Shumei KQ3200E Benchtop Ultrasonic Cleaner

Overview

The Shumei KQ3200E Benchtop Ultrasonic Cleaner is an entry-level, general-purpose laboratory cleaning system engineered for reproducible removal of particulate, organic, and light inorganic contaminants from precision components, glassware, surgical instruments, and small-volume labware. It operates on the principle of ultrasonic cavitation—where high-frequency (40 kHz) acoustic energy induces rapid formation and collapse of microscopic vapor bubbles in a liquid medium, generating localized shear forces and microstreaming that dislodge surface-bound residues without mechanical abrasion. Designed for routine QC labs, teaching laboratories, and R&D support environments, the KQ3200E delivers consistent cleaning performance across aqueous and mild solvent-based solutions, with integrated temperature control (0–80 °C) to optimize solubilization kinetics and enhance cleaning efficacy for temperature-sensitive applications.

Key Features

• Robust 304 stainless steel tank and housing ensure long-term corrosion resistance, structural integrity, and compatibility with common cleaning agents including alkaline detergents, ethanol, and isopropanol.
• Fixed-frequency 40 kHz transducer array provides uniform energy distribution across the 6 L tank volume, minimizing dead zones and ensuring consistent cavitation intensity throughout the cleaning cycle.
• Electromechanical timer with 1–60 minute adjustable intervals supports repeatable process validation; “continuous operation” mode is available for extended cleaning protocols requiring manual supervision.
• Integrated heating element (400 W) enables precise temperature regulation within ±2 °C accuracy over the full 0–80 °C range, supporting ASTM F312-22 and ISO 15883-5 compliant thermal-assisted cleaning workflows.
• Dedicated sound-dampening lid reduces ambient noise to ≤55 dB(A) at 1 m distance, meeting occupational safety thresholds for continuous use in shared laboratory spaces.
• Manual inlet and drain valves allow controlled solution exchange without external plumbing; stainless steel mesh basket and support rack are included for secure sample positioning and protection against direct tank contact.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The KQ3200E accommodates standard laboratory items including volumetric flasks, pipette tips, crucibles, watch glasses, microscope slides, and small metal tools (e.g., forceps, tweezers). Its 300 × 150 × 150 mm internal dimensions support stacked or multi-tiered loading configurations when used with optional accessories. The unit complies with IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emission limits) and IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity requirements), and its stainless steel construction satisfies ISO 13485-relevant material traceability criteria for medical device reprocessing support. While not certified for sterile processing per AAMI ST79, it meets baseline preparation requirements for subsequent autoclaving or chemical sterilization steps under GLP-aligned SOPs.

Software & Data Management

As a mechanically controlled instrument, the KQ3200E does not feature digital interfaces, embedded software, or data logging capabilities. All operational parameters—including time, temperature, and power activation—are set via analog dials and mechanical switches. This architecture eliminates firmware dependencies, simplifies validation documentation, and ensures uninterrupted operation during power fluctuations or electromagnetic interference. For laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11 requirements, manual logbook entries (time, temperature, duration, operator ID, lot number of cleaning solution) are recommended to establish audit-ready process records.

Applications

• Cleaning of HPLC vials, GC autosampler inserts, and syringe filters prior to analytical use.
• Removal of flux residues from printed circuit boards (PCBs) and microelectronic components during prototyping.
• Preparation of cell culture flasks and Petri dishes in academic and biotech teaching labs.
• Decontamination of reusable surgical instruments in low-throughput clinical support settings.
• Routine maintenance of optical components such as lenses and prisms where non-contact cleaning is essential.
• Supporting ASTM D2240 (durometer calibration) and ISO 48-4 (rubber hardness testing) sample conditioning protocols.

FAQ

Is the ultrasonic frequency adjustable?
No—the KQ3200E operates exclusively at a fixed frequency of 40 kHz, optimized for broad-spectrum contaminant removal in aqueous media.
Can this unit be used with flammable solvents?
No—due to the absence of explosion-proof certification and lack of solvent vapor monitoring, only water-based or non-flammable, low-volatility cleaning solutions are permitted.
Does the unit include a degassing function?
No—degassing must be performed manually by running the unit empty for 5–10 minutes prior to loading samples, per manufacturer-recommended startup procedure.
What is the expected service life of the transducers?
Under normal usage (≤4 hours/day, proper solution maintenance), the piezoelectric transducers typically maintain >90% nominal output for ≥5 years, consistent with industry benchmarks for sealed-ceramic transducer modules.
Is calibration required before first use?
No formal calibration is specified; however, users should verify temperature accuracy using a NIST-traceable thermometer and confirm timer deviation ≤±1% prior to initiating validated cleaning procedures.