Why Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems Are Used in the Metal Finishing Industry

Metal finishing involves applying coatings or other kinds of treatments to metal parts surfaces. This is to change the metal part's characteristics, harden the surfaces, or preventing corrosion. Ultrasonic cleaning systems are able to clean these metal surfaces quickly and completely.

These metal finishes include electroplating, which uses an electrode in applying a thin metal film to metal parts; plating using a chemical process; and plating which involves pressing a foil of metal onto part surfaces at high temperature and pressure.

For these metal finishing processes to be successful, the underlying metal surfaces have to be completely clean. Otherwise, the coatings may not adhere properly if the contaminants (such as grease or oil) remain on the metal surface.

Clean and contamination free surfaces allow for the proper adhesion of metal coatings, that's why metal parts must be cleaned completely for the coatings and claddings to adhere. Ultrasonic cleaning systems effectively clean metal surfaces quickly and thoroughly.

In ultrasonic cleaning process metal parts to be coated are immersed in a bath of pure water (or water mixed with a mild detergent). A high-powered ultrasonic generator transmits an electrical signal to an ultrasonic transducer that is placed in the bath and produces ultrasonic waves in the liquid at a selected frequency. The sound waves generate tiny cavitation bubbles that produce a strong scrubbing and cleaning action against the metal surfaces in the bath, dislodging particles and removing contaminants.

Other cleaning methods that use chemicals or mechanical cleaning are often used in metal applications. However, the use of ultrasonic cleaning systems and equipment is faster and does not require the use of harsh cleaning chemicals or intense mechanical scrubbing. Since ultrasonic cleaning requires no chemicals costs are reduced and it is more environmentally friendly.

Read our complete article, “Why Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems Are Used in the Metal Finishing Industry” to learn more. If you have questions or would like to set up a consultation, contact Kaijo Shibuya at info@kaijo-shibuya.com or call 408-675-5575.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

Why Use Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems with a Heater?

Ultrasonic cleaning systems can remove a wide variety of contaminants from the surfaces of parts that need to be cleaned, however removing certain kinds of contaminants require more time than other cleaning applications.

The performance of an ultrasonic cleaning system depends on the parts to be cleaned and the type of the contaminants that have to be removed. For instance, robust parts like automotive components can be typically cleaned in plain water, using the strong cleaning action of the lower frequencies (which produce larger and more energetic bubbles for more robust cleaning). More delicate and fragile parts like semiconductor wafers are usually cleaned using higher frequencies (which produce smaller and less energetic cavitation bubbles for delicate cleaning).

But sometimes, cavitation bubbles alone are not enough to remove tough deposits such as oil-based dirt and grease. That's where additional measures like a mild detergent and heat come into the picture.

In some cases, a combination of a mild detergent and heat can be tailored to a particular object, and the proper selection can help in improving the ultrasonic cleaning system's performance significantly. The detergent increases the solubility of the contaminants while heat softens them. The heat increases the effectiveness of the detergent. These measures will help in removing these contaminants quickly and completely.

Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning systems consist of ultrasonic generators (which produce the ultrasonic signal and are selected depending on the frequency needed for the cleaning application), transducers (which should be matched to work with the selected generator), and a tank (which holds the bath and the objects to be cleaned in it).

For cleaning applications requiring heat, both the transducer and the tank should be designed for a heated cleaning solution. Typical temperatures range from 80 degrees Centigrade (or 176 degrees Fahrenheit). Kaijo’s ultrasonic transducers and tanks can accommodate heating requirements up to 100 degrees centigrade (212 degrees Fahrenheit) and the company will work with customers to select right equipment and systems from their full line of products.

Learn more about Kaijo’s ultrasonic cleaning systems by reading our entire article titled “Why Use Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems with a Heater?” For more details contact Kaijo either by email at info@kaijo-shibuya.com or call use a 408-675-5575.

How Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems Promote Profitability

Having an effective cleaning process is essential to many industries. In recent years many companies have made the switch from degreasing and other conventional cleaning processes to a more cost-effective cleaning approach.

The chemicals involved in the conventional cleaning process and are expensive to buy and also need to be safely stored. Another consideration for choosing a new cleaning method is the protection of workers who use these chemicals, plus the safe disposal of toxic waste adds further expense. Other industries need to find alternative cleaning alternatives due to environmental concerns.

