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51406c GB/2019-07
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electronic GmbH & Co. KG • Heinrichstraße 3-4 • 12207 Berlin • Deutschland • [email protected]
4 Use
4.1
Instructions for use
• Before each sonication, make sure that the ultrasonic homogenizer is in proper condition.
• The
ultrasonic converter is held with the hand when performing sonication. Care must be taken
that the ventilation slits are not covered. Before the end of sonication, the ultrasonic converter is
hung again in the holder at the HF generator.
→
Caution! In continuous operation, the ultrasonic converter can heat up considerably.
• Do not touch the sonication vessels with the oscillating probe - probes and vessels could be
damaged.
• The recommended immersion depth for probes is 2 - 10 mm, depending on the set amplitude
or power, to avoid suctioning and addition of air. If addition of air is desired, immerse the probe
as little as necessary. With higher immersion depths and/or sonication of liquids with high
viscosities, the probe is more strongly energized. The result is that the preset amplitude ( power)
might no longer be reachable, especially at higher settings (> 50%). The reason is that the HF
generator can no longer provide the required power.
• When producing emulsions, the probe should be immersed to the level of the interface between
the liquids to be mixed.
• Do not use combustible solvents in open reaction vessels since the operating safety of the
homogenizer could be compromised.
• In order to shut down the device, disconnect it from the mains (pull the plug).
Remarks on cavitation formation
Compared to those of the larger ultrasonic homogenizers, the amplitudes for SONOPULS mini20
are much lower, especially for small amplitude or power settings. This can result in no initiation
of cavitation, although the probe is oscillating correctly, or cavitation formation breaks off again
and again. Stimulation for cavitation formation can be improved, such as of immersing the probe
before starting ultrasound operation or by choosing a probe with larger diameter of the tip. If these
activities are not successful, the setpoint for amplitude or power must be increased.
4.2
General use
Before starting use, the important instructions under chapter 4.1 are to be heeded!
Step 1 :
Check the ultrasonic transducer
Verify that all connecting cables and couplings are correctly connected.
The
probe type must conform to the sonication volume, see table in chapter 4.3.
The
probe must be clean, faultless, and
fi
rmly mounted.
Step 2 :
Prepare the sonication
Prepare the sonication medium.
Position the sonication vessel below the ultrasonic transducer in such a manner that the probe
does not come in contact with the vessel.
Set the immersion depth for the probe (approx. 2 - 10 mm).