What is the mechanical process used in an ultrasonic cleaner?

The mechanical process used in an ultrasonic cleaner is cavitation. This phenomenon occurs when ultrasonic waves create high-frequency sound vibrations in a liquid, typically water or a cleaning solution. As these waves pass through the liquid, they generate tiny high-energy bubbles. These bubbles grow and then collapse violently, creating shock waves that assist in loosening and removing contaminants from the surfaces of items submerged in the cleaner.

Cavitation is particularly effective because it can reach small crevices and complex geometries of instruments, which is crucial in sterile processing. This process ensures that even the most delicate tools are thoroughly cleaned without intricate manual scrubbing, which could potentially damage them. The efficiency of cavitation in breaking down contaminants makes it a preferred choice in sterile processing environments.