The present Operating Instructions are part of the delivered
equipment. They must be ready for use at any time and remain
with the unit in case of resale.
Carefully read the Operating Instructions before using of the
unit and operate the electrical appliance according to the
instructions.
We reserve the right to carry out technical modifications on the
unit due to advanced development.
Reprints, translations and copying of any kind, including parts of
the document, must be authorised by the editor.
The copy right remains with the editor.
2 Important safety warnings
Read before initial operation!
Intended use
Use
Mains connection
Prevention o
electrical accidents
Cleaning liquid
Hot surfaces and
liquids
The present Elma ultrasonic cleaning unit has been designed
for the treatment of items and liquids only.
No cleaning of living beings or plants!
The unit must be operated by instructed staff. Do not let
children operate the unit.
For safety reasons, the present unit must be connected to a
correctly grounded socket only. The technical details indicated
on the nameplate must correspond with the available mains
connection details, in particular those of the mains voltage and
current connected value.
The unit must be opened by authorised specialised personnel
only.
For purposes of maintenance and care of the unit, in case of
suspected humidity inside the unit or in case of malfunctions
and after operation pull the mains plug.
Fill the unit with a sufficient quantity of cleaning liquid before
switch-on. Flammable liquids must not be treated by ultrasound
directly in the cleaning tank: risk of fire and explosion!
Risk of burning and scalding! Depending on the operational
period of the unit, unit surfaces, cleaning liquid, basket and
cleaning items can heat up considerably.
Noise emission
Ultrasonic units can produce annoying sounds.
Wear personal ear protection devices when working close to an
ultrasonic unit which is operated without cover.
Sound transmission
at physical contact
4
Do not reach inside the cleaning liquid or touch sound-carrying
parts (tank, basket, cleaning items, etc.) during operation.
The manufacturer cannot be held liable for damages on
persons, equipment or cleaning items caused by improper use.
The operator is responsible for the instruction of the operating
staff.
3 Functioning
Today, cleaning by ultrasound is the most modern fine cleaning
method.
The electric high-frequency energy created by an ultrasonic
generator is transformed into mechanical energy by piezoelectrical transducer systems and is then transmitted into the
bath.
This process creates millions of tiny vacuum bubbles which
implode due to the variations of pressure caused by the
ultrasonic activity. Highly energetic liquid jets are created. These
jets remove dirt particles from surfaces and even from the
smallest grooves and bores.
3.1 Ultrasonic cleaning factors
1. Mechanical energy
2. Cleaning media
3. Temperature
4. Cleaning period
Basically, the cleaning result depends on four factors:
Ultrasonic energy is probably the most important mechanical
factor in the cleaning process. This energy must be transmitted
through a liquid medium to the surfaces which are to be
cleaned.
The present Elmasonic unit is fitted with the innovative sweep
function device: electronic oscillation of the sound field (sweep
function) prevents the formation of zones of low performance in
the ultrasonic bath.
For saponification and removal of the dirt particles a suitable
cleaning agent is required. Elma has a large range of cleaning
media on offer.
Cleaning chemicals are also necessary to reduce the surface
tension. This increases considerably the efficiency of the
ultrasonic activity.
The effect of the cleaning medium is improved by the optimised
temperature of the cleaning liquid.
For Elma cleaning products please observe the instructions
given on the label or the product information leaflets.
The cleaning period depends on the degree and the kind of
contamination and on the correct selection of ultrasonic energy,
cleaning agent and temperature.
• cleaning tank made of cavitation-resistant stainless steel
• casing made of stainless steel, hygienic and easy to
clean.
• high performance sandwich transducer systems.
• sweep function for an optimised sound field distribution
in the cleaning liquid.
• degas function for the efficient degassing of the cleaning
liquid and for laboratory purposes.
• auto degas function for automatic degassing cycles, i.e.
with fresh cleaning liquids.
• quick-drain valve on the back of the unit (from Elmasonic
S 30).
• dry-run protected heating*.
• temperature-controlled ultrasonic operation*: the
cleaning process starts automatically when the set
temperature is reached; the cleaning liquid is regularly
mixed during the heating up so that the cleaning liquid is
evenly heated
• automatic mixing during heating-up period*.