In industries that require cleaning of industrial parts and equipment, ultrasonic cleaning systems have emerged as a preferred alternative to traditional cleaning methods. These systems utilize ultrasonic energy to clean contaminated tools or parts.

Ultrasonic energy works rather simply – when dense, elastic media such as water is subjected to high-frequency energy, it expands and contracts quickly as to cause millions of microscopic fractures or tears. The microscopic bubbles that are created form and collapse so quickly that they create a great force. When these bubbles touch close to the surface of an object, the force can knock the contaminants off the surface.

Ultrasonic cleaners consist of a tank that is usually filled with water. A transducer can generate high-energy ultrasonic frequencies between 20 to 200 kHz. When contaminated items are a placed in a bath inside the tank, the ultrasonic waves from the transducer generate millions of tiny cavitation bubbles which do the cleaning action. Depending on the frequency chosen, ultrasonic cleaning systems can do effective cleaning on all parts that range from machinery tools to delicate medical equipment.

Ultrasonic cleaning systems are cost-effective but are also a fast, powerful and safe choice for even the most challenging cleaning applications. It needs little supervision and does not require cleaning with chemicals or the need toxic waste disposal. Since there are very few moving parts ultrasonic cleaners require little maintenance as well.


Read the complete article titled “How Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems Promote Profitability” for more details. If you have questions or need additional information, call Kaijo at 408 675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

How Utility Companies Cut Grease, Grime and Costs with Ultrasonic Cleaners

The large compressors are usually used by utility companies to move natural gas through pipelines into storage. The compressors themselves, as well as the engines that drive them, are exposed to a lot of grease, grime and deposits and thus require extensive cleaning and maintenance.

Many utility companies use conventional methods of cleaning those heavily and hardened grease- and oil-based components. However, industrial ultrasonic cleaners now offer a better alternative solution to traditional cleaning methods. They use powerful ultrasonic generators and transducers to generate microscopic bubbles in the cleaning solution. These bubbles act as “scrubbers” which cleans parts quickly and thoroughly.

Traditional cleaning methods use strong cleaning chemicals which may corrode or damage the surface of the parts being cleaned. Using industrial ultrasonic cleaners on the other hand only requires a gentle water-based cleaning solution to clean parts. A mild detergent may also added, and/or the solution can be heated if needed for cleaning off grease and oil-based materials.

Unlike manual scrubbing, microscopic bubbles generated by ultrasonic cleaners can reach inaccessible interior surfaces (such as holes, bolt threads and deep crevices) of the parts being cleaned. The result? When a part is submerged in the ultrasonic tank all surfaces are cleaned equally and completely.

Using industrial ultrasonic cleaners will significantly reduce the need to soak soiled materials in a harsh cleaning solution. Not only will ultrasonic cleaning system will save you time, it will also save you money as well. When machine parts are cleaned down to the bare metal throughout, maintenance is more effective, easier to carry out and provides improved reliability for the compressors and engines. Parts that are completely clean will usually have a longer life and extend the lifetime of the corresponding machines. Overall facility operating performance will be more cost-effective and energy-efficient.

Kaijo can help utilities realize the benefits of using ultrasonic technology. For more details read the entire article, “How Utility Companies Cut Grease, Grime and Costs with Ultrasonic Cleaners”. For a free consultation or quote call Kaijo at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.  

The Power behind Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems

Ultrasonic cleaning systems offer an ideal alternative to the traditional cleaning methods, which apply substances or physical contact such as using harsh chemicals or mechanical scrubbing.

But an ultrasonic cleaning system, as the name implies, uses sound rather than substance or scrubbing. It utilizes the principle of cavitation in cleaning contaminated tools and parts.

The principle of cavitation refers to a phenomenon in which disturbances in liquids lead to the creation of short-lived cavities bubbles of gas or vacuum. When the bubbles reach high levels of energy, the bubbles implode and generate a considerable amount of force. The impact created by the imploding bubbles powers the ultrasonic cleaning method.

