Selecting the Best Frequency for Ultrasonic Cleaning Applications

The success and effectiveness of using industrial ultrasonic cleaners depend on matching the system frequency to the parts to be cleaned, and the type of contaminants being removed. An industrial ultrasonic equipment manufacturer with experience can help companies select the best frequency and ensure their ultrasonic cleaning performance is at an optimal level.
Ultrasonic cleaning depends on the generation of microscopic bubbles in the cleaning solution. The transducers in the ultrasonic cleaning system convert electric high-frequency signals into sound waves that travel through the cleaning bath. These sound waves turn into cavitation bubbles that do the cleaning and scrubbing action on the parts to be cleaned.
Low frequencies - Low frequencies for ultrasonic cleaning are usually below 40 kHz, while typical cleaning frequencies are 26 kHz and 38 kHz. Low-frequency waves produce comparatively large, energetic bubbles that deliver powerful scrubbing action. They deliver high-energy cleaning for robust parts with hard surfaces and for heavy contamination. These frequencies are suitable for metal, glass, or porcelain parts contaminated with oil and grease, uncoated glass components, jewelry coated with production residues, and some medical equipment.
Mid-range frequencies - Mid-range frequencies range from 40 kHz to 200 kHz, with typical frequencies being 78 kHz, 130 kHz, and 160 kHz. Mid-range frequencies produce bubbles that are for cleaning more fragile components, but they can still remove substantial surface dirt. These frequencies are suitable for hard disk drives, solar cells, LCDs, and parts made of ceramic and aluminum.
High frequencies - High frequencies range usually goes beyond 200 kHz, with typical frequencies being 200 kHz, 430 kHz, 950 kHz, and 1/6 MHz. High-frequency waves produce smaller bubbles for cleaning the most fragile and delicate components. The smaller size and the less robust energy of the bubbles ensure that the parts won't be damaged. These frequencies are suitable for cleaning semiconductor components, silicon wafers, LEDs, and delicate medical instruments.
Kaio provides expert help to customers in selecting the right industrial ultrasonic cleaner that meets their specific cleaning application requirements. Learn more by reading the complete article titled "Selecting the Best Frequency for Ultrasonic Cleaning Applications." Contact Kaijo Shibuya at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com for a free consultation or quote.

Tuning into the Right Frequency for Your Ultrasonic Cleaning Application

Ultrasonic cleaning is an excellent solution for removing contaminants from a variety of components and parts without the use of strong, corrosive cleaning chemicals or mechanical brushing. It provides a faster, safer and a more effective solution for many different cleaning applications.

The key to successful ultrasonic cleaning is choosing the right operating frequency. This is to avoid damage of the parts to be cleaned and for rapid and complete removal of contaminants.

An ultrasonic cleaning generator produces the selected frequency for the system. When the ultrasonic waves pass through the cleaning solution, they produce cavitation bubbles that form and collapse quickly. As these bubbles collapse, they produce a powerful jet that dislodges dirt, contaminants and other foreign matter from the surface of the parts that are being cleaned. It is important to choose the right ultrasonic generator for the application to optimize the cleaning power but avoiding damaging the part being cleaned.

Low frequency (25 kHz) – the lowest ultrasonic frequencies produces bigger cavitation bubbles, stronger jets, and a powerful cleaning action. This is used for removing heavy contaminants from parts with hard and durable surfaces. This frequency is not recommended for delicate parts as they could be damaged and soft surfaces could suffer pitting.

Intermediate frequency (40 kHz) – suitable for any common cleaning applications, the bubbles are smaller compared to those generated by low frequency and therefore this frequency is suitable for cleaning glass, jewelry, and machined parts.

High frequency (80 kHz) – this frequency produces smaller cavitation bubbles and a gentler cleaning. This is ideal for cleaning more delicate parts with a fragile surface finish, such as hard disc drives, LCD's and aluminum parts. The gentle cleaning action avoids pitting or roughening of softer parts.

Highest frequencies (130-160 kHz )- the highest frequencies are used for very fragile parts or parts that have soft surfaces. The cleaning action is light but effective for applications that include electronic components, semiconductors, and delicate medical instruments.

The complete article titled “Tuning into the Right Frequency for Your Ultrasonic Cleaning Application” provides more details on choosing the ultrasonic cleaning generator. Contact Kaijo at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com if you have questions or would like to discuss your particular cleaning requirements.