Elma Flex1 Upgraded Ultrasonic Cleaner

Overview

The Elma Flex1 Upgraded Ultrasonic Cleaner is a modular, high-performance benchtop and floor-standing ultrasonic cleaning system engineered for laboratories, R&D centers, and industrial quality control environments requiring reproducible, process-controlled cleaning of precision components. Based on Elma’s proprietary piezoelectric transducer technology and advanced generator architecture, the Flex1 operates on the principle of cavitation-induced mechanical energy transfer—generating controlled microbubble implosion within aqueous or solvent-based cleaning media to remove particulate, organic, and thin-film contaminants from complex geometries. Unlike fixed-configuration cleaners, the Flex1 platform integrates a standardized expansion slot enabling seamless coupling with auxiliary modules including spray rinse stations, vacuum drying chambers, oil-water separators, and closed-loop water recirculation systems—making it uniquely suited for multi-stage, GLP-compliant cleaning workflows in regulated sectors such as medical device manufacturing, aerospace component servicing, and pharmaceutical equipment maintenance.

Key Features

• Modular expansion architecture with standardized interface slot for integration of spray rinse, hot-air drying, oil separation, and water recycling units
• Multi-frequency ultrasonic generation (35 kHz standard; optional dual-frequency 25/45 kHz or 35/130 kHz configurations) to optimize cleaning efficacy across diverse substrate materials and contaminant types
• Digitally controlled power regulation (600–2000 W depending on model) with real-time feedback and dynamic load compensation
• Intuitive LCD interface displaying time, temperature, frequency selection, power level, and active mode (Sweep, Pulse, Degas)
• Five programmable cleaning protocols stored onboard for rapid recall and operator-independent execution
• Sweep mode modulates frequency ±2 kHz around nominal setpoint to eliminate standing wave nodes and ensure uniform energy distribution across tank volume
• Pulse mode delivers intermittent high-amplitude bursts (up to 150% peak power) for removal of tenacious residues without thermal degradation of sensitive parts
• Degas mode initiates low-power, low-frequency agitation to accelerate dissolved gas removal from cleaning solution—critical prior to high-intensity cleaning cycles
• Electropolished stainless steel tank (AISI 316L) and robust transducer mounting design validated for continuous operation under GMP-relevant duty cycles

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Flex1 accommodates substrates ranging from delicate optical lenses and MEMS sensors to heavy-duty machined metal assemblies and printed circuit boards. Its frequency-selectable operation ensures compatibility with soft polymers (e.g., PTFE, silicone), brittle ceramics, and corrosion-prone alloys (e.g., aluminum 6061, titanium Grade 5). All Flex1 variants comply with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC, Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU, and RoHS 2011/65/EU. Manufacturing adheres to ISO 9001:2015 quality management standards. When configured with data-logging software and audit-trail-enabled controllers, the system supports validation per ASTM F2798 (Standard Guide for Validation of Cleaning Processes for Reusable Medical Devices) and aligns with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures when deployed in regulated QC labs.

Software & Data Management

Optional Elma CleanControl™ software enables remote monitoring, parameter logging, and protocol synchronization across multiple Flex1 units. The software generates timestamped CSV reports containing cycle start/end times, temperature profiles, power delivery curves, and operator ID—facilitating traceability in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories. Full audit trail functionality includes user login history, parameter change logs, and electronic signature capture for critical cleaning steps. Integration with LabVantage LIMS and Siemens Desigo CCMS is supported via OPC UA and Modbus TCP protocols.

Applications

• Cleaning of surgical instruments and endoscopic components prior to sterilization (EN ISO 15883-1)
• Removal of flux residues and solder paste from PCB assemblies in electronics manufacturing
• Preparation of turbine blades and fuel injectors for non-destructive testing (NDT)
• Decontamination of analytical sample holders, crucibles, and HPLC flow cells
• Surface preparation of additive-manufactured metal parts prior to coating or metrology
• Validation of cleaning efficacy in biopharmaceutical facility CIP (Clean-in-Place) development studies

FAQ

What is the minimum and maximum working volume supported by the Flex1 platform?
The base Flex1 configuration starts at 30 L (X-tra 300 model); with modular tank extensions, total working volume scales up to 162 L (X-tra 1600 model).

Can the Flex1 be integrated into an automated production line?
Yes—via I/O terminals and optional PLC interface module (Elma IO-Link Kit), the Flex1 supports external start/stop commands, status signaling, and fault reporting compatible with Industry 4.0 architectures.

Is temperature control available across all frequency modes?
Yes—digital PID temperature regulation (range: ambient +5°C to 95°C, ±0.5°C accuracy) remains active regardless of selected ultrasonic frequency or operating mode (Sweep, Pulse, Degas).

Does Elma provide validation documentation for IQ/OQ/PQ protocols?
Elma supplies Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) reports and detailed technical specifications required for User Requirement Specification (URS) alignment; site-specific OQ/PQ support is delivered through certified Elma Field Service Engineers.

What cleaning agents are recommended for use with the Flex1?
Elma offers a full portfolio of pH-neutral, low-foaming, and residue-free aqueous cleaners (e.g., Elma Clean A2, Clean S3) validated for compatibility with ultrasonic cavitation and compliant with REACH Annex XIV restrictions.