• plug-in mains supply.
• electronical turning knob.
• display of both set values and actual values via LED
settings (from Elmasonic S 30).
• splashwater-proof operating panel.
• plastic carrying handles.
• automatic switch-off after 12 h operation to prevent
unintended permanent operation.
* only models equipped with heating
4.2 CE conformity
The present Elma ultrasonic unit is in compliance with the CE
marking criteria according to the EMC directive 89/336/EEC,
and the low voltage directive 73/23/EEC.
The declaration of conformity is available from the
manufacturer.
Check the Elmasonic S for possible transport damages before
initial operation. In case of visible damage do not connect the
unit to the mains. Contact your supplier and forwarding agent.
For operation, place the unit on a dry and solid surface. Ensure
that the workplace is sufficiently ventilated!
Do not use a soft surface (e.g. a carpet) as this may impede the
ventilation of the unit.
Risk of electrocution due to humidity inside the unit!
Protect the unit from entering humidity.
The unit inside is splash-water-proof. Keep workplace and
casing dry in order to prevent electrical accidents and damages
on the unit.
• Allowed ambient temperature during operation:
+5°C - +40°C
• Allowed relative humidity of air during operation: 80%
• In-door operation only
5.1 Set up of the liquid drain (S 30 – S 900)
On the delivered unit, the drain duct for the cleaning liquid is
closed off with a plastic screw cap.
For setting up the liquid drain fix the delivered tube socket to
the drain duct. Proceed as follows:
1. Unscrew (clockwise) the plastic screw cap (see illustration
5.1)
2. Screw the tube socket (included in delivery) onto the inside
thread of the drain duct (clockwise).
3. Turn the tube socket into the required drain position (see illustration 5.2).
The plastic thread is self-sealing when the socket has been
screwed in by hand as far as possible.
Note: Unscrewing the tube socket (anti-clockwise) can
4. The drain duct is now ready for connection to a customerprovided discharge system. Use a standard tube (dia 1/2").
Push the tube onto the socket and fix it with the clamp
included in the delivery.
Illustration 5.1 Illustration 5.2
Drain with plastic srew screw cap
Drain fitted with standard tube
5.2 Connecting the unit to the mains
Required mains
conditions
Connect mains cable
Earth grounded socket:
1 phase (220-240 or 100-120V); 1 N; 1 PE protective earth.
Elmasonic S 450 H / S 900 H in countries with 100V / 115 V
mains:
2 phases (100 or 115V); 1 N; 1 PE protective earth.
Diagram: required mains conditions for S 450 H / S 900 H in 100 V and
115 V mains.
Use the plug-in mains cable delivered with the unit. Connect the
unit to a grounded shockproof socket only. Ensure that the
values indicated on the nameplate of the unit must correspond
with the available connecting conditions.
Shut the drain duct before filling the tank. (Turning knob for
draining of the tank into horizontal position (see section 4.6).
Fill the cleaning tank with a sufficient quantity of a suitable
cleaning liquid before switch-on.
The optimum filling level is approx. 2/3 of the tank volume.
The marked maximum filling level of the tank (not available on
S 10) indicates the recommended filling level with cleaning
items in the bath (see also section 4 Illustration 4.4).
Ensure that the chosen cleaning agend is suitable for treatment
in an ultrasonic bath and observe the instructions on dosage
and the compatibility of the material
We recommend the use of the cleaning agents listed in section
8.3.
Flammable products are generally not allowed for use in an
ultrasonic bath. Observe the safety warnings given in section
8.1.
Risk of fire and explosion!
Never use flammable liquids or solvents directly in an ultrasonic
cleaning bath.
.
Use the cleaning chemicals listed in section 8.3.
Ultrasonic activity increases the vaporisation of liquids and
creates a very fine mist which can catch fire on any ignition
source.
Observe the instructions on limitations of use given in section
Do not use any acid cleaning agents (pH value < 7) directly in
the stainless steel tank if the cleaning items or the
contamination of the cleaning items contain halogenides
(fluorides, chlorides or bromides). The same applies to NaCl
solutions.
Use the cleaning chemicals listed in section 8.3.
