Ultrasonic PCB Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning machines use high-frequencies to cause cavitation ; the violent implosion of billions of minute bubbles in the cleaning solution contained in an ultrasonic cleaner tank. The bubbles are created by transducers bonded to the bottom of the tank and excited to ultrasonic frequencies by generators. The implosion of these bubbles blasts away contaminants on the surface of parts being cleaned.

Ultrasonic can be defined as sound waves that have frequencies above the upper limit of the normal range of human hearing, which is about 20 kilohertz (20 kHz or 20,000 cycles per second). While that is true, ultrasonic cleaners when operating can be heard due to the action created by what we call ultrasonic cavitation.

Different Types of Contaminants

There are a variety of contaminants that can accumulate on a PCB. Attacking the offending problem with the correct corresponding method will be more effective and efficient, and cause fewer headaches.

Dry Contaminants (Dust, Dirt)

One of the most common occurrences is the accumulation of dirt or dust in or around the PCB. Gently using a small, delicate brush, such as a horsehair paint brush, can remove dirt and dust without affecting the components. There are limitations on where even the smallest brush can reach, such as beneath a component.

Compressed air can reach many areas but may damage vital connections, so it should be used with extreme care.

Specially designed vacuum cleaners for electronic components are also an option but cannot reach everywhere.

Wet Contaminants (Grime, Waxy Oil, Flux, Soda)

High temperature operations can cause some components that are coated in wax to become magnets for dust and dirt, causing tacky grime that cannot be removed with a brush or vacuum. Or a product gets a bath of sticky soda, making the board a gooey mess. Either way, these substances should be tackled before it builds up and affects performance.

Please do not hesitate to speak to us for Ultrasonic cleaning advice

Carbusonic Ltd are recognised suppliers of cleaning formulations to THE ROYAL NAVY AIRCRAFT HUSBANDRY TEAM

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