Bandelin SONOREX RK1028H Ultrasonic Cleaner

Overview

The Bandelin SONOREX RK1028H is a precision-engineered ultrasonic cleaning bath designed for reproducible, non-destructive sample preparation in analytical, quality control, and research laboratories. Operating at a stable 35 kHz frequency, it generates cavitation energy through piezoelectric transducers bonded directly to the stainless-steel tank base—ensuring uniform acoustic field distribution and minimal standing-wave interference. Unlike lower-frequency systems, this frequency balances penetration depth and micro-cleaning efficacy, making it optimal for delicate glassware, HPLC vials, filtration membranes, electrode surfaces, and small-volume instrumentation components. The unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity), and its construction meets DIN EN 61010-1 safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment. Its integrated heating function (up to 60 °C) enables temperature-controlled degassing and enhanced solubilization of organic residues without thermal degradation of sensitive substrates.

Key Features

• Stainless-steel tank (304 grade) with seamless welded drain outlet for leak-free fluid evacuation and ISO-compliant waste handling
• Fixed mains cable with reinforced strain relief—eliminates accidental disconnection and reduces risk of insulation damage during routine lab movement
• Digital timer (1–30 min) with automatic shutdown and audible end-of-cycle signal for unattended operation under GLP conditions
• Adjustable ultrasonic power output (0–100%) via calibrated rotary knob—enabling method optimization for fragile samples (e.g., biological tissues or coated optics)
• Integrated heater with PID temperature control (±1 °C accuracy) and overtemperature cut-off protection per EN 60519-1
• Compact footprint (325 × 175 × 295 mm) suitable for benchtop integration in ISO Class 5–7 cleanrooms and regulated QC labs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RK1028H accommodates standard laboratory vessels up to 120 mm in height and 80 mm in diameter—including volumetric flasks, centrifuge tubes, syringe filters, and custom jigs. It supports aqueous alkaline, neutral, and mild acidic cleaning solutions (pH 4–10), as well as low-volatility solvents such as isopropanol and ethanol—provided vapor containment protocols are followed. All wetted parts comply with USP for polymeric materials where applicable. The system is routinely validated for use in ASTM D2620 (degassing of liquid samples), ISO 15528 (paint and varnish sampling), and USP (light scattering particle analysis preparation). Full traceability documentation—including factory calibration certificates for time and temperature modules—is provided per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Software & Data Management

While the RK1028H operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument (no embedded OS or network interface), it supports full audit trail compliance when integrated into laboratory information management systems (LIMS) via external process logging. Time, temperature setpoint, ultrasonic duration, and power level are manually recorded per SOP; optional external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-CP-HITEMP140) may be connected to the analog output port for 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic records. Bandelin provides IQ/OQ documentation templates aligned with GMP Annex 15 and FDA guidance on computerized system validation.

Applications

• Pre-analytical degassing of beer, wine, and fruit juice samples prior to alcohol, pH, colorimetric, or dissolved CO₂ analysis
• HPLC and UHPLC mobile phase preparation—including solvent sonication to remove sub-10 µm particulates and dissolved oxygen
• Extraction of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) from wood preservatives and antimicrobial coatings
• Microbial cell lysis and metabolite release from herbal matrices under controlled thermal-acoustic conditions
• Soil hydrocarbon extraction using EPA Method 3550C-compatible sonication parameters
• Liposome formation and lipid nanoparticle homogenization in pharmaceutical formulation development
• Residue analysis of pesticides and mycotoxins in vegetarian food matrices per EU Regulation 2023/1111
• Surface decontamination of platinum electrodes and quartz crystal microbalances prior to electrochemical characterization

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended fill level for optimal cavitation efficiency?

Fill the tank to the “MIN/MAX” indicator line—typically 20–30 mm below the rim—to ensure sufficient air gap for acoustic coupling and prevent overflow during active cavitation.
Can the RK1028H be used with chlorinated solvents?

No. Chlorinated hydrocarbons (e.g., chloroform, carbon tetrachloride) are incompatible due to corrosion risk to transducer bonding layers and potential generation of phosgene gas under ultrasonic energy.
Is the unit suitable for sterilization?

Ultrasonic cleaning alone does not achieve sterility. It is a cleaning step preceding autoclaving, ethylene oxide treatment, or hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization per ISO 13485 and AAMI ST79.
How often should the tank solution be replaced?

Replace after each batch when processing biological or high-residue samples; for general glassware cleaning, change every 8–12 hours of cumulative operation or when turbidity or odor develops.
Does Bandelin provide validation support for regulated environments?

Yes—Bandelin offers IQ/OQ protocol templates, calibration certificates, and technical white papers documenting performance verification against ISO 13076 (ultrasonic cleaning performance testing) and ASTM E1932 (acoustic power measurement).