Medical ultrasonic cleaner

Types of medical ultrasonic cleaners

A medical ultrasonic cleaner uses ultrasonic waves and a cleaning solution to clean medical instruments and items. These cleaners are available in various sizes and models, depending on the frequency, temperature, pressure, and features and functions.

• Frequency

  The frequency of ultrasonic cleaners usually ranges from 20 kHz to 40 kHz. Cleaners with a lower frequency vibrate coarsely and clean faster. The lower frequency can also be used for industrial applications to remove tough deposits. Higher frequencies offer a better cleaning solution than lower-frequency cleaners. A 40 kHz ultrasonic cleaner provides better precision and is used in medical ultrasonic cleaners, jewelers, and electronic parts.

• Temperature

  The temperature of ultrasonic cleaners ranges from 30 to 80 degrees Celsius. Some models can go higher than this temperature. The common models have a room temperature. The warmth of the cleaning solution helps dissolve the dirt. Higher temperatures help the solution penetrate the deposits and dissolve them faster.

• Pressure

  The pressure of ultrasonic cleaners influences the cleaning process. This is because lower pressure produces stronger cavitation. Lower pressure increases the strength of the bubbles formed in the liquid. It also allows bubbles to collapse more effectively, providing better cleaning at lower pressures. However, higher pressure may be more effective in removing thicker deposits.

• Built-in heater

  Heated ultrasonic cleaners can heat the cleaning solution up to 150 degrees Celsius. The heat can help dissolve grease, dirt, and grime faster. However, heat is not used with all cleaning solutions, so users should check for compatibility.

• Tank material

  The tank material is an essential factor to look for when buying ultrasonic cleaners. Cleaners made from stainless steel are durable and resistant to corrosion and damage from the cleaning solution. They are also an ideal choice for cleaning metal parts and components. Plastic ultrasonic cleaners are less costly, but they may not handle heat and pressure as well as stainless steel tanks.

• Energy efficient

  Energy-efficient ultrasonic cleaners use energy-saving heating technology. These cleaners are designed for bulk and mass cleaning applications. They offer a more sustainable and cost-effective solution by reducing energy and material consumption.

Features and functions of medical ultrasonic cleaner

Industries and businesses that deal with medical ultrasonic cleaners have specific requirements and standards that their cleaning equipment must meet. Knowing the features of the cleaners can help buyers see if they fit their needs.

• Frequency band

  Most ultrasonic cleaners for medical use work in the 20 kHz to 40 kHz range. Lower frequencies provide more robust and higher-power cleaning, while higher frequencies are gentler on items. A dual-frequency cleaner can clean in both frequency ranges. The 28-40kHz frequency range is suitable for most applications, while 40kHz is ideal for highly delicate or complex components or materials.

• Tank material

  The tank is where the ultrasonic cleaning solution goes. The tanks of many ultrasonic cleaners are made from stainless steel because they are sturdy and resistant to corrosion. Stainless steel is also non-reactive with cleaning solutions. If the cleaner has a cover, it will also be made of stainless steel. However, some manufacturers coat the stainless steel with other materials to improve its resistance to chemicals and corrosion.

• Heating function

  Heating the cleaning solution raises its temperature, which improves the cleaning ability of the solution. The heating function is essential for solutions with highly viscous and sticky contaminants. An added benefit of the heating function is that it prevents any chilled liquid from suddenly cooling the ultrasonic transducer. Having a heater and cooler in the ultrasonic cleaner ensures that the temperature remains stable.

• Timer control

  Proper cleaning requires specific time and agitation levels to achieve the desired result. Timer control allows users to know when the cleaning process is complete. Some cleaners emit an audible signal to indicate the end of the cleaning cycle. Timer control also improves the cleaner's repeatability and precision.

• Digital Display

  A digital display is a useful feature for users who prefer to monitor the cleaning process. It shows details like the temperature of the cleaning solution, cleaning time, and the number of cycles completed. An accurately measured process leads to better cleaning results. The display shows users when to start another cleaning cycle.

• Multifunctional

  Some ultrasonic cleaners offer more than just cleaning. They can sweep, deburr, and polish instrument parts. The multifunctional cleaners perform various procedures to reduce the number of manual tasks required before using the items.

• Capacity and Size

  Buyers must know the number of items they want to clean in a single cycle. This helps them choose a cleaner with the right capacity and size. Buyers should also know the size and model of the parts or instruments. This will help them choose a cleaner with a tank that can accommodate the parts without overcrowding.

Applications for medical ultrasonic cleaners

ultrasonic cleaners for medical purposes are vital in healthcare facilities and medical laboratories because they are useful, affordable, and easy to use. Typical uses include:

• Cleaning Surgical Instruments

  The surgical instruments ultrasonic cleaner is crucial for maintaining hospitals' and clinics' surgical and dental tools. Even though these tools come into contact with open wounds, blood, and other bodily fluids, ultrasonic cleaners get rid of all the grime, blood clots, and residues. If these instruments are not completely cleaned, the patients could get sick and develop multi-drug-resistant infections. Ultrasonic cleaners also make it easier for users to clean hard-to-reach areas of the tools.

