Knowledge | 2022-10-08

Use ultrasonic cleaning machines in medical device manufacturing

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When medical device manufacturers assemble medical devices, they must ensure that the components do not introduce contamination into the finished product. Such contamination may include metal contamination from plant fouling, manufacturing residues, or machining. The cleanliness of sub-supplier parts creates additional uncertainty. After cleaning all components before final assembly, the medical device manufacturer can ensure that the product does not endanger the patient.


For sophisticated modern medical equipment, effective cleaning can present challenges. Components can be heat-sensitive and fragile. They may have soft coatings or easily damaged optical surfaces. Traditional steam cleaning and manual scrubbing can damage electronics and scratch screens, sensor surfaces, or fiber optics. A medical ultrasonic cleaning machine is an ideal solution for cleaning such components. Ultrasonic cleaning is performed at room temperature and can be adjusted to avoid damaging soft or fragile parts. In addition, compared with traditional cleaning methods, an ultrasonic cleaner can remove pollutants faster and more thoroughly.


Ultrasonic cleaning machines can clean complex shapes


The working principle of the ultrasonic cleaning machine is to produce tiny cavitation bubbles in the cleaning solution. The formation and rupture of bubbles are consistent with the ultrasonic frequency. When the bubble bursts, it emits a powerful jet that drives the contaminated material away from the surface of the part to be cleaned. The scrubbing action provided by the bubble can clean the surface of the part quickly and thoroughly.


Parts with complex shapes are often difficult to clean by traditional methods. Threaded holes, hinges, cavities, and rough surfaces may require vigorous scrubbing and special cleaning tools or brushes. The components that make up medical devices are often particularly difficult to clean because their shape depends on their function. Implants, endoscopes, surgical instruments, and sampling devices must remove contaminants from any cracks, seams, cracks, or holes.


Since cavitation bubbles occur anywhere a cleaning solution is present, an ultrasonic cleaner can effectively clean the interior of the cavity, connections, and dead ends. Parts cleaned with a suitable ultrasonic cleaner come out of the bath and all traces of contaminants are removed.


The cleaning strength can be adjusted to match the hardness and strength of the part


The cleaning intensity of the medical ultrasonic cleaning machine depends on the size of cavitation bubbles produced by the cleaning machine. High-frequency operation of the cleaner will produce small bubbles, cleaning action gentle, suitable for precision components. Low-frequency cleaners clean more thoroughly, and they produce relatively large bubbles that provide a powerful scrubbing effect. The lowest frequency (about 20 kHz) produces large bubbles, which can lead to pitting and mechanical damage to soft surfaces or precision components.


To ensure that the cleaning intensity meets the requirements of the cleaning application, it is important to select the correct frequency. Components such as optical fibers may have delicate surfaces, while implants may have a soft coating. The electronic component is usually fragile. The equipment can be fragile. Experienced manufacturers of medical ultrasonic cleaning machines can help ensure that the selected frequency provides a quick cleaning action without damaging the part to be cleaned.

Use ultrasonic cleaning machines in medical device manufacturing