Action
Electric power is transformed into a high frequency sound wave and transmitted to the liquid by transducers located under the sink. The high frequency sound waves are converted into mechanical vibrations. Two types of waves are generated: highpressure and low-pressure. The low-pressure waves flow through the solution, causing the formation of millions of 0.001 mm microscopic bubbles on the surface and cavities of the instrument. The high-pressure waves cause the bubbles to expand until they become unstable and collapse.
The implosion produces localized vacuum areas that are responsible for cleaning the surfaces of the objects. This process is called cavitation. Soluble particles are dissolved in the solution inside the tank, which includes a detergent that facilitates the process. Insoluble dirt is deposited on the bottom of the tank.
Advantages
This process can clean dirt from areas that are inaccessible to manual cleaning due to the design of the equipment.
Disadvantages
The equipment requires preventive maintenance and attention to the operational procedure.
If the ultrasonic cleaner does not have a rinse cycle, loose particles can remain in the devices. These should be rinsed by hand.
Delicate objects can be damaged.
Considerations during ultrasonic cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning cannot be used for optical instruments (because it removes glue from glass), rubber, PVC, wood, different types of metals at the same time, or metals and plastics at the same time.
This cleaning does not remove encrusted dirt. It is a supplement to manual cleaning.
The wave frequency utilized does not produce microbial death and if the cover of the tank is not closed, it can produce polluting aerosols. Devices that go through ultrasonic cleaning should be aired out prior to cleaning, in order to eliminate all gases. Otherwise, the process of cavitation will decrease since gases will be introduced into the steam bubble, diminishing the energy of the implosion.
Monday, 24 july, 2023
Refrences
Sterilization manual for health centers. Silvia I. Acosta-Gnass,Valeska de.
Please Check out file at the following link
Central sterile services department (CSSD)
General Cleaning Strategies for Patient-Care Areas – Cleaning Housekeeping Surfaces
General Cleaning Strategies for Patient-Care Areas – Cleaning of Medical Equipment