An ultrasonic cleaning system consists of a tank fitted with a special loudspeaker (transducer) which generates the high-energy ultrasonic waves. As the waves pass through a liquid of water, they reach a desired level of disturbance which leads to the formation of millions of tiny bubbles. As these bubbles form and implode many times each second, they create the cavitation energy needed to dislodge dirt, grease, and grime of the article immersed in the cleaning tank. Despite being tough and effective in removing dirt because of the cavitation energy, these bubbles otherwise will not damage even the most delicate tools.

Kajjo’s ultrasonic cleaning systems offer versatile cleaning ability which are also cost-effective and energy-efficient. A unit has a transducer which produces ultrasonic energy that range from 20 kHz to 1.5 MHz.  These systems employ piezoelectric transducer technology which promises – and delivers – superior cleaning performance over a wider range than other technologies. Piezoelectric transducer technology is far more suitable for ultrasonic cleaning because it has the ability to create ultrasonic sound energy at very high frequencies.

For more information read the complete article titled “The Power behind Ultrasonic Cleaning Systems”. If you would like to learn how ultrasonic cleaning can be effectively used for your application, contact Kaijo for a free consultation or quote at 408-675-5575 or email info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

3 Big Cost Savings Benefits of Using Ultrasonic Cleaners vs. Spray Washers

If there's one thing that business and facilities owners want when they're considering a cleaning solution, it should be cost-effective.

Ultrasonic cleaners provide an excellent cleaning alternative to other traditional methods of cleaning, like spray washers. Ultrasonic cleaners can clean anything from delicate medical parts to machine parts, and everything in between.

But there are also other ways that business owners can benefit from using ultrasonic cleaners as opposed to spray washers, in relation to the cost:

1. Save on materials
Spray washers rely on large amounts of chemicals to clean stains and require operators to use protective equipment. These concerns are non-existent with ultrasonic cleaners. Cleaning with high-frequency pressure waves does not require chemical action to loosen stains. While it requires a mild detergent to help loosen the most stubborn stains, it is otherwise inexpensive when compared to the number of chemicals used in spray washers.

2. Save on labor costs
The ultrasonic waves generated by these cleaners do not need to be directly aimed at surfaces to be cleaned. The microscopic bubbles travel in every nook and cranny of the tools and parts being cleaned, assuring thorough cleaning. With ultrasonic cleaning, the parts become cleaner with less effort.

3. Save on maintenance
Spray washers may require lots of energy to operate. It has moving parts as well that require expensive maintenance -- if they cannot be maintained regularly, they would eventually lose their usefulness. Customized ultrasonic cleaners do not require much maintenance -- they don't come with moving parts -- all you have is a transducer and a bath of liquid. With very little maintenance, ultrasonic cleaning systems are guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Our complete article “3 Big Cost Savings Benefits of Using Ultrasonic Cleaners vs. Spray Washers” explains in more detail. After you read the article, if you have questions, contact us by calling 408-675-5575 or email us at info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

Cleaning Brass and Stainless Steel Using Ultrasonic Parts Cleaners

Ultrasonic parts cleaners use transducers and ultrasonic frequency generators to produce microscopic bubbles in water (or a mild cleaning solution). These tiny bubbles act as “scrubbers” that are highly effective in lifting away dirt and impurities from the parts being cleaned.

Ultrasonic parts cleaners are an excellent alternative to the traditional cleaning methods that use intense scrubbing and harsh cleaning chemicals that can leave deposits or cause damage to these parts.

Tools that are made of brass and stainless steel can also be cleaned using ultrasonic parts cleaners. These are considered “robust” parts. Ultrasonic cleaners operating at the lower ultrasonic frequency ranges are the most effective for cleaning such parts. Ultrasonic generators for 26 kHz or 38 kHz create large, energetic bubbles that form and collapse in time with the cleaning frequency. When these bubbles collapse at the surface of the brass or stainless steel, they release bursts of energy that dislodge dirt and impurities, while never causing damage to the solid metal surface.

For parts covered in heavy dirt like oil and grease, the effectiveness of ultrasonic cleaners can be improved by adding only a mild detergent to the water bath and by slightly heating the cleaning solution. The heat will help melt the oil and grease away from the surface while the detergent dissolves them. The ultrasonic bubbles penetrate wherever there is cleaning solution, leaving the brass and stainless steel parts thoroughly cleaned. Ultrasonic cleaners also make cleaning these parts quick and efficient as well.

