In simple terms, ultrasonic cavitation cleaning is the method of using a transducer in an aqueous solution to create bubbles that literally implode around the part that you want to have cleaned. These little bubble implosions create a kind of scrubbing action that cause the contaminants to dislodge from the substrate surface.

The amount of cavitation energy released and it’s effectiveness in cleaning is determined by the frequency emitted by the transducer as well as the characteristics of the aqueous solution used. If the amount of cavitation energy released is too low, then it may take too long to clean the part or there may not be enough shock wave energy to ever get the part sufficiently cleaned. If the amount of cavitation energy is too high, then the energy released from the bubble implosions could damage the part itself and cause cavitation erosion.

This erosion can happen to softer metals such as copper and aluminum that are placed too close to the transducer.

The characteristics of the aqueous solution can also have a bearing on the cleaning effectiveness of an ultrasonic parts washer. For example, if certain dissolved gases are present in the aqueous solution, then that could have a diminishing or inconsistent effect on the level of cavitation energy released as the gases act as buffers or shock wave absorbers when the bubbles implode.

Rather than use straight tap water which can have various amounts of gases and impurities, it is often better to use distilled water that has been degassed. This allows for a more even distribution of cavitations and also lessens the dampening effect of the dissolved gases.

In addition to the strength of the cavitations, the frequency used also affects the number of cavitations that are produced per unit of time as well as how the cavitations are distributed throughout the solution. In general, higher frequencies from the transducer will create smaller cavitations and less energy released while lower frequencies produce larger cavitations and greater energy released. The smaller bubbles are usually better at cleaning off submicron contaminant particles while the large bubbles are better for cleaner larger contaminant particles.

Cleaning agents in the solution as well as the solution temperature can also influence cavitations. As the heat of the solution increases, the liquid vapor enters the bubbles which dampen the cavitation energy released. However, many cleaning solutions are more effective at higher temperatures so it becomes a balancing act to find the right temperature that maximizes cavitation energy and cleaning solution effectiveness.

The work basket in which you place the part to be cleaned also has a large influence on cavitation as the basket mesh can cause the sound wave energy that creates the cavitations to be diminished or inconsistent.

Lastly, the position of the transducer and the parts to be cleaned will influence the strength and distribution of the cavitations.

Given the all the different factors to consider when choosing the right ultrasonic cleaning system, it is always best to consult with an industry expert on ultrasonic parts washers.

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