Cleaning and Inspection of the 1st Stage
Clean all metal parts of the first stage in an ultrasonic cleaner or cleaning solution. Remove
the O-rings before cleaning any metal parts since the soft O-ring material will absorb cleaning
energy from the ultrasonic cleaner reducing its effectiveness. If major visible corrosion or
deposits exist on parts, use a bristle brush, wooden, or plastic stick to rub the deposits off.
Allowing acidic cleaning solutions to do all of the work, if deposits are severe, will result in
damage to internal chrome plating which will make parts even more susceptible to future
corrosion.
5.2.2
Don’t expect your cleaning solution to do all the work in a matter of
seconds. If the solution cleans extremely rapidly, it is probably too
strong and is etching the finish on the parts. Use a wooden or plastic
stick or a soft bristle brush to help get rid of the thickest deposits. Take
special care not to damage orifice sealing areas.
5.2.3
Soft parts absorb ultrasonic energy. Remove all O-rings and seals from
metal parts before cleaning them. If possible, do not clean plastic parts
with the metal parts, or at least understand that every plastic part you
put into the ultrasonic cleaner is slowing down the ultrasonic cleaning
process for the rest of the parts.
5.3 COMMONLY USED CLEANING SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION
COMMENTS
Hot Soapy water
Preferable. Good for plastic, silicone
and plated metal parts.
Vinegar and water
(equal part solution)
(weaker solution in Ultrasonic
Cleaner)
Ingredients easily available.
Approx. 15 min. cleaning time.
May damage chrome finish.
Never use on plastic parts.
Vinegar dissolves the plastics in most
polymers making them brittle and
more prone to breakage.
Simple Green R and Water
Simple Green is a readily available
degreaser. Read the product label for
mixing ratios with water.
Cleaning solutions recommended
by ultrasonic cleaner
manufacturers
The preferred choice. Check with the
manufacturer for strengths and
recommended uses for their cleaners.
Choose soap solutions over acidic
ones.
5.4 HANDLING TIPS