Why Ultrasonic Cleaning Is Important to Automotive Manufacturers

Ultrasonic cleaning can remove impurities and contaminants from the surfaces of the machined components, sheet metal, and other items that are finished automotive parts. Such cleaning is required because many parts come out of the manufacturing process with oil, grease, or shop dirt on their surfaces.

There are traditional cleaning methods to clean automotive parts, such as heavy manual scrubbing, harsh cleaning chemicals, and extensive soaking. However, ultrasonic cleaning is the best method as it cleans automotive parts quickly and thoroughly. It’s also cost-effective and environmentally safe.

Ultrasonic cleaning uses microscopic cavitation bubbles to scrub surfaces and remove contaminants. The bubbles are generated by the action of ultrasonic waves in the cleaning solution, and their energy depends on the sound frequency. The automotive ultrasonic cleaners are configurable for the type of part, and contamination found.

In ultrasonic cleaning, the key to a successful cleaning of automotive parts is choosing the proper frequency. Low frequencies produce larger bubbles and more robust cleaning action, while higher frequencies produce smaller cavitation bubbles and gentler cleaning action. The bubbles are present anywhere in the liquid solution, which enables the cavitation bubbles to clean even inside holes, hollow curves, or inside bearings.

Low frequencies are better for cleaning rugged parts made of steel and other harder materials. High frequencies, on the other hand, are more appropriate for cleaning softer or delicate parts (such as aluminum or parts that are coated or treated), so that surface damage such as pitting can be avoided.

 When the right frequency is chosen, dirt and contaminants are entirely removed, leaving the machined parts, sheet metal parts, and other automotive assembly parts thoroughly clean. 

It is vital to have the automotive parts cleaned before assembly, which in turn can improve performance, durability, and resistance to failure. Some parts need to be cleaned before painting or coating. Automotive ultrasonic cleaners can be configured for the type of part and the kind of contamination to ensure quick and thorough cleaning before assembly or subsequent manufacturing steps.

The complete article, “Why Ultrasonic Cleaning is Important to Automotive Manufacturers,” goes into further detail. Contact Kaijo Shibuya at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com to get additional information or schedule a free consultation.