Shumei KQ-S500JL Fully Automated Ultrasonic Cleaner for Gauge Blocks

Overview

The Shumei KQ-S500JL is a fully automated ultrasonic cleaning system engineered specifically for precision metrology components—particularly gauge blocks used in calibration laboratories, dimensional metrology centers, and high-accuracy manufacturing QA/QC environments. It operates on the principle of cavitation-induced particle removal, utilizing high-frequency acoustic energy (40 kHz ±1 kHz) generated by high-Q piezoelectric transducers bonded to the stainless-steel tank base. The system integrates three sequential, programmable stages: ultrasonic immersion cleaning, warm-water spray rinsing, and forced hot-air drying—each stage precisely timed and thermally regulated to eliminate particulate contamination, residual oils, and trace moisture without mechanical abrasion or surface micro-scratching. Designed for compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for equipment used in accredited calibration workflows, the KQ-S500JL ensures repeatable, documented cleaning outcomes essential for maintaining gauge block certification integrity.

Key Features

• Fully automated workflow controlled via intuitive 7-inch capacitive touch interface with multilingual UI support (English default)
• 30-liter stainless-steel tank (AISI 304, mirror-polished interior) with reinforced welds and corrosion-resistant sealing
• Electrically actuated sound-dampening lid featuring integrated LED illumination, optical viewing window, and safety interlock circuitry
• Triple-stage cleaning cycle: ultrasonic agitation (500 W), temperature-controlled water spray rinse (up to 80 °C), and convective hot-air drying (up to 99 °C)
• Real-time digital monitoring of bath temperature, liquid level, ultrasonic power output, elapsed time, and fault conditions (e.g., low-level, overtemperature, overcurrent)
• Advanced ultrasonic drive electronics with automatic frequency sweeping, resonance tracking, and impedance-matched power delivery for stable cavitation field uniformity
• Gauge-block-specific fixture system: adjustable stainless-steel rack with non-contact suspension points and optimized transducer alignment to prevent edge chipping or surface deformation
• Integrated safety protections including dry-run prevention, thermal cutoffs, ground-fault interruption, and audible/visual alarm escalation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KQ-S500JL accommodates standard and custom gauge blocks up to 500 mm in length, including Grade 0, Grade K, and calibration-grade steel and carbide blocks per ISO 3650 and JIS B 7506. Its cleaning protocol avoids solvent-based chemistries, relying instead on aqueous surfactant solutions compatible with ASTM D1384 and ISO 14040 lifecycle assessment criteria. All electrical components meet CE marking requirements (EN 61000-6-3, EN 61000-6-4), and the control firmware supports audit-ready operation logs required under GLP and ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.4.2. The system is validated for use in facilities adhering to ISO 10012 (measurement management systems) and supports traceable calibration of internal temperature and timer functions.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller stores up to 1,000 cleaning cycles with timestamped parameters (start/end time, temperature setpoint, actual bath temp, ultrasonic duration, air-dry duration). Cycle data can be exported via USB 2.0 port in CSV format for integration into LIMS or MES platforms. Optional RS-485 Modbus RTU interface enables remote monitoring and centralized fleet management. Audit trail functionality includes operator ID logging (via optional RFID badge reader), parameter change history, and system error codes—all retained for ≥18 months without external storage. Firmware complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles for electronic records where user authentication and electronic signatures are implemented at the enterprise level.

Applications

• Pre-calibration cleaning of gauge blocks prior to interferometric or mechanical comparison
• Post-use decontamination in dimensional metrology labs following surface inspection or hardness testing
• Removal of fingerprint residues, polishing compounds, and hydrocarbon films from master gauges and setting standards
• Supporting ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.4.3 requirements for equipment cleanliness verification before critical measurements
• Integration into automated calibration lines where repeatable surface condition is prerequisite for CMC (Calibration and Measurement Capability) claims

FAQ

Is the KQ-S500JL suitable for cleaning tungsten carbide or ceramic gauge blocks?
Yes—the system’s frequency stability, low-noise transducer array, and non-contact fixture design prevent micro-fracture risk in brittle materials when operated within recommended time/temperature parameters.
Can the ultrasonic frequency be manually adjusted?
No—the 40 kHz operating frequency is fixed and optimized for gauge block geometry and material density; manual tuning is disabled to maintain process consistency and regulatory compliance.
Does the unit support validation documentation packages (IQ/OQ/PQ)?
Yes—Shumei provides a configurable validation protocol template aligned with ISO 13485 and GAMP5 guidelines, including test scripts for temperature uniformity mapping, timer accuracy verification, and ultrasonic intensity profiling.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Transducer performance verification every 12 months; tank interior passivation inspection every 6 months; and full electrical safety check per IEC 61010-1 every 24 months.
Is remote software update capability available?
Firmware updates require local USB upload only; no cloud connectivity is implemented to preserve network security and data sovereignty in regulated laboratory environments.