15
Putting unit into operation
The stainless steel tank can be destroyed by crevice corrosion
in a very short time. Substances that cause crevice corrosion
can be contained in household cleaners.
Observe the instructions on limitations of use given in section
8.2.
For queries please contact the manufacturer or your supplier.
6.2 Placement of cleaning items
Caution! The ultrasonic bath has been designed for the
ultrasonic treatment of items and liquids only.
Do not clean living beings or plants!
Do not reach inside the tank during ultrasonic operation!
NOTE
No cleaning items on
the bottom of the tank
Use cleaning basket
Acid tank
Cell walls can be damaged by prolonged exposure to ultrasonic
activity.
For placing and taking out the cleaning items always switch off
the unit.
Do not place the cleaning items directly onto the bottom of the
cleaning tank, as this might lead to damages to the unit.
Place the cleaning items into the stainless steel cleaning basket
(accessory equipment).
For the use of cleaning chemicals which might destroy or
damage the stainless steel tank use a separate container. For
the special plastic cleaner tank for acid chemicals please
contact your supplier.
6.3 Degassing of liquid
Freshly mixed cleaning liquids are saturated with air which
lessens the cleaning effect of the ultrasonic activity. By
sonification of the liquid over a period of several minutes before
the cleaning process the tiny air bubbles in the liquid are
eliminated.
How to proceed
16
Degas key
Auto degas
Degas the fesh cleaning liquid for approx. 2-3 minutes. For
switch-on and switch-off press the degas key.
The Elmasonic S units are equipped with an auto degas option.
When the programmed period has finished, the degas function
is automatically switched off.
See chart 4.9.
Degas and sweep functions cannot be operated at the same
time.
Please observe the following instructions before starting the
ultrasonic cleaning process.
Risk of scalding by hot surfaces and cleaning liquid!
CAUTION
NOTE
NOTE
Ultrasonic energy is physically transformed into heat.
The unit and the cleaning liquid in the tank heat up during
ultrasonic operation even with the heating switched off.
During permanent operation with cover temperatures exceeding
60°C can be reached.
During permanent operation with cover and heating
temperatures exceeding 80°C can be reached.
Do not reach inside the bath. If necessary touch unit and basket
with protecting gloves!
Ultrasonic units can produce annoying sounds.
Wear personal ear protection devices when working close to an
ultrasonic unit which is operated without cover.
Sensitive surfaces can be damaged when exposed to
ultrasound over prolonged periods, particularly at low cleaning
frequencies.
Ensure that sensitive surfaces are exposed to ultrasonic
acitivity for a suitable period only.
If in doubt check the cleaning progress regularly and observe
the state of the surface material.
Ultrasonic energy is physically transformed into heat.
NOTE
The unit and the cleaning liquid in the tank heat up during
ultrasonic operation even with the heating switched off.
During permanent operation with cover temperatures exceeding
60°C can be reached.
For the cleaning of temperature-sensitive items please take into
consideration the heating-up of the cleaning liquid.
7.1 Heating up of the cleaning liquid
(units with heating)
Depending of the degree and kind of contamination and on the
cleaning medium used it might be required to heat up the
cleaning liquid. For a quick heating-up process and in order to
prevent unnecessary energy losses we recommend to use a
cover (optional accessory equipment).
For the recommended cleaning temperature please observe the
product information of the used elma clean cleaner.
High temperatures! Risk of burning and scalding!
CAUTION
How to proceed
Heating control by
turning temperature
knob
Cleaning liquid, cleaning tank, casing, lid, basket and cleaning
items can heat up considerably.
Do not reach inside the bath. If necessary wear protective
gloves when touching unit and basket!
Press the on/off key to start the unit.
Select the required cleaning temperature by turning the
temperature knob.
The set temperature is indicated by the permanently lighting
LED.
On S 10: LED display is on and indicates heating operation.
The heating is operated until the set temperature is reached.
The LED display also indicates the actual temperature by a
blinking light (not on S 10).
As soon as the actual temperature is equal to or higher than the
set temperature, the heating switches off.
When the set temperature is reached, the corresponding LED
lights permanently.
18
On S 10: LED display off.
The ultrasonic energy is transformed physically into heat. Low
set temperatures can be exceeded during ultrasonic operation.
