cleaning smaller and/or more delicate parts, a parts basket can be used to hold the parts and prevent them from coming into contact with the vibrating tank on the bottom as well as on the sides. Therefore, the tank should be a bit larger to hold the parts inside the part basket.

 The bigger the tank, the more transducers may be required to ensure that the amount of bubbles is generated evenly throughout the cleaning solution. The type of transducer impacts the design of the cleaning tank. They can be bolt-on transducers (fixed onto the tank) or immersible transducers (submerged in the cleaning liquid inside the tank).

Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning tanks can be customized for your cleaning application. Read our complete article “How to Select an Ultrasonic Tank for Your Industrial Cleaning Application” to learn more about what Kaijo can do to help you. If you have questions, or would like to schedule a free consultation, call 408–675–5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How Do Ultrasonic Cleaning Transducers Work?

Ultrasonic cleaning transducers convert the high-frequency electric signal of an ultrasonic cleaning system to sound waves within the cleaning solution. Ultrasonic cleaning systems are made up of an ultrasonic generator, a transducer and a tank to hold the cleaning solution. Frequencies in the lower range from 20 kHz to 160 kHz effectively clean heavy hard to clean contamination from a robust part, while higher frequencies up 2 MHz are used for gentle cleaning of delicate components.

Ultrasonic Cleaning Transducer Features

Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning transducers have to generate an equal and consistent distribution of sound waves in the cleaning solution while withstanding the vibrations, temperature and the cleaning action of the system. Ultrasonic sound waves create high-energy cavitation bubbles in the cleaning solution, which create a scrubbing and cleaning action, dislodging the dirt and contaminants from the surfaces of the parts immersed in the cleaning solution. The cleaning solution may also contain mild detergent and can also be heated for faster cleaning.

The housing of Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning transducer is protected by 316L polished stainless steel so that the transducer is not affected by the cleaning solution and can resist the possible pitting from the cavitation bubbles. They are hermetically sealed and can operate in cleaning solutions of up to 100 degrees centigrade. Lower frequency range transducers are provided with power levels of 600 W or 1200 W, and higher frequency units are available at 1200 W.

There are three types of ultrasonic transducers:

• Immersible transducers – these are independent units and are the most flexible in their application. They can be placed into different tanks, or different transducers can be placed in the same tank.
• Bolt-on transducers– they can be semi-permanent placement on a cleaning tank.
• Mounted transducers– they are integrated into the tank.

If you would like additional information, read the complete article entitled “How Do Ultrasonic Cleaning Transducers Work?” You may also contact Kaijo at 408-657-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com to discuss what kind of ultrasonic transducer and cleaning system should be used for your application. 

Can Kaijo Create a Custom-Built Ultrasonic Cleaner for My Application?

Aside from standard ultrasonic cleaning solutions, there are also industrial ultrasonic cleaners that are custom-built solutions that cater to the clients' specifications. Kaijo’s extensive knowledge of ultrasonic cleaning technology allows them to analyze cleaning requirements to make needed adjustments to standard equipment for superior cleaning performance.

Industrial ultrasonic cleaners consist of an ultrasonic generator, a cleaning tank, and a transducer. Each of these components can be selected from a line of standard components but custom features can be added and a custom system can be assembled to respond to unusual cleaning conditions or requirements.

Kaijo first looks at the cleaning application and considers the factors affecting the cleaning system. These include the type of parts to be cleaned, nature or level of dirt or contamination to be removed, and whether the system is mainly used for a single cleaning task or whether many different types of cleaning have to be carried out.

Based on these factors, Kaijo decides on the ideal frequencies or frequency ranges as well as the system power. A lower frequency is usually used for removing tough dirt from rugged parts in a single use application, while a higher frequency is ideal for removing light contaminants from delicate parts. Also, the system power must be high enough to evenly fill the cleaning tanks with ultrasonic waves.

Once Kaijo has chosen the frequencies and the power, the company looks at the physical installation, determining the right kind of transducer and tank. Transducers can be immersible or mounted on the tank. Tanks could be existing ones or new ones. The size of tanks and materials used could influence the cleaning process.