• Preparing Medical Specimens

  Ultrasonic cleaners are useful for preparing medical samples for further analysis. They clean containers and other materials required to collect and store specimens. The devices also help to remove impurities and contaminants from medical specimens, which helps to improve the accuracy of laboratory tests and diagnoses.

• Cleaning Dental Tools

  >Ultrasonic cleaners are very handy for dental practices. They thoroughly clean and prepare dental instruments for sterilization, just like surgical instruments. Dental tools used for multiple patients may spread infections between them. Also, some ultrasonic cleaners can simultaneously clean several custom trays. The cleaner solution gets into all the tiny crevices and removes blood, debris, and other contaminants that adhere to the tray surfaces during dental procedures.

• Vascular Endovascular Device Cleaning

  Healthcare professionals use vascular endovascular devices like stents and filters to treat patients with cardiovascular problems. These devices need proper cleaning to get rid of blood, plasma proteins, and any other contaminants before they are reused. Medical ultrasonic cleaners give doctors a convenient and reliable way to clean these complex devices.

• Customized Cleaning for Medical Equipment

  Other kinds of medical equipment like orthopedic implants, handpieces, and intraocular lenses also need cleaning. Ultrasonic cleaners for medical use can be customized to meet the specific cleaning needs of different tools.

How to Choose Medical Ultrasonic Cleaners

Medical ultrasonic cleaners are specialized devices designed to clean intricate medical equipment and devices thoroughly. When choosing a medical-grade ultrasonic cleaner, it's crucial to pay attention to specific features to ensure compliance with industry standards and optimal cleaning results.

• Cavitation Range: The cavitation range plays a significant role in the cleaner's efficiency. It's essential to choose an ultrasonic cleaner with a cavitation range that matches the type of solution being used. Medical devices with complex geometries or blind holes will benefit from an ultrasonic cleaner with a cavitation range between 28 - 40 ± 6 kHz. This range will effectively clean the devices without causing any damage.
• Tank Material and Design: The tank material and design of the cleaner will determine its durability and resistance to corrosion. A 316 or 304 stainless steel construction is the preferred choice for most medical-grade ultrasonic cleaners. In addition to this, the tanks should come with rounded corners for easy cleaning and to minimize the accumulation of dirt, dust, or biofilm that can pose a risk to patient safety.
• Ultrasonic Generator and Performance: It's essential to choose a generator that produces consistent and reliable ultrasonic waves to achieve optimal cleaning results. The generators should be housed in a shielded enclosure to protect them from corrosive cleaning solutions. Additionally, the generator should have adjustable output power for diverse cleaning requirements.
• Cleaning Solutions: When choosing ultrasonic cleaners, the recommended cleaning solutions should be taken into consideration. Compatible solutions include water, solvents, or emulsions specifically designed for the ultrasonic cleaning process. Choosing the right cleaning solution is critical since it depends on the ability to remove specific contaminants or residues from various medical instruments.
• Integration and Compliance: Medical-grade ultrasonic cleaners should integrate into existing workflows with minimal disruption. That said, the devices should comply with established regulations and standards, including IEC 60601-1 and ISO 13485. These regulations govern the safety, performance, and quality management systems for medical devices.

Q & A

Q1: What are the benefits of ultrasonic cleaning?

A1: The technique provides many benefits, including the following:

• Improved cleaning - As discussed, the technique reaches complex geometries and provides thorough cleaning.
• Time-saving - The cleaner saves businesses time as the process is fast and effective.
• Consistent results - Ultrasonic cleaning provides uniform and consistent cleaning of all items. Thus, ensuring quality control is maintained.
• Efficient solvent - Compared to manual cleaning, ultrasonic cleaning uses fewer cleaning solvents. This makes it a more economical and environmentally-friendly option.
• Non-abrasive - The method provides a non-abrasive way of cleaning. Thus, the damage to delicate items is minimized.
• Safer - Ultrasonic cleaning is safer. It reduces the need for handling harmful chemicals and also minimizes manual cleaning.

Q2: What items should not be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner?

A2: It is crucial to be very careful when cleaning items using an ultrasonic medical cleaner. Some items may get damaged or affected negatively by ultrasonic waves or the cleaning solution's agitation.

Some of the items to avoid cleaning include, wooden items, items with air pockets, delicate jewelry with pearls, fabric, or leather, and electronic parts.

Q3: What type of cleaning solution should be used?

A3: The cleaning solution is a crucial part of the ultrasonic cleaning process. It directly affects the outcome of the process. Buyers must use a solution that is compatible with the cleaner and the item being cleaned.

• Check the solution tank's specifications and make sure the liquid is compatible.
• Make sure the liquid is designed for ultrasonic cleaning machines.
• Get a chemical solution that is suitable for the contaminants and the part that is getting cleaned.
• Look for liquids that improve ultrasonic cleaning, like cavitation and penetration abilities.
• Favor solutions from reliable and renowned suppliers.

Q4: Can the cleaner be used for dental cleaning?

A4: Yes, the cleaner can be used for dental cleaning. However, specific dental ultrasonic cleaners are specially designed for cleaning dental tools. These models have features that meet dental industry standards.

The cleaners have customization options that allow users to choose dental-specific requirements. They also have attachments that enable users to clean dental equipment like forceps, explorers, probes, and scalers.