7.2 Temperature-controlled cleaning
(units with heating)
Functioning
How to proceed
Elmasonic S units are equipped with an optional temperaturecontrolled cleaning function. The cleaning process is
automatically started as soon as the required bath temperature
is reached.
1. Place the cleaning items into the tank.
2. Select the required temperature.
3. Set the required ultrasonic cleaning period.
4. Keep the start/stop key pressed > 2 sec:
The unit starts heating up.
During the heating-up process the ultrasound is regularly
activated to mix the liquid.
When the set temperature is reached the ultrasound is
switched on for the duration of the set cleaning period.
When the set cleaning period has run down, the ultrasonic
activity switches off automatically. The heating continues
operating at the set temperature.
7.3 Automatic mixing of the liquid during heating up
(units with heating)
Functioning
How to proceed
Without mixing of the liquid the generated heat will rise to the
surface of the bath. This will cause a strong gradient of
temperature inside the cleaning tank. In order to ensure an
even heating-up of the cleaning liquid, it makes sense to mix
the liquid from time to time, e.g. by means of ultrasound.
Elmasonic S units are equipped with an optional mixing device
which guarantees the optimum mixing of the cleaning liquid
during the heating up process.
The ultrasound is activated for operating periods of approx. 5
seconds each with one-minute breaks in between.
1. select the required cleaning period (set period)
2. set the required temperature
3. to start keep the ►
(see chart 4.9)
Operation only when set temperature > actual temperature
Set the required cleaning period with the turning knob. The LED
display indicates the set period.
On Elmasonic S 10: LED display is on.
For short period operation set the required cleaning period at
the turning knob.
Press the ►
The unit starts the ultrasonic cleaning process. The remaining
period is indicated in the blinking LED display (not on
Elmasonic S 10). The ultrasound is automatically switched off
when the set period has run down.
For permanent operation turn the turning knob clockwise into
■ key to start the ultrasonic operation.
∞ position. In this operating mode there is no automatic switch-
off. The ultrasonic activity must be switched off by hand after
the cleaning process has been finished; press the ►
switch of. Alternatively, turn the turning knob back into “0”
position.
Caution: Do not turn the turning knob anti-clockwise into “0”
position!
In order to avoid unintended permanent operation, the
Elmasonic S units are equipped with a safety switch-off
automatically. The unit switches off completely after 12 h
permanent operation. In case you wish to continue operation
start the unit again.
■ key to
7.5 Sweep function
Elmasonic S units are equipped with an optional sweep
function.
Functioning
How to proceed
20
A more homogeneous sounding of the cleaning bath is
achieved by the continued displacement of the sound pressure
maxima in the cleaning liquid.
Particularly for large cleaning items it may be useful to switch
on the sweep function.
Press the sweep key to switch on or off.
Sweep and degas functions cannot be operated at the same
time.
When the cleaning process is finished rinse the cleaning items,
e.g. under the tap.
Drain the liquid as soon as it is dirty or when the unit is not
operated over a prolonged period of time. Certain residues and
types of contamination may destroy or damage the stainless
steel tank.
Use the quick-drain duct to drain the cleaning tank (see section
4.9).
8 Cleaning media
The cleaning chemical to be used must be suitable for the use
in an ultrasonic bath to prevent damage to the tank or injuries to
the user. Use the recommended cleaners mentioned in section
8.3. Observe the restrictions to cleaners containing solvents
and aqueous cleaners mentioned in sections 8.1 and 8.2.
For queries please contact the manufacturer or your supplier.
Exclusion of liability
Damages caused by non-compliance with the instructions given
in sections 8.1 and 8.2 will not be covered by the
manufacturer's warranty!
8.1 Limitations of use of cleaners containing solvents
Caution! Never use flammable liquids or solvents directly in an
ultrasonic cleaning tank. Risk of fire and explosion!
Ultrasound increases the volume of vaporisation of liquids and
creates a very fine mist that can catch fire on any ignition
source at any time.