Once these characteristics are determined, Kaijo chooses the components from its complete line of ultrasonic cleaning equipment. The company decides whether it's the standard off the shelf components can be used or if custom components will be required by the client.

The complete article “Can Kaijo Create a Custom-Built Ultrasonic Cleaner for My Application?” provides additional information. If you have questions after reading the article or would like to set up a free consultation to discuss your needs, please call 408-675-5575 or send an email to info@kaijo-shibuya.com. 

Why Industrial Cleaners Are Used by Plastic Manufacturers

Manufacturers of plastic products need to clean their equipment between production runs. They also often need to clean the plastic products they manufacture as well.

Also, manufacturing plastic products have various cleanliness standards, depending on the end use of these products. For instance, products that are meant for use in food and medicine must have more stringent cleanliness requirements. Other plastic products used in industry applications may require less strict levels of cleanliness.

More plastic product manufacturers have turned to industrial ultrasonic cleaners from the old traditional cleaning methods that require intense mechanical scrubbing and the use of harsh chemicals.

High performance industrial ultrasonic cleaners can deliver different levels of cleaning action by choosing the right frequency and power. The microscopic cleaning bubbles produced by Ultrasonic cleaners penetrate wherever there is cleaning liquid in the cleaning tank. These bubbles completely and effectively remove contaminants down to the plastic base or tool material.

The benefits that industrial ultrasonic cleaners provide to plastic manufacturers include the following:

• Reduced costs due to the absence of harsh cleaning chemicals;
• Reduced labor costs because there's no more manual scrubbing, scraping, or pressure washing;
• Increased worker safety because the ultrasonic cleaning process is safe and needs little human supervision;
• Less time spent on cleaning because the ultrasonic cleaner's quick one-step cleaning process;
• Superior cleaning performance as the ultrasonic bubbles penetrate holes and crevices of the surfaces being cleaned;
• Longer tool and mold life because ultrasonic cleaning does not cause damage to the molds and tools;
• Better output quality because the ultrasonic cleaning parameters can be selected to specific cleaning application requirements by using appropriate frequencies and power levels.

Kaijo Shibuya, a leader among ultrasonic equipment manufacturers, can provide an ultrasonic cleaning system that meets the requirements of a customer’s application. If you would like additional information, or want a free consultation or quote after reading our complete article “Why Industrial Ultrasonic Cleaners Are Used by Plastic Manufacturers”, call Kaijo’s office at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How to Buy the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner for Your Application – Part 2

The most important things to consider in choosing an ultrasonic cleaning system are the size of the tank, the frequency of the system and the power it can provide. Aside from these the accessories such as a tank temperature heater and holding basket should also be considered when choosing the right system for a cleaning application.

Cleaning tank heater:

Ultrasonic cleaners work by generating tiny cavitation bubbles which clean and scrub surfaces of parts to remove contamination. However, when contaminants on surfaces are hard deposits that are difficult to clean, the cleaning action of the bubbles will take more time. In these cases using a heating, the liquid in the cleaning tank will help to soften or loosen the hardened contamination from the surfaces being cleaned. That's where the cleaning tank heater enters the picture.

While cleaning tank heaters are a useful option for ultrasonic cleaning systems, they should be designed for the application. Untreated plain water (below 100 degrees centigrade) may be used most of the time but mild cleaning solutions can also be used. If the cleaning solution is considered, the heat settings should be controlled so that solution won't start boiling. The ultrasonic transducer should also be designed in a way that it will be able to withstand high temperatures.

Using sweep frequencies:
Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning systems operate at certain frequencies and are designed to achieve the optimum cleaning results according to the size of the cavitation bubbles and their cleaning intensity. However, a system may experience some unpredictable negative effects. This results in the ultrasonic waves canceling each other and no cleaning occurs. Using sweep frequencies will reduce this effect.

Water resonance system

The water resonance system helps ensure even cleaning action throughout the tank. The water treatment of a water resonance system provides an even distribution of nuclei essential for bubble formation. This allows bubbles to form everywhere within the cleaning solution rather than mostly above the ultrasonic transducer. This provides an even cleaning action on everything placed in the cleaning tank.  

