In the process of parts cleaning, capillary flow can be our friend or our enemy – sometimes both at the same time. So let’s take a minute or two to understand this interesting phenomenon. Capillary flow is a property that is exhibited when liquids spontaneously penetrate narrow passageways. The classic example of a capillary (narrow passageway) … Continued
One of the problems with using the number of watts consumed to produce a particular output of another form of energy (light, motion, heat, etc) is that there are always losses when one form of energy is converted to another. Although the law of conservation of energy always applies, energy lost in conversion to other forms of … Continued
I usually try to make sure I’ve done my research prior to posting a blog. As I was thinking about the post about the ceramic ring test, however, it occurred to me that there are a couple of variables that I had not previously considered – – the pencil and the means of applying the markings to the … Continued
We in the ultrasonics industry have long been aware of an effect which is sometimes called “ultrasonic shadowing.” In general, this is what happens when parts being cleaned are positioned in such a way that parts cast an “ultrasonic shadow” which prevents parts in the shadow from being effectively cleaned. This phenomenon, although we know … Continued
Most of us are aware that the power we get from the power line coming into our house or factory comes as alternating current. Basically, the voltage on the “hot” wire as referenced to ground varies, going negative then positive 60 times each second (60 Hz). The benefit and compelling argument for using alternating current … Continued
Three phase power is commonly used where large amounts of electrical power are required. Examples are power transmission lines and large industrial machines which require considerable power. What is three phase power anyway? Let’s start by thinking of a two wire transmission line as shown below connecting the source of alternating current power to the … Continued
Electricity is not something we give considerable attention to in our daily lives. At home or at work (or wherever) there are electrical outlets. We simply plug devices into the outlets and the devices light up, heat, rotate, vibrate, charge or do whatever they’re supposed to do. What’s behind the outlet, generally, is of little concern … Continued
Maximum ultrasonic performance requires the most efficient transfer of ultrasonic vibrations from the ultrasonic transducers to the liquid in the process tank. This is generally accomplished by applying ultrasonic transducers directly to the exterior surfaces of a tank containing the process liquid. Transducer attachment techniques favor attachment to metals like stainless steel. What if the chemistry to be used … Continued
When a liquid or a gas flows uniformly and without turbulation, the result is called “laminar flow.” The most visual example of laminar flow for most of us are those arching water displays where perfectly shaped slugs of crystal clear water flys gracefully through the air from one point to another. When I first saw this effect at … Continued
The environment in the area of an industrial cleaning system is often not a “healthy” one for personnel or equipment. Caustic and acidic cleaning chemistries rise as mist above cleaning processes along with humidity and heat. Although our first thought is to protect personnel from these hazards, the equipment can also suffer serious consequences as a … Continued
