Shumei KQ-SM Series Quiet-Operation Ultrasonic Cleaner
| Brand | Shumei |
|---|---|
| Origin | Jiangsu, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Equipment Category | Domestic |
| Model | KQ-SM |
| Instrument Type | General-Purpose |
| Tank Capacity | ≥10 L |
| Ultrasonic Frequency | kHz (typical range 40–80 kHz) |
| Ultrasonic Power Output | ≥250 W |
| Power Adjustment Range | 0–100% (stepless) |
| Temperature Control Range | Ambient to 80 °C |
| Timer Range | 0–24 h |
| Sound-Dampening Lid | Yes |
| Manual Fill/Drain System | Yes |
Overview
The Shumei KQ-SM Series Quiet-Operation Ultrasonic Cleaner is an engineered solution for precision cleaning of delicate laboratory components—including glassware, pipette tips, filtration membranes, microfluidic devices, and analytical sample holders—where low acoustic noise, thermal stability, and reproducible cavitation energy delivery are critical. It operates on the principle of high-frequency ultrasonic transduction (typically 40–80 kHz), generating controlled cavitation in aqueous or mild solvent-based cleaning media. The system employs piezoelectric transducers with high Q-factor design, ensuring minimal resonant impedance and superior electroacoustic conversion efficiency. Unlike conventional cleaners prone to harmonic distortion and localized hot spots, the KQ-SM series integrates matched driver electronics and optimized tank geometry to deliver uniform energy distribution across the entire cleaning volume. Its noise-reduction architecture—including a sealed sound-dampening lid, vibration-isolated transducer mounting, and acoustically damped stainless-steel housing—maintains operational sound pressure levels below 60 dB(A) at 1 m distance, meeting ISO 7779 and ANSI S1.4 requirements for quiet laboratory environments.
Key Features
- Stepless ultrasonic power control (0–100%) enabling precise energy modulation for sensitive substrates such as coated optics or MEMS components
- Digital touch-screen interface with real-time display of setpoint parameters (time, temperature, power) and operational status
- 304 stainless-steel tank and chassis—deep-drawn monolithic construction eliminates weld seams, enhancing corrosion resistance and cleanability per ISO 14644-1 Class 5 compatibility
- Integrated heating system (400 W) with PID-controlled temperature regulation (ambient to 80 °C ±1 °C), supporting enzymatic and alkaline cleaning protocols
- Programmable timer (0–24 h) with auto-shutdown and safety lockout upon lid opening or low-level detection
- Manual fill/drain port with quick-connect fitting and integrated liquid-level sensor for automatic cutoff during fill cycle
- Overtemperature, overcurrent, and dry-run protection circuits compliant with IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KQ-SM accommodates standard laboratory vessels up to 300 × 240 × 150 mm internal dimensions (10 L nominal capacity). Its non-aggressive, frequency-tuned cavitation profile is validated for use with borosilicate glass, fused silica, titanium alloys, and anodized aluminum—materials commonly found in HPLC flow cells, spectrophotometer cuvettes, and semiconductor wafer handling tools. The unit meets CE marking requirements under the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU). While not certified for sterile processing per ISO 13485, its design supports GLP-compliant cleaning validation when used with documented SOPs, traceable calibration records, and routine performance qualification (PQ) testing per ASTM E2810–21.
Software & Data Management
This model operates via embedded firmware without external PC dependency. All operational parameters—including start time, duration, set temperature, and power level—are stored in non-volatile memory with timestamped logging capability (last 100 cycles). Optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface (available upon request) enables integration into centralized lab equipment monitoring systems. Audit trail functionality complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software, supporting electronic signatures and user-access controls for regulated QC/QA workflows.
Applications
- Pre-analytical preparation of chromatography vials and autosampler needles to eliminate carryover contamination
- Removal of organic residues from NMR tubes and XRD sample holders without surface pitting
- Cleaning of optical filters and laser cavity components prior to spectral characterization
- Decontamination of reusable biosafety cabinet accessories (e.g., stainless steel trays, centrifuge buckets) between biological runs
- Supporting ASTM D4488 and ISO 15528 procedures for paint and coating substrate cleaning prior to adhesion testing
FAQ
What ultrasonic frequency does the KQ-SM operate at?
The unit is configured for fixed-frequency operation in the 40–80 kHz range; exact frequency is determined by transducer design and tank resonance characteristics and is specified per batch in the Certificate of Conformance.
Is the heater calibrated and traceable to national standards?
Yes—each unit undergoes factory calibration against NIST-traceable RTD references; calibration certificate is provided with shipment.
Can this cleaner be used with flammable solvents?
No. The KQ-SM is rated for aqueous and water-miscible solutions only. Use with volatile organic solvents requires explosion-proof certification (ATEX/IECEx), which this model does not possess.
Does it support continuous operation beyond 24 hours?
The timer is limited to 24 h per cycle; however, sequential programs may be initiated manually or via external relay control for extended cleaning protocols.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Biannual inspection of transducer bonding integrity, quarterly verification of temperature sensor accuracy, and routine descaling of the tank using 5% citric acid solution per manufacturer guidelines.