If you’re considering the purchase of an ultrasonic cleaner and have questions after reading the complete article “How to Buy the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner for Your Application – Part 2”, contact Kaijo for a free consultation or quote at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How to Buy the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner for Your Application – Part I

Industrial ultrasonic cleaners can effectively clean parts rapidly and completely if they are correctly configured for the specific cleaning application.

An ultrasonic cleaning system typically consists of a signal generator, a transducer, and a cleaning tank. Each component of an ultrasonic cleaning system should be carefully selected, and they must work together so that the entire system can clean parts and tools effectively.

Cleaning application – Ultrasonic cleaners usually remove light contamination like dust, films, and residues quickly and effectively. For cleaning parts that have heavy contamination (such as grease), the application of heat or mild solvents may be added.

Size and power – Effective cleaning also depends on the size of the parts to be cleaned, as well as the power selection. For bigger parts or parts that have unusual shapes, a custom-made tank may be appropriate. Naturally, bigger tanks will require more power than tanks of a standard size. However, too much power can cause pitting on the surfaces of the parts being cleaned, that's why selecting the right amount of power is as important as selecting the right tank size. The bottom line is that the ultrasonic waves need to be evenly distributed in the cleaning tank so that it can clean parts thoroughly and effectively.

Since industrial ultrasonic cleaning is carried out by the high-frequency sound waves in the cleaning solution, the cleaning tank (and the parts inside it) may vibrate slightly as cleaning takes place. This means that the parts should be suspended in the cleaning solution to avoid contact with the walls and the bottom of the cleaning tank, as even slight vibrations can cause damage.

Do you have questions? For more details read the complete article, “How to Buy the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner for Your Application – Part I”. You may also call Kaijo at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com if you have questions or would like to discuss your industrial cleaning needs.

Selecting an Ultrasonic Transducer for Your Cleaning Application

An ultrasonic cleaning system consists of a generator, an ultrasonic transducer, and a cleaning tank.

The role of the ultrasonic cleaning transducer is to transform an electrical high-frequency signal from the generator into ultrasonic sound waves in the cleaning solution contained in the tank.

Kaijo's ultrasonic cleaning transducers are made up of an electrical section that receives the electrical high-frequency signal from the generator and a mechanical section that vibrates at a high frequency. Once received, the electric signal is applied across piezoelectric crystals which change the signal into vibrations.

When the transducer is immersed in the liquid or cleaning solution, these vibrations result in corresponding ultrasonic waves in the solution. These ultrasonic waves travel through the liquid as compression peaks and troughs. Cavitation bubbles form in the troughs because of the low pressure, and they collapse again in high-pressure peaks. As bubbles collapse, they release an extremely powerful jet of cleaning solution that dislodges dirt, grime, and other forms of contaminants from the surface of the parts that are being cleaned in the solution.

These bubbles create a fast and effective cleaning action without damaging the underlying surface; they can clean even in the most inaccessible areas of the parts being cleaned. The result is rapid, efficient and thorough cleaning.

Types of ultrasonic cleaning transducers:

• Immersible transducer – A more flexible type of transducer, it can be placed in any tank in the cleaning solution. It can be positioned horizontally or vertically, as long as it is completely submerged in the liquid.
• Bolt-on or mounted transducer – It is permanently installed onto the walls or bottom of the cleaning tank.

For more details read the complete article titled “Selecting an Ultrasonic Transducer for Your Cleaning Application”. If you have questions about Kaijo’s ultrasonic transducers or would like to discuss the specific cleaning requirements for your application call 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How Ultrasonic Generators Work to Provide Optimum Cleaning Results

The role of an ultrasonic generator is essential since it generates the high-frequency electric signal that is required for an ultrasonic cleaning system to operate efficiently. These devices will produce frequencies that range between 20 kHz up to 1 MHz. Ultrasonic generators also ensure that the selected power and frequency are properly controlled and maintained.

