Ningbo Scientz SB-50 Digital Ultrasonic Cleaner
| Brand | Scientz |
|---|---|
| Origin | Zhejiang, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Instrument Type | General-Purpose Ultrasonic Cleaner |
| Tank Capacity | 0.8 L |
| Ultrasonic Frequency | 40 kHz |
| Ultrasonic Power Output | 50 W |
| Power Adjustment | Fixed |
| Temperature Control | Not Available |
| Timer Adjustment | Adjustable (1–120 min) |
| Sound-Dampening Lid | Included |
| Drain/Fill Port | Not Equipped |
Overview
The Ningbo Scientz SB-50 Digital Ultrasonic Cleaner is a compact, general-purpose benchtop ultrasonic cleaning system engineered for precision and reliability in routine laboratory workflows. It operates on the principle of piezoelectric transduction: high-frequency electrical energy (40 kHz) is converted into mechanical vibrations via ceramic transducers bonded to the stainless-steel tank base. These vibrations propagate through the cleaning medium—typically aqueous or mild solvent-based solutions—generating controlled acoustic cavitation. Microscopic vacuum bubbles form, grow, and collapse asymmetrically near solid surfaces, producing localized transient pressures exceeding 1000 atm and micro-jets with velocities up to 400 km/h. This physical mechanism enables non-contact removal of particulate contaminants, organic residues, biofilms, and adsorbed layers without mechanical abrasion or thermal degradation—making it ideal for delicate substrates including optical components, microfluidic devices, and precision instrumentation.
Key Features
- Digital timer with 1–120 minute adjustable interval and real-time countdown display for precise process repeatability
- Integrated sound-dampening lid to reduce ambient noise and prevent solvent evaporation during operation
- Stainless-steel tank (inner and outer walls) and lid construction for corrosion resistance, structural integrity, and long-term chemical compatibility
- Automatic shutdown upon timer completion, eliminating risk of over-processing or dry-run damage
- Power interruption memory function: retains last-set time parameter after brief power loss, supporting GLP-aligned procedural continuity
- Fixed 50 W ultrasonic output at 40 kHz—optimized for balance between cleaning efficacy and sample safety across common lab applications
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SB-50 accommodates standard laboratory consumables including glassware (vials, cuvettes, pipette tips), metal components (surgical instruments, watch gears), optical elements (lens assemblies, quartz cuvettes), and polymer-based substrates (microtiter plates, PDMS chips). Its design conforms to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission limits) and meets CE marking requirements for laboratory equipment safety. While not certified for sterile processing per ISO 13485 or FDA 21 CFR Part 820, the unit supports GxP-aligned cleaning validation protocols when integrated into documented SOPs—particularly where ultrasonic pretreatment precedes autoclaving or chemical sterilization. No internal heating element is present; temperature-sensitive samples remain within ambient thermal limits (< 35 °C rise typical under standard operating conditions).
Software & Data Management
This model operates as a standalone hardware system with no embedded firmware, network interface, or data logging capability. All operational parameters are set manually via front-panel push-button controls and displayed on a 3-digit LED screen. The absence of software dependency ensures deterministic behavior, eliminates cybersecurity concerns, and simplifies IQ/OQ qualification in regulated environments. For audit-trail compliance, users are advised to record timer settings, bath composition, and cycle duration in laboratory notebooks or electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) aligned with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. No calibration certificate is supplied; however, frequency stability and power output consistency may be verified using ASTM E1739-compliant hydrophone-based metrology.
Applications
- Cleaning of glassware and plastic labware prior to analytical use (e.g., HPLC vial preparation, cell culture flask decontamination)
- De-gassing of solvents and reagent solutions to eliminate dissolved air bubbles affecting spectroscopy or chromatography baseline stability
- Cell lysis and homogenization support for RNA/DNA extraction protocols, particularly in combination with enzymatic or chemical lysis steps
- Pre-cleaning of optical components—including microscope objectives, spectrometer mirrors, and fiber-optic connectors—to restore transmission efficiency
- Removal of machining oils, polishing compounds, and oxide films from precision-engineered parts in R&D prototyping labs
- Supporting ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing labs in sample preparation workflows requiring traceable, repeatable cleaning steps
FAQ
Is the SB-50 suitable for cleaning surgical instruments in clinical settings?
It is intended for laboratory-grade cleaning—not terminal sterilization. Use only as a pre-cleaning step before validated sterilization methods (e.g., autoclaving, ethylene oxide).
Can I use flammable solvents such as acetone or ethanol in this unit?
No. The SB-50 lacks explosion-proof certification and thermal cutoffs. Only aqueous or low-volatility, non-flammable cleaning solutions are permitted.
Does the unit include a heater or temperature control?
No. The SB-50 operates at ambient temperature only. For heated cleaning, consider Scientz’s HT-series models with PID-controlled thermostatic systems.
How often should the transducers be serviced or replaced?
Under normal usage (≤4 hrs/day), transducer lifespan exceeds 10,000 operating hours. Visual inspection for delamination or audible anomalies (e.g., uneven cavitation noise) is recommended quarterly.
Is there a warranty or service support available outside China?
Scientz provides a 12-month limited warranty. International technical support is coordinated through authorized regional distributors—contact information is provided with shipment documentation.