Do not fill potentially explosive substances and flammable
solvents
• falling under the hazardous goods/material classification
according to the Ordinance Regulating Flammable
Liquids(“Vfb”): AI, B, AII, AIII
• or marked in compliance with the EEC directives by
symbols and safety warnings E or R 1, R2
• or R 3 for potentially explosive substances
• or F+, F or R 10, R 11 or R 12 for flammable substances
into the stainless steel tank for ultrasonic treatment.
In compliance with the general regulations on the protection of
labour, certain limited volumes of flammable liquids (max. 1
litre) can be used in an ultrasonic cleaning unit under the
following conditions: these liquids must be filled into a suitable
separate vessel (e.g. beaker) with sufficient ventilation; this
vessel (beaker) can then be put into the stainless steel tank
which is filled with inflammable liquid (water with a few drops of
interlacing agent).
8.2 Limitations on aqueous cleaners
Do not use aqueous cleaning media with pH values in the acid
range (pH < 7) directly in the ultrasonic tank if fluoride (F¯),
chloride (Cl¯) or bromide (Br¯) ions can be taken in by the
removed dirt or through the cleaning chemical. These can
destroy the stainless-steel tank by crevice corrosion within a
very short period of ultrasonic operation.
Acids and alkaline
solutions
Entrainment o
chemical substances
Acid-resistant tank
Disinfectants
Safety regulations
Other media which can destroy the stainless-steel tanks when
used in high concentrations or with high temperatures during
ultrasonic operation are: nitric acid, sulphuric acid, formic acid,
hydrofluoric acid (even diluted). (Completeness of list not
guaranteed.)
The above limitations for the use of chemicals in an ultrasonic
bath also apply for the aforementioned chemicals when these
are brought into an aqueous (particularly distilled water) bath
through entrainment or from the removed dirt.
For the ultrasonic treatment with the above mentioned media
use an acid-resistant tank (available as accessory equipment).
The limitations of use also apply to the standard cleaners and
disinfectants if these contain the above mentioned compounds.
Observe the safety warnings indicated by the manufacturer of
the chemicals (e.g. goggles, gloves, R and S phrases).
Elma has a large range of suitable cleaning products on offer
developed by chemical engineers in the Elma laboratory.
Please contact your supplier to find the most suitable cleaning
chemical for your application.
Environment
friendly products
The organic detergents contained in the elma clean cleaning
concentrates are biodegradable. Product informations and
safety data sheets are available from the manufacturer.
8.3.1 Dental
elma clean 10
elma clean 25
elma clean 35
elma clean 40
Universal cleaning concentrate for the cleaning of instruments
and laboratory equipment made of plastic, ceramic, stainless
steel, rubber and glass.
Cleaning concentratefor prostheses with activated oxygen for
the cleaning of dental prostheses made of metal, ceramcis and
plastic. The released oxygen refreshes the prosthesis
hygienically.
Chemical cleaning concentrate for the removal of cement and
carbonate (lime). For the cleaning of precious metals, ceramics,
plastics, glass and rubber. Removes metal oxide, cement,
fluxing media, etc.
Aldehyde-free, ready-to-use drill cleaner for instruments made
of stainless steel. For the hygienical removal of amalgam
remains, blood, tissue, etc.; with anti-corrosion effect.
Acid cleaning concentrate for instruments made of stainless
steel, glass and plastic. Removes corrosion, rust films and
mineral deposits.
23
Cleaning media
8.3.2 Medical
elma clean 10
elma clean 60
Universal cleaning concentrate for the cleaning of instruments
and laboratory equipment made of plastic, ceramic, stainless
steel, rubber and glass.
Acid cleaning concentrate for instruments made of stainless
steel, glass and plastic. Removes corrosion, rust films and
mineral deposits.
8.3.3 Optics
elma opto clean
Cleaning concentrate for glasses, frames, optical lenses and
components. Also suitable for plastics.
8.3.4 Laboratory
elma clean 60
elma clean 65
elma clean 70
Acid cleaning concentrate for instruments made of stainless
steel, glass and plastic. Removes corrosion, rust films and
mineral deposits.
Neutral laboratory and universal cleaning concentrate for glass,
plastic, metals and rubber.
Alkaline laboratory cleaning concentrate for equipment made of
glass, metal, alkali-proof plastics, rubber and ceramics.