Ultrasonic cleaning systems work by creating high-frequency sound waves within a cleaning solution to remove surface contaminants and dirt from various parts and devices. The parts and components being cleaned are immersed within a cleaning tank. When the right frequency is selected, the ultrasonic cleaning system will clean the parts and components quickly and effectively – even for items that have holes, irregular shapes, curves and crevices.

The cleaning performance of the ultrasonic cleaning system depends on the action of the cavitation bubbles created by the high-frequency sound waves within the cleaning solution. These bubbles are formed in the wave pressure troughs and disappear in the pressure peaks – this action creates a powerful and intense scrubbing and cleaning action, dislodging contaminants from the surface of the immersed parts.

An Ultrasonic generator needs to fit the production environment and also match cleaning application requirements. Once the specific cleaning application requirements are defined, selecting the right ultrasonic generator which produces the appropriate frequency, as well as the corresponding transducers and cleaning tank is clear. If an ultrasonic cleaner is used the same way, to clean one kind of part made of the same material with the same contaminants, a single-frequency generator is usually the most cost effective option. The power of the ultrasonic generator must also be high enough to fill the cleaning tank with ultrasonic waves and the design must ensure that the wave pattern is uniform for effective cleaning.

For further details read the complete article titled “How Ultrasonic Generators Work to Provide Cleaning Results”. Call Kaijo at 408 675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com for a free quote or consultation on selecting the right ultrasonic generator and system for your cleaning application.

How to Select the Right Type of Ultrasonic Cleaner

Industrial ultrasonic cleaners come in various types with different configurations and characteristics that are determined by the cleaning application. The size, power, frequency, and controls of each ultrasonic cleaner will influence its cleaning capabilities. It’s important to choose the right type of ultrasonic cleaner to achieve the best (and the most desirable) cleaning performance possible.

Ultrasonic cleaners come in different types which include:

• Desktop system – suitable for cleaning small parts of one type with the same contaminants.
• Bench top system – a larger system that can be an integrated turnkey system or assembled from individual components. It can clean a wide array of parts and remove different kinds of contaminants.
• Large industrial system – consists of tanks that can accommodate large or bulky products. In this system, ultrasonic generators are mounted separately, and several transducers may require filling the tank with the ultrasonic sound waves.

The cleaning frequency is essential for the removal of dirt and contaminants. Low frequencies deliver robust cleaning action but can damage delicate parts. High frequencies, on the other hand, deliver provide gentler cleaning but may take a longer time to remove contaminants.

In order to insure that the industrial ultrasonic cleaner works as expected for a specific cleaning application, the right frequency and power must be provided. For existing cleaning tanks, a separate immersible transducer is typically the easiest solution. For new cleaning tanks, a built-in transducer is mostly preferred to avoid problems with transducer placement and vibrations.

Optional measures such as using heat and/or using mild cleaning chemicals can help in dissolving and removing more difficult contaminants. Heat is often useful in cleaning applications that involve heavy contamination that include grease and oil since higher temperatures soften these contaminants so they are easier to remove.

For more details on this topic read the complete article “How to Select the Right Type of Ultrasonic Cleaner”. For help with selecting the right ultrasonic cleaner for your application contact Kaijo for a free consultation or quote at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems Are Used to Clean Industrial Lenses

Ultrasonic cleaning systems can effectively clean glass lenses, however due to the special characteristics of lenses, selecting the correct ultrasonic frequency, power and bath is critical.

Industrial lenses that are made of pure glass are ideal candidates for ultrasonic cleaning. The ultrasonic generator produces high-frequency electronic signal, and the transducer immersed in the ultrasonic bath converts that signal to ultrasonic waves within the liquid.  The waves within the cleaning bath generate cavitation bubbles in the pressure troughs, and then they collapse in the pressure peaks. The action of the cavitation bubbles produces a powerful scrubbing and cleaning action against the hard surfaces of the lenses, dislodging contaminants from the surface.

While glass itself would not be affected by ultrasonic cleaning systems, it may have been treated with a special coating or surface treatments that can be damaged at certain frequencies, in heated baths or when used with added detergents.

