Branson M5800-C Benchtop Ultrasonic Cleaner

Overview

The Branson M5800-C is a precision-engineered benchtop ultrasonic cleaner designed for reproducible, high-efficiency cleaning of delicate laboratory components, analytical instrumentation parts, optical elements, and small-volume sample containers. It operates on the principle of acoustic cavitation: a 40 kHz transducer generates high-frequency pressure waves in the cleaning solution, inducing controlled microbubble formation and collapse (cavitation) at solid–liquid interfaces. This physical mechanism effectively dislodges particulate contaminants, organic residues, and loosely adhered biofilms without mechanical abrasion or thermal degradation—making it ideal for pre-analytical sample preparation, QC/QA validation workflows, and maintenance of sensitive metrology hardware.

Key Features

• Digital microprocessor control with real-time display of set and actual bath temperature (range: ambient to 80 °C), timer (1–99 minutes), and power level (10–100% adjustable in 10% increments)
• Corrosion-resistant construction: 304 stainless steel tank interior and polypropylene (PP) external housing—chemically inert to common aqueous and mild solvent-based cleaning solutions (e.g., IPA/water mixtures, alkaline detergents, enzymatic formulations)
• Langevin-type piezoelectric transducers bonded directly to the tank bottom using aerospace-grade epoxy—ensuring long-term mechanical stability and consistent energy coupling across the entire tank surface
• Spherical wave propagation design optimized to minimize standing-wave nodes and deliver uniform cavitation intensity throughout the 9.5 L working volume (290 × 240 × 150 mm internal dimensions)
• Vertical PCB layout with conformal coating and elevated control panel placement—reducing moisture ingress risk during routine operation and spill events
• Integrated sound-dampening lid with integrated drip tray function and manual drain valve—enabling safe, rapid fluid removal while minimizing operator exposure to aerosols and noise (typical SPL < 65 dB(A) at 1 m)
• Calibrated fill line etched into tank wall—ensuring optimal transducer coupling and acoustic efficiency at standard operating volume

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The M5800-C accommodates a wide range of labware including HPLC vials, syringe filters, pipette tips, crucibles, microscope slides, semiconductor wafers (≤4″), and glassware up to 250 mL capacity. Its non-aggressive cleaning mechanism preserves dimensional integrity and surface finish of precision-machined or coated substrates. The unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission limits) and IEC 61010-1 (safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use). When operated with validated cleaning protocols, it supports GLP-compliant documentation workflows—including manual audit trails for time, temperature, and power settings—and is routinely deployed in laboratories adhering to ASTM D2603 (Standard Test Method for Sonic Shear Stability of Lubricating Oils) and ISO 13485 cleanroom maintenance procedures.

Software & Data Management

As a standalone analog-digital hybrid instrument, the M5800-C does not feature network connectivity or embedded software. All operational parameters are configured and monitored via front-panel membrane keypad and dual-line LCD. However, its deterministic control architecture enables full traceability: each cleaning cycle is defined by three immutable user inputs (duration, temperature setpoint, power level), all of which are retained in volatile memory until overwritten. For regulated environments requiring electronic records, integration with external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-DAQPRO-5300 series) via 4–20 mA or 0–5 V analog outputs (optional accessory) satisfies FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with appropriate validation documentation.

Applications

• Pre-injection cleaning of HPLC/GC autosampler vials and needle seats to eliminate carryover artifacts
• Removal of solder flux and particulate debris from PCB assemblies prior to AOI inspection
• Decontamination of reusable filtration housings and membrane support discs between batches
• Surface activation of PDMS microfluidic chips prior to plasma bonding
• Routine maintenance of viscometer spindles, rheometer geometries, and particle sizers’ flow cells
• ISO Class 5–7 cleanroom component cleaning per USP environmental monitoring standards

FAQ

What is the recommended cleaning solution for general-purpose use with the M5800-C?

A 1–2% concentration of non-ionic, low-foaming detergent (e.g., Alconox Liquinox or Decon 90) in deionized water is validated for most metal, glass, and ceramic substrates. Avoid chloride-containing or strongly acidic solutions unless compatibility has been confirmed.
Can the M5800-C be used with flammable solvents?

No. The unit is not explosion-proof and lacks intrinsically safe circuitry. Only aqueous or water-miscible solvents with flash points >60 °C should be used.
How often should the transducer bond integrity be verified?

Visual inspection of bond lines is recommended quarterly; performance verification (cavitation intensity mapping per ASTM E1552) is advised annually or after 2,000 operating hours.
Is the drain valve compatible with standard laboratory waste collection systems?

Yes—the 1/4″ NPT female outlet accepts standard polypropylene or PTFE-lined tubing and connects directly to acid-resistant floor drains or secondary containment vessels.
Does Branson provide IQ/OQ documentation templates for the M5800-C?

Yes—validated installation and operational qualification protocols (including calibration checklists for temperature sensor accuracy ±0.5 °C and timer deviation ≤±0.5%) are available upon request from Branson Technical Support (US-based).