Cleaning Machine Transport Chains with an Ultrasonic Cleaner- Case Study
Ultrasonic cleaners have been used in the manufacturing and maintenance industries for many years. They are particularly effective at removing contaminants such as carbon, lubricant, and general dirt from a variety of materials, including steel. The use of an ultrasonic cleaner is a non-invasive process that does not damage or weaken the chains and is environmentally friendly. By following our advice for prolonging the life of the cleaning fluid, companies can reduce the frequency of fluid replacement and, in turn, save money.
Customers Criteria: Free from all contamination
Component: Chains
Material: Steel
Contamination prior to cleaning: Carbon, lubricant & general dirt
The customer's requirement was for the chains to be free from all contamination. This is a common request in many industries, including the automotive and aerospace sectors, where even the slightest trace of contamination can lead to component failure. In this case, the chains were made of steel and had become contaminated with carbon, lubricant, and general dirt.
| Ultrasonic Cleaner | Cleaning Fluids | Temperature(s) | Concentration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Versa 120 Wash | Decoclean 440 | 70°C | 5% |
| Versa 120 Wash | Tap water | 50°C | 100% |
| Versa 120 Dryer | N/A | 70°C | N/A |
Process for cleaning chains:
The chains were cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner fluid, specifically the Decoclean 440. The process is non-invasive, which means that the chains are not damaged or weakened during cleaning. Ultrasonic waves agitate the contamination, creating microscopic bubbles that implode on the surface of the chain, removing any contaminants. Chain A had been cleaned before with the Decoclean 440 fluid. However, for Chain B, an increased cleaning time of 1 hour was used to ensure the complete removal of all contaminants. The chain was then rinsed for 3 minutes to remove any remaining cleaning fluid and dried for 10 minutes at 70°C.
The use of an ultrasonic cleaner has several benefits. Firstly, it is a highly efficient and effective cleaning method, with the ability to clean even the most intricate components. Secondly, it is a non-invasive process, which means that the chains are not damaged or weakened during cleaning. Thirdly, it is a very environmentally friendly process, as it does not require the use of harsh chemicals or solvents, which can be harmful to the environment.
To prolong the life of the cleaning fluid, we advise filtration on the wash tank. This ensures that any particles or debris that are removed from the chains during cleaning are removed from the fluid, reducing the risk of contamination and increasing the lifespan of the fluid.
Before cleaning Chains
Before cleaning Chain B
After cleaning Chain B
