Branson B8510E-MTH Ultrasonic Cleaner
| Brand | Branson |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | B8510E-MTH |
| Capacity | 5.68 L |
| Ultrasonic Frequency | 40 kHz |
| Ultrasonic Power Output | 200 W |
| Adjustable Power | Yes |
| Adjustable Temperature | Yes |
| Adjustable Timer | Yes |
| Sound-Dampening Lid | Included |
| Drain/Fill | Manual Control |
Overview
The Branson B8510E-MTH Ultrasonic Cleaner is an engineered laboratory-grade cleaning system designed for precision removal of particulate, organic, and oily contaminants from delicate and complex-surface components. It operates on the principle of acoustic cavitation: high-frequency (40 kHz) ultrasonic energy is transmitted into an aqueous or solvent-based cleaning bath via piezoelectric transducers mounted to the tank base. This generates controlled microbubble formation and implosive collapse—producing localized transient pressures exceeding 1000 atm and temperatures up to 5000 K at bubble interfaces. The resulting microjetting and shockwave propagation effectively dislodge submicron residues without mechanical abrasion or thermal degradation. As a general-purpose benchtop unit, the B8510E-MTH meets core requirements for routine lab maintenance, pre-analytical sample preparation, and post-processing validation in regulated environments.
Key Features
- Durable Langevin-type transducer assembly with metal-ceramic composite stack architecture—optimized for long-term stability and consistent energy coupling across variable load conditions.
- Stainless steel (304L) deep-drawn tank with seamless, corrosion-resistant construction; conformal heating element bonded directly to tank exterior ensures uniform thermal distribution and eliminates hot spots.
- Chemical-resistant polypropylene (PP) housing with integrated drip containment geometry—designed to withstand exposure to alcohols, acetone, alkaline detergents, and mild acidic solutions per ASTM D543 guidelines.
- Elevated control panel with sealed membrane switches and printed circuit board mounted above the tank plane—prevents liquid ingress, condensation accumulation, and electrolytic creep under humid operating conditions.
- Integrated sound-dampening lid with ergonomic latch mechanism—reduces ambient noise to ≤55 dB(A) at 1 m distance while maintaining vapor containment during heated operation.
- Independent digital controls for ultrasonic power (10–100% in 10% increments), bath temperature (room temp to 80 °C), and timer (1–99 min)—all calibrated traceable to NIST-certified references.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The B8510E-MTH accommodates a broad range of sample geometries—including pipette tips, glassware (vials, cuvettes, chromatography columns), surgical instruments, optical lenses, PCB assemblies, and MEMS devices—when placed in compatible mesh baskets or suspension fixtures. Its 5.68 L tank volume supports immersion of items up to 22.9 cm × 14.0 cm × 10.2 cm (L×W×H). The unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61010-1 (safety for laboratory equipment). For GxP applications, it supports audit-ready documentation when paired with validated cleaning protocols aligned with ISO 13485, USP , and FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data logging systems (via optional RS-232/USB interface).
Software & Data Management
While the B8510E-MTH operates as a standalone analog/digital hybrid controller, its programmable parameters are fully exportable via optional serial communication module. When integrated with Branson’s AcuClean™ software suite (v3.2+), users can define, store, and recall multi-step cleaning cycles—including ramped temperature profiles, pulsed ultrasonics, and hold phases—with timestamped event logs. All operational data—including power output history, thermal drift metrics, and cycle completion status—is recorded with GLP/GMP-compliant audit trails, including user ID authentication and electronic signature support.
Applications
This system is routinely deployed in analytical laboratories for preparatory cleaning prior to HPLC, ICP-MS, and SEM sample mounting; in pharmaceutical QC labs for residue removal from stainless-steel contact surfaces per FDA guidance on cleaning validation; in electronics manufacturing for flux residue elimination from SMT components; and in clinical diagnostics for decontamination of reusable endoscope accessories. Additional use cases include degassing mobile phase solvents, dispersion of nanomaterial suspensions, and cell lysis optimization studies where reproducible energy input is critical.
FAQ
Is the B8510E-MTH suitable for cleaning delicate optics or MEMS devices?
Yes—its 40 kHz frequency provides optimal balance between cavitation intensity and surface shear stress, minimizing risk of pitting or coating delamination when operated with low-power settings and non-aggressive chemistries.
Can the unit be used with flammable solvents?
No—this model is not explosion-proof and is rated only for aqueous and water-miscible solutions. Flammable solvent use requires Class I, Division 1 certified units (e.g., Branson CPX series with purge systems).
Does the tank have a drain valve for automated emptying?
No—the drain/fill function is manually operated via a front-panel hand valve; no solenoid or gravity-drain port is integrated.
What is the warranty coverage for the transducer assembly?
Branson provides a 2-year limited warranty on the Langevin transducer stack against defects in materials and workmanship under normal laboratory use conditions.
Is calibration documentation included with shipment?
A factory calibration certificate verifying time, temperature, and power linearity is supplied; full metrological traceability to NIST standards is available upon request (NIST-traceable calibration add-on service).
