Shumei KQ-100V Benchtop Ultrasonic Cleaner

Overview

The Shumei KQ-100V is a benchtop ultrasonic cleaner engineered for precision cleaning of delicate laboratory components—including glassware, pipette tips, microcentrifuge tubes, optical lenses, and small metal parts—under controlled thermal and temporal conditions. It operates on the principle of cavitation: high-frequency (40 kHz) acoustic energy transmitted through an aqueous or mild solvent medium generates microscopic vacuum bubbles that collapse with localized energy release, effectively dislodging particulate contaminants, organic residues, and biofilm without mechanical abrasion. Designed for routine QC/QA labs, academic research facilities, and instrument maintenance workshops, the KQ-100V delivers reproducible cleaning performance in a compact, self-contained unit with robust 304 stainless steel construction and integrated thermal management.

Key Features

• Stainless steel tank (300 × 150 × 130 mm) and housing fabricated from medical-grade 304 stainless steel for corrosion resistance, ease of decontamination, and long-term structural integrity.
• Dual 50 W piezoelectric transducers operating at a fixed 40 kHz frequency—optimized for balanced cavitation intensity and uniform energy distribution across the 5.8 L cleaning volume.
• PTC surface-mount heating system (400 W) enables precise temperature control from ambient to 80 °C, supporting thermally enhanced cleaning protocols for waxy, viscous, or proteinaceous soils.
• Microprocessor-based timer with 1–20 minute adjustable intervals ensures consistent exposure duration; circuitry includes automatic shutdown upon completion and over-temperature protection.
• Integrated auto-frequency sweeping function minimizes standing wave formation and hot/cold spots, improving cleaning uniformity and extending transducer service life.
• Removable sound-dampening lid reduces operational noise to <55 dB(A) at 1 m distance and enhances thermal retention during heated cycles.
• Manual fill-and-drain interface with quick-connect fittings allows safe, spill-free solution exchange—compatible with deionized water, ethanol, isopropanol, and low-surfactant aqueous formulations.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KQ-100V accommodates standard laboratory items up to 120 mm in height and 150 mm in width. Its open-tank architecture supports immersion of irregularly shaped tools, surgical instruments, filter housings, and semiconductor wafers (when used with compatible solvents). The unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission standards) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity requirements). While not certified for sterile processing per ISO 17664 or AAMI ST79, it meets general laboratory equipment safety requirements under GB 4793.1–2007 (Chinese equivalent of IEC 61010-1). For GLP/GMP environments, users may document operational parameters (time, temperature, bath composition) manually or via external logging systems.

Software & Data Management

The KQ-100V employs a dedicated electromechanical control system with no embedded software, cloud connectivity, or digital interface. All settings are configured via tactile rotary dials and LED indicators—ensuring deterministic operation, immunity to firmware failure, and full auditability of user inputs. This architecture aligns with laboratories requiring minimal validation burden, especially where electronic records are not mandated. For traceable process documentation, users may integrate external USB data loggers (e.g., HOBO UX100 series) to record bath temperature over time. No FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance is applicable due to absence of electronic signature or audit trail functionality.

Applications

• Routine cleaning of volumetric flasks, burettes, and graduated cylinders prior to calibration or titration.
• Preparation of HPLC and GC sample vials to eliminate carryover contamination between runs.
• Depyrogenation support: when paired with validated alkaline detergent solutions and post-rinse protocols, the unit contributes to endotoxin reduction on reusable labware.
• Maintenance of analytical balances, weighing boats, and electrode housings where particulate interference affects measurement stability.
• Surface preparation of substrates for thin-film deposition or contact angle analysis.
• Cleaning of reusable filtration assemblies (e.g., syringe filters, membrane holders) prior to sterilization by autoclaving or ethylene oxide.

FAQ

Is the ultrasonic frequency adjustable on the KQ-100V?
No. The unit operates exclusively at 40 kHz, a frequency selected for optimal balance between cavitation energy and penetration depth in aqueous media.
Can this unit be used with flammable solvents?
No. The KQ-100V lacks explosion-proof certification and should only be operated with non-flammable, water-based solutions or alcohols below their flash point—never with acetone, ether, or hydrocarbon solvents.
Does the unit include a filtration or recirculation system?
No. The KQ-100V uses a static bath configuration. Solution filtration must be performed externally using vacuum filtration or inline cartridge filters.
What is the maximum recommended load weight for the stainless steel mesh basket?
The included basket is rated for loads up to 1.5 kg; exceeding this may cause deformation and uneven energy coupling.
Is the heating element replaceable in-field?
Yes. The PTC heater module is accessible via rear-panel service cover and designed for modular replacement without soldering or calibration recalibration.