Lower frequencies – Produce larger cavitation bubbles with a more robust cleaning action.

High frequencies – Produce smaller cavitation bubbles with a gentler cleaning action.

The power produced by the ultrasonic system affects the cleaning time. If the power is too low, too few bubbles are generated, and the cleaning process will take longer. The power level should be exactly enough so that it can produce the maximum amount of cavitation bubbles that will allow the quickest and most thorough cleaning action on industrial lenses.

Robust cleaning with the addition of detergents and/or heat will speed up the cleaning process on pure glass lens. However, if the lens has any coating, the same cleaning measures may damage the lens coating. Thus, the required frequency for cleaning coated glass lenses must be high enough to avoid damaging coatings that are softer than pure glass.

The complete article, “How Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems Are Used to Clean Industrial Lenses” goes into more detail. If you would like additional information, or have questions, please contact Kaijo through email at info@kaijo-shibuya.com or call (408) 675-5575.

How Long Will Ultrasonic Cleaning Take to Clean My Parts?

The amount of time required for an ultrasonic cleaning system to clean a part depends on the system, the material the part is made of and the nature of the contaminants. Typically, industrial ultrasonic cleaners can complete common cleaning tasks between ten and twenty minutes.

While cleaning time depends on the power of the system, the material the parts are made from and the degree of contamination also impact the cleaning time. For a light cleaning action, it may take just a few minutes. When cleaning parts that are covered with substantial deposits of hardened grease or carbon, cleaning will take much longer.

Frequency is also a factor that determines how quickly some industrial ultrasonic cleaners can take to clean. A high frequency (100 kHz and above) is ideal for cleaning delicate parts such as semiconductors, while a lower frequency (20 to 40 kHz) is ideal for cleaning more robust components like greasy machine parts. Cleaning parts under high frequency (which produces smaller cavitation bubbles and a gentler cleaning action) will take longer. On the other hand, a low frequency (which produces bigger cavitation bubbles and a more robust cleaning action) allows for quicker cleaning.

The power provided by a high-performance ultrasonic cleaner is another factor that affects the system's cleaning speed. A power that's too low generates fewer cavitation bubbles and thus, cleaning time will take longer. Providing the right level of power for the specific size bath will produce the most cavitation bubbles, leading to the fastest cleaning action.

You can learn more about the length of time required for ultrasonic cleaning parts by reading our complete article “How Long Will Ultrasonic Cleaning Take to Clean My Parts.” If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Kaijo at (408) 675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

What Is the Definition of Ultrasonic and Megasonic Frequency?

Sound exists at much higher frequencies, which includes both ultrasonic and megasonic ranges. While these may not be audible to human hearing, these frequencies can be used in practical applications in megasonic and ultrasonic cleaning systems.

So how do megasonic and ultrasonic cleaning systems work? When liquids and gases are subjected to high-frequency sound at powerful energy levels, it leads to the formation of microscopic tears in these mediums.

When megasonic or ultrasonic sound energy goes through these mediums, it causes the microscopic tears to form into bubbles every second, and these bubbles collapse quickly. This process is known as “cavitation.”

Cavitation bubbles are high-energy bubbles. As each of these bubbles forms and collapses quickly, it generates shockwaves. When you place an object into these cavitation bubbles, it tends to be subjected to the energy of these implosions. These cavitation bubbles are so powerful that they can dislodge dirt or other contaminants off the surface of the object exposed. This is the kind of phenomenon which both the megasonic and ultrasonic cleaning system approach utilizes.

The megasonic and ultrasonic cleaning approach is revolutionary. This cleaning approach is faster, more thorough and more efficient. Since megasonic and ultrasonic cleaning systems are contactless cleaning systems, they do not require the use of harsh cleaning chemicals or mechanical scrubbing as conventional cleaning methods do.

The ultrasonic andmegasonic cleaning system approach are also environmentally friendly, since neither use cleaning chemicals. In conventional cleaning methods, they require the application of an involved chemical disposal system to meet compliance with environmental laws.

