Introduce:what are ultrasonic cleaner solvents
Ultrasonic cleaning solution is a chemical solvent added to the ultrasonic cleaner to help achieve better cleaning results. This solution makes the items being cleaned more thoroughly.
How ultrasonic cleaning solvents work
Ultrasonic cleaning uses the cavitation effect, where bubbles created by high pressure repeatedly hit the surface of the items being cleaned. This process helps to remove dirt or grease from the surface, achieving a cleaning effect. This is a physical phenomenon. Ultrasonic cleaning solvents, on the other hand, uses the chemical ingredients in the solvent to break down grease and dirt on the surface of the items, resulting in a more efficient cleaning process.
Types of ultrasonic cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning solvents according to their pH value can be acidic, alkaline, and neutral solutions.
Acidic cleaning solvents mean pH < 6, including hydrochloric acid (HCl), sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄), acetic acid (CH₃COOH), and other acidic cleaning solutions. They are widely used to remove scale and rust from metal surfaces. For example, they clean flux residues on electronic boards after soldering and oxidation layers on steel parts. However, they can corrode metals, marble, and ceramics.
Alkaline cleaning solvents are pH > 8 , usually contain chemicals like hydroxides, carbonates, and phosphates. They are commonly used for industrial degreasing and removing heavy oil stains, such as on automotive parts and machine components. However, they are not suitable for cleaning organic materials like zinc, aluminum, plastics, or rubber.
Neutral cleaning solvents have a pH value close to 6-8 and are mild solutions. They mainly use ingredients like surfactants, corrosion inhibitors, and chelating agents to gently remove dirt. These cleaners are widely used for precision instruments, electronic components, medical devices, and coated surfaces, such as circuit boards, chips, surgical tools, bearings, optical lenses, jewelry, and eyeglasses. They are safe, with low corrosion properties.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ultrasonic Cleaning Solvent
1,Material
You need to analyze the material of the cleaning objects. Study the composition of the items and choose the solvent based on its characteristics.
2,Contamination
You need to identify the contaminant type that needs to be removed. For example, grease is best cleaned with alkaline solvents, while rust is better cleaned with acidic solvents.
3,Cost
Cost and efficiency should be considered, including factors like the cost of the cleaning solvents, its usage concentration, and the potential for reuse.
4,Toxicity and safety
Environmental and safety requirements should be considered, including compliance with environmental regulations, operator safety, and biodegradability.
5,Temperature and Agitation
Consider factors like cleaning process conditions, temperature, time, and whether the equipment is compatible. The recommended temperature is between 40-55°C. If the temperature is too high, it can cause the acidic or alkaline solution in the solvent to be corrosive, potentially damaging the cleaning objects.
Comment mistakes with ultrasonic cleaning solvents
1,The higher the temperature of cleaning the objects, the more effective the cleaning process will be.
The fact is that If the temperature is too high, it can cause the acidic or alkaline solution in the solvent to become corrosive, potentially damaging the cleaning objects. even cause damaging the ultrasonic bath.
2,The pH value of the solvent will remain constant during use.
During the cleaning process, the pH value can change due to temperature fluctuations and the contaminants on the items being cleaned. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the solvent regularly to maintain better cleaning results.
FAQ
Understanding the role of ph in ultrasonic cleaning solvents.
The pH value of the cleaning solvent represents its chemical composition and determines its suitability for different materials, affecting the cleaning results and efficiency. By adjusting the pH value of the solvent based on the contaminants that need to be removed, you can ensure efficient cleaning without damaging the items being cleaned.
How frequently should I replace ultrasonic cleaning solvents?
In general, you can determine if the solvent needs to be replaced by checking its pH value, color, and cloudiness. To protect the tank and extend the machine’s lifespan, after cleaning,it is recommended to drain the liquid from the tank if you won’t use the machine for several days.
