Aqueous Precision Cleaning Equipment, Riley Industries

Aqueous precision cleaning is for applications that require high levels of cleanliness and consistent surface finishes. It can be used as an integral part of the surface treatment and finishing process or as an additional stage after manufacturing to prepare products for the marketplace.

Most precision cleaning systems adopt the ultrasonic process. This involves the introduction of ultrasound into the cleaning solution, setting up a phenomenon known as cavitation, the production and implosion of millions of tiny bubbles. This creates an intense and unique form of agitation in order to clean all of the surfaces of complex components without the need for abrasion, resulting in high levels of cleanliness.

Traditionally, ultrasonic cleaning has been used in the production and maintenance of items such as jewellery, ceramics, surgical instruments and laboratory equipment. It is widely used in all forms of manufacturing, with particular emphasis in ‘hi-tech’ industries such as electronics, computing and pharmaceuticals.

Precision cleaning systems range from simple, bench top ultrasonic tanks for workshop or laboratory use, to large, complex, multi-stage systems. Many systems require the use of de-ionised water so that all impurities are eliminated from the finished object, a particular necessity in applications such as semi-conductor production. A typical multi-stage system may include a standard wash, a de-ionised wash, rinsing and drying stages, all governed by a microprocessor control. Filtration is used regularly in both washing and drying stages to eliminate all contamination. Machines can also include automatic basket handling to enable the routine movement of components between the various stages.

The correct use of chemistry is a vital ingredient in successful precision cleaning methodology. At Riley Industries we conduct detailed research and testing to determine the correct chemicals for a particular application, taking into account factors such as ultrasonic frequency, temperature controls and the unique properties of the products and types of contamination to be treated. We have excellent working relationships with many of the leading chemical manufacturers, and consult with them frequently to determine the correct solution for our customer’s needs.

Riley Industries holds extensive stocks of high quality precision cleaning systems from some of the world’s leading manufacturers, including Kerry Ultrasonics, Branson, Lucas Dawe, Crest, Turbex and Hilsonic.