Removes dust, grease, oil, soot, etc.
elma clean 75
Ammoniacal cleaning concentrate with brightening effect for
precious and nonferrous heavy metals; for the removal of
abrasive and polishing pastes.
8.3.5 Jewellery
elma clean 75
elma clean 85
elma noble clean
elma ultra clean
Ammoniacal cleaning concentrate with brightening effect for
precious and nonferrous heavy metals; for the removal of
abrasive and polishing pastes. Not suitable for soft stones,
pearls or corals.
Gentle, neutral cleaning concentrate for the jewellery workshop.
Suitable for soft stones and fancy jewellery.
Cleaning and brightening of gold, silver and platinum jewellery
within seconds. Not suitable for soft stones, pearls or corals.
Ready-to-use cleaner.
Extra gentle, mild alkaline cleaning concentrate for precious
metal jewellery, in particular gold and gold-alloys will be given a
new shine, with stones. Clean soft stones without ultrasound.
Ammoniacal cleaning concentrate for jewellery made of
precious metals, with brightening effect. Clean soft stones
without ultrasound.
8.3.6 Watches
elma chrono clean
1:20
elma cleaning-
concentrate 1:9
Neutral concentrate for the aqueous cleaning of disassembled
watches / clocks; removes resin residues and rust.
Ammoniacal aqueous cleaning concentrate for disassembled
watches / clocks with brightening effect onnon-ferrous parts.
8.3.7 Industry and workshop
elma tec clean A1
elma tec clean A2
elma tec clean A3
Cleaning concentrate (alkaline)for electronics and fine optics:
removes light oils, grease, fluxing agents, dust, finger prints,
etc.
Intensive cleaner (ammoniacal) with brightening effect for
nonferrous and precious metals: removes grinding, polishing
and lapping media, grease, oil, etc.
Cleaning concentrate (alkaline) for iron, steel, stainless steel
and precious metals: removes punching oil, drawing grease,
soot, forge, grinding and polishing media, high-performance
cooling lubricants, etc.
Powerful cleaner (alkaline) in powder form for iron and light
metals: removes forged and gummed oil and grease, grinding
and polishing media, lacquer and paint remnants, wax, etc.
Neutral cleaning concentrate: removes oil, grease, grinding,
lapping and polishing media, dust, sweat, finger prints, etc.
Mild acid cleaning concentrate: removes rust, lime, oxide films
(e.g. verdigirs), grease, oil, etc.
Strong acid cleaning concentrate: removes mineral
contaminations such as lime, rust and other oxides, films that
can be removed with corrosives, etc.
Pull the mains plug before carrying out any maintenance
works!
Maintenance
Care of casing
Care of transduce
tank
Disinfection
The present Elmasonic S unit is maintenance-free.
Check the casing and the mains cable for damage regularly in
order to prevent electrical accidents.
Residues of cleaning media can be wiped away with a
household cleaner or decalcifier depending on the kind of
contamination. Do not put the unit in or under water!
Lime deposits on the stainless-steel tank can be cleaned gently
e.g. with elma clean 40 or elma clean 115C (operate the unit
with concentrate + water).
If the unit is used for medical and sanitary purposes it is
necessary to disinfect the transducer tank regularly (standard
surface disinfectants).
9.2 Service life of the transducer tank
The transducer tank and particularly the ultrasound transmitting
surfaces are wear parts. The changes on the surfaces that
occur after a certain operating period are visible first as grey
areas and later on as material abrasions, the so-called
cavitation erosion.
26
Elma already uses a highly cavitation-resistant special steel. To
prolong the service life of your ultrasonic unit even more we
recommend to observe the following instructions:
• Regularly remove any cleaning residues, in particular metal
particles and rust films.
• Use suitable cleaning chemicals, with particular caution
concerning the kind of removed contamination (see
instructions section 8.2).
• Exchange the cleaning medium before it is too heavily
contaminated.
• Do not operate the ultrasound unnecessarily; switch off after
Please visit our homepage. You will find helpful information and
descriptions on our large product range:
www.elma-germany.com
info@elma-ultrasonic.com
Do you have any queries or suggestions concerning the present
unit, its operation or the Operating Instructions?
Please contact us, we will be glad to assist: