Ultrasonic baths are tried and tested devices in laboratories, research facilities and technical workshops when it comes to achieving thorough cleaning that is also gentle on materials. They work according to the principle of cavitation: high-frequency ultrasonic waves generate tiny vacuum bubbles in the cleaning fluid, which release fine pressure surges when they collapse. These work right into structures that are difficult to access and reliably remove dirt, grease and other deposits. In addition to cleaning, ultrasonic baths are also used in analytical and preparative processes, for example for degassing solutions or dispersing particles.
A total of five of these devices are available at the institute, two models from the company VWR and three devices from the Sonorex series from Bandelin. The two VWR baths each have a capacity of 1.8 litres. They are characterised by particularly homogeneous ultrasonic distribution in the cleaning tank and are equipped with a robust heating system that enables temperatures of up to 80 °C and has integrated dry-running protection. The baths utilise modern ceramic PZT transducer technology and an increased operating frequency of 45 kHz, which results in comparatively quiet operation. A digital timer allows flexible setting of up to 99 minutes in exact one-minute increments.
The three Sonorex devices cover a larger volume spectrum. The smallest model Super 10P offers a capacity of 3 litres and works with large-area PZT oscillating systems at a frequency of 35 kHz. The built-in heater is thermostatically adjustable between 20 and 80 °C, and the ultrasonic power can be continuously adjusted between 10 and 100 %. The round model Super RK 106 holds 4 litres and is equipped with four PZT wide-beam oscillating systems. It achieves a peak power of 480 W at a constant and overload-proof frequency of 35 kHz. Unlike the other ultrasonic baths, this device does not have a heating device and the timer is set using robust rotary knobs, whereby the running time can be set between 1 and 15 minutes. The largest appliance in the range is the Super RK 510 H, which has a volume of 6.6 litres. It also works with four PZT wide-beam oscillating systems and achieves a peak ultrasonic power of 640 W. In addition to a constant frequency of 35 kHz, it also has adjustable heating in the range from 30 to 80 °C and a timer from 1 to 15 minutes.
This provides the institute with a versatile selection of ultrasonic baths, ranging from compact devices for smaller applications to powerful models with a larger capacity and variable heating and power control.