Kaijo has been a global leader in the development and use of megasonic and ultrasonic technology for industrial applications for over 60 years. To learn more about their megasonic and ultrasonic cleaning systems, please read the complete article titled “What Is the Definition of Ultrasonic and Megasonic Frequency”. If you have questions, or would like a free consultation, contact Kaijo by phone at 208-675-5575 or by sending an email to info@kaijo-shibuya.com. 

How Industrial Ultrasonic Cleaners Enhance Aerospace Safety

Aerospace parts and components used in rockets and aircraft need to withstand the extreme temperatures and operating conditions in which they are normally used. Part of the maintenance requires that they are cleaned from contaminants and checked regularly to maintain their functionality. Cleaning needs to be thorough to ensure that they won't malfunction during operation and put the passengers' and crew's safety at risk. Industrial ultrasonic cleaners are the better alternative in cleaning aerospace parts and components because they provide a more thorough and more efficient cleaning solution.

Ultrasonic cleaning systems work by generating an electric signal and converting it into sound waves inside the cleaning tank, which usually contains water (or water added with only a mild cleaning solution) and the part or component to be cleaned is immersed in it. With the ultrasonic sound waves travel through the cleaning solution, they produce pressure peaks and troughs.

Microscopic bubbles form in the pressure troughs and collapse in the peaks. These are called cavitation bubbles – high-energy bubbles that produce a powerful jet which removes contaminants from the surface of the object being cleaned. These bubbles can even clean inaccessible areas as well as irregular curves, holes and crevices of the contaminated aerospace parts, something which mechanical brushing cannot do. The result is a more complete and thorough cleaning action of these industrial parts.

Ultrasonic cleaning systems do not use harsh chemicals, intense mechanical brushing and pressure washing which are typical in conventional cleaning methods. With heavy contamination, conventional cleaning methods may not remove all the contaminants completely, and aggressive cleaning may damage parts or reduce their useful life.

High-Performance industrial ultrasonic cleaners deliver quick, thorough and comprehensive cleaning action that makes them suitable for a wide variety of cleaning applications. Since ultrasonic cleaning tanks do not involve the use and disposal of harsh chemicals, they are a safer and more environmentally-friendly choice for cleaning industrial parts.

Kaijo has a complete line of industrial ultrasonic cleaners and also provides expert help and assistance in helping customers use the right system for their specific application. For more details read the complete article, “How Industrial Ultrasonic Cleaners Enhance Aerospace Safety”. Call Kaijo at 408-675-5575 if you have questions or would like to get a free consultation.

Using Ultrasonic Cleaners in Disaster Restoration

Items recovered from disasters (like floods, hurricanes, and fires) are often covered with dirt, soot and mold. There are traditional cleaning methods for cleaning recovered items such as wiping, soaking in harsh chemicals or rough mechanical scrubbing. These methods may leave residue or cause damage to these items, while there's little assurance that they would come out completely cleaned.

Ultrasonic cleaning system is the ideal alternative to the traditional methods in cleaning these items.

This system works by generating ultrasonic waves and the tiny cavitation bubbles in the water (or water mixed with a mild detergent). The bubbles form and collapse in time with the frequency of ultrasonic waves. When these bubbles collapse against the surface of the items being cleaned, they create a strong cleaning and scrubbing action, knocking off and loosening dirt and contaminants from the surface.

One of the greatest advantages of ultrasonic cleaning over traditional cleaning methods is that the former cleans the items thoroughly – even items with complicated shapes and hard-to-reach holes and crevices. It cleans effectively and precisely, without the risk of damage to the items being cleaned.

Choosing the right frequency is the key for successful cleaning. For robust items with hard surfaces, opt for the low frequency (26 to 38 kHz) which produces large, energetic cavitation bubbles for the robust cleaning action. For cleaning delicate items, choose higher frequencies (450 to 950 kHz) which generates smaller bubbles for gentler cleaning.

Adding mild but specific solvents to the cleaning solution is required only for cleaning more stubborn dirt and contaminants. This is to ensure rapid and complete cleaning of the items.