If you have questions about how Kaijo’s ultrasonic parts cleaners can be used to clean your brass and stainless steel parts, read the complete article entitled “Cleaning Brass and Stainless Steel Using Ultrasonic Parts Cleaners”. You may also contact Kaijo by phone at 408-675-5575 or by emailing at info@kaijo-shibuya.com.

Should De-Ionized Water Be Used with an Ultrasonic Cleaning System?

De-ionized (DI) water is plain water that lacks ions or particles because of the purification process. It is used to remove contaminants like metals and salts (ions).

Should DI water be used with an ultrasonic cleaning system? The answer is yes, depending on the parts being cleaned or the degree of their contamination. When DI water is used in the ultrasonic cleaning system, it can improve the cleaning performance. Such cleaning performance is especially important for parts that cannot tolerate detergents, solvents or other cleaning solution.

Ultrasonic cleaning systems can also use plain water – a mild detergent can be added to enhance the cleaning process. However, delicate tools and parts could not tolerate these detergents, that’s why cleaning them with DI water is often recommended. For parts contaminated with heavy, stubborn dirt and grease, a mild detergent or cleaning solvent (that do not cause damage to the parts themselves) can be added to the DI water for more effective and quick cleaning.

When an ultrasonic cleaning system has removed dirt from the parts to be cleaned, the cleaning solution is drained away but they still must undergo thorough rinsing. Plain water has dissolved minerals the parts and other impurities so that rinsing can leave a deposit. When the parts are dried, spots or films left over from the evaporated plain water can remain in these parts – even the tiniest spot or impurity left over can lead to the malfunction of these parts. That’s why the use of DI water is often recommended for rinsing them since it contains no impurities, leaving these parts spotless and clean.

Learn more about using de-ionized water for ultrasonic cleaning by reading the complete article entitled “Should De-Ionized Water Be Used with an Ultrasonic Cleaning System?”. You may also send an email to info@kaijo-shibuya.com if you have questions or want a free consultation.

Ultrasonic Cleaners for Pharmaceutical Equipment

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use machines such as pill punches and filling machine valves which, over time, can become contaminated with mold or bacteria. This makes them quite a challenge to clean.

Cleaning this equipment with toxic chemicals and by shaking or agitation may not thoroughly clean them or worse, may bring more contamination issues.

Industrial ultrasonic cleaners are a more effective, more economical, and environment-friendly alternative to these traditional cleaning methods. They effectively clean the contaminants of the pharmaceutical equipment more quickly and thoroughly. They don't use scrubbing or shaking, or require the use of harsh cleaning chemicals.

Instead, the equipment to be cleaned is placed in an ultrasonic bath which consists of a tank containing only water or a mild cleaning solution. In the liquid bath, the ultrasonic transducer is converting an electrical signal of maybe 40 kHz into ultrasonic waves that permeate through the liquid. The frequency levels depend on the cleaning applications; higher frequencies are used for cleaning delicate parts while lower frequencies are used for more robust cleaning of rugged parts.

As the ultrasonic waves travel through the liquid, they produce microscopic cavitation bubbles which will form and collapse -- this particular action of the bubbles does the scrubbing and lifting of impurities from the equipment being cleaned. These cavitation bubbles can also go into crevices and apertures of the equipment to remove any material down to the original machined or manufactured surface. Depending on the frequency and power of the ultrasonic cleaning system, cleaning may take as little as ten minutes even for challenging applications.  

Kaijo’s industrial ultrasonic cleaners can clean pharmaceutical equipment quickly and thoroughly, with a low cost of ownership. Managers and decision managers at pharmaceutical firms may choose turnkey solutions such as Kaijo’s Phenix III system or individual components like the Quava ultrasonic generator, or ultrasonic cleaning transducers and cleaning tanks. The generators and transducers can be purchased separately if customers want to use existing tanks in their manufacturing facility. Customers can buy the standard equipment or equipment configured to match their specific requirements.

For more details read the complete article titled “Ultrasonic Cleaners for Pharmaceutical Equipment”. For a free quote or consultation to discuss your specific requirements contact Kaijo Shibuya via email at info@kaijo-shibuya.com or call 408-675-5575.