More Temperature Sensors – Electrical

Preceding blogs have described a number of mechanical means for measuring temperature based on the expansion and contraction of liquids and solids.  Another major classification of temperature sensors are based on electrical phenomenon. Thermocouples – A thermocouple sensor utilizes a junction of two dissimilar metals to measure temperature.  The principle is based on the fact that an …

Temperature Sensors

In preceding blogs I have identified temperature as probably the single most important variable in a cleaning process.  Devices that sense and control temperature, therefore, are a critical part of a cleaning system.  Let’s take a quick look at a few of the types of temperature sensors that are available and suggest where each is applicable …

Automation – Automated Hoist

An automated hoist is probably the most commonly used means of moving parts through the steps of an automated immersion cleaning process.  These hoists come in almost unlimited variations but have in common that they can move a basket or rack of parts in two dimensions along the axis of a multi-station cleaning system.  Although the hoist suspension can …

Automation – Walking Beams and Pushers

As in nearly any decision making process, one must consider the options available and the pros and cons of each for industrial parts cleaning automation.  The next few blogs will describe some of the automation options that are available for industrial parts cleaning along with their benefits and potential shortfalls. Walking beams and “pushers” have …

Automation – Load and Unload

This series of blogs about automation will address automation as an “add-on” or accessory to an existing or planned cleaning system.  In many cleaning systems, automation, or at least partial automation, is an integral part of the system as it is required for effective cleaning process.  This is especially true of spray washers which often rely …

Automation – Introduction

Many cleaning systems are automated.  There are a number of benefits that can be realized through automation – Reduced labor cost Increased throughput Improved process consistency Reduced Labor Cost The cleaning process is inherently labor intensive.  Parts to be cleaned must be prepared and fixtured or put into suitable carriers.  They must then be moved …

What is a “Closed Loop” cleaning system?

The ultimate “closed-loop” cleaning system would produce no effluents requiring disposal. In many manufacturing facilities, disposing of waste liquid containing chemicals and other contaminants removed from parts being cleaned is either very costly or just not possible using municipal sewer or other available facilities.  Even in the best cases, most cleaning system effluents require pre-treatment prior …

Ultrasonics – Frequency vs. Exposure Time

The blog about maximizing the effect of multiple frequency ultrasonics explained in some detail the mechanics of cleaning using multiple ultrasonic frequencies and the benefits of sequencing through a series of frequencies multiple times to achieve maximum cleaning effect.  This blog will further explore these benefits especially in cases where extended exposure of a part …