Do you need to restore items after a natural disaster? Read the complete article “Using Ultrasonic Cleaners in Disaster Restoration” to learn how ultrasonic cleaners can help. If you have questions, or would like more information, you may contact Kaijo Shibuya by calling 408-675-5575 or by sending an email to info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How Ultrasonic Waves Are Produced for Industrial Cleaning Applications

Industrial ultrasonic cleaners deliver cleaning performance that is faster, safer, and more efficient than traditional cleaning methods that use chemicals. Along with being more effective, this method is more environmentally friendly since cleaning doesn't require the use of harsh chemicals or mechanical scrubbing. Tiny cavitation bubbles generated by the ultrasonic system do the removal of impurities from a variety of parts and components, which range robust metal and ceramics to delicate semiconductors.

The three main components of the ultrasonic cleaning system consist of the ultrasonic generator, the transducer, and the cleaning tank.

The cleaning tank holds the cleaning solution as well as parts to be cleaned. It must be heavy and durable enough to withstand the cleaning action of the ultrasonic waves, and big enough to contain the biggest parts to be cleaned.

How doultrasonic cleaners work? The ultrasonic generator produces the electric signal which, in turn, generates the ultrasonic waves via the transducer.

The function of the transducer is to handle the frequency and power produced by the generator to create the ultrasonic waves in the cleaning solution. When the ultrasonic waves travel through the cleaning solution, it creates compression peaks and troughs. The tiny cavitation bubbles form in the troughs where there is low pressure and collapse in the peaks because of high pressure.

When the bubbles collapse, each of them releases a small but powerful jet of liquid, which produce an intense cleaning action on the surfaces of the parts being cleaned. This effectively dislodges any contaminants and any other impurities from the surface of the part being cleaned. The microscopic bubbles can clean even intricate shapes and hard-to-access holes and crevices. Result is fast and thorough cleaning.

Kaijo Shibuya offers a complete line of industrial ultrasonic cleaning equipment. Read the complete article “How Ultrasonic Waves Are ProduceHow Ultrasonic Waves Are Produced for Industrial Cleaning Applicationsd for Industrial Cleaning Applications” to discover how Kaijo Shibuya’s industrial ultrasonic cleaners can be used in your cleaning application. For a free consultation or quote call Kaijo at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com. 

Using Ultrasonic Cleaners for Medical Devices

Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems are often utilized to clean medical instruments, devices and implants that have delicate, high-precision designs and complex surface geometries. Medical devices typically have various sorts of contaminants and impurities that include carbon deposits, grease, chemical remnants, fungi and bacteria. Because of that, they often require thorough but also gentle cleaning at the same time – and ultrasonic cleaners are effective in addressing these requirements.

The technology used in ultrasonic cleaning systems employ the power of cavitation. When liquids are subjected to strong forces, they tend to fracture and form microscopic bubbles. When these small bubbles form and collapse (often millions of times every second), they create high temperatures and powerful impact over microscopic areas. These are the forces that are utilized by ultrasonic cleaners.

Ultrasonic cleaning systems use powerful high-frequency sound waves to agitate liquid placed in a cleaning bath or tank. This reaction causes cavitation bubbles to form. When medical tools are placed inside the cleaning bath, these microscopic cavitation bubbles form over the surface. As these bubbles form and collapse over the surface of the medical tools, they dislodge impurities from them, with pinpoint precision.

With an ultrasonic cleaning system, there is no need to use harsh chemicals or scrubbing that can undermine delicate medical devices and implants. Plus, it's also cost-effective and environmentally safe. Ultrasonic cleaners ensure a powerful, thorough but also gentle and safe cleaning process for delicate medical devices.

Both the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and the WHO (World Health Organization) recommend the use of ultrasonic cleaning technology for medical applications. Ultrasonic cleaners play a vital role to ensuring that medical devices and implants meet high levels of cleanliness. 

For further details read the complete article, “Using Ultrasonic Cleaners for Medical Devices”. After reading it, if you have questions, please contact Kaijo Shibuya via email at info@kaijo-shibuya.com or by calling 408-675-5575.