Choosing the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner for NZ Jewellers and Workshops
In Auckland’s bustling jewellery district, a small workshop specialising in custom gold and silver pieces faced a common challenge: how to clean intricate designs efficiently without risking damage to delicate stones like opals and turquoise. After trialling various methods, they turned to an Elmasonic EASY ultrasonic cleaner, which transformed their workflow. The cleaner’s 37 kHz frequency and heated tank allowed them to remove polishing compounds and tarnish quickly, leaving their creations gleaming and ready for customers.
At Elma Ultrasonics NZ, we’ve worked with jewellers and workshops across the country since 1979, helping them choose the right ultrasonic cleaner for their needs. Whether you’re cleaning jewellery, watch components, or workshop tools, selecting the right model is crucial for achieving optimal results. Let’s explore the options and features that matter most for New Zealand’s jewellers and workshops.
Why Ultrasonic Cleaning is Essential for Jewellers and Workshops
Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create microscopic bubbles in a cleaning solution, a process known as cavitation. These bubbles gently scrub away dirt, grease, and polishing compounds from surfaces, even reaching intricate crevices and delicate areas. For jewellers, this means restoring the brilliance of gold, silver, and gemstones without manual scrubbing. For workshops, ultrasonic cleaning ensures tools and components are free from grease, oil, and other contaminants, improving performance and longevity.
Key Features to Consider
Tank Size and Capacity
The size of the ultrasonic cleaner’s tank is a critical factor. For jewellers, smaller tanks like the Elmasonic EASY 30H (2.75 L) are perfect for cleaning ring trays and small batches. Workshops handling larger tools or components may require a medium-sized tank, such as the Elmasonic P180H (18 L).
Frequency
Frequency determines the intensity of cleaning. The Elmasonic EASY series operates at 37 kHz, ideal for general jewellery cleaning and removing polishing pastes. For jewellers working with delicate stones like opals, pearls, or turquoise, the Elmasonic P series offers dual frequencies: 37 kHz for standard cleaning and 80 kHz for gentler cleaning of sensitive items.
Heating
Heated ultrasonic cleaners, such as the Elmasonic EASY 30H, allow you to set temperatures between 30°C and 80°C. Heating enhances cleaning efficiency by loosening stubborn contaminants like grease and polishing compounds. However, for temperature-sensitive items, ensure the liquid doesn’t exceed 42°C to avoid damage.
Ultrasonic Modes
Advanced models like the Elmasonic P series feature multiple ultrasonic modes, including Sweep for even power distribution, Pulse for increased cleaning intensity, and Degas for removing air bubbles from the cleaning solution. These modes optimise cleaning for different applications, from jewellery to workshop tools.
Accessories
Ultrasonic cleaner accessories like insert baskets, beaker positioning covers, and cooling coils can enhance your cleaning process. For example, a beaker positioning cover is ideal for cleaning small items like watch components or jewellery pieces.
Choosing the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner
For jewellers, the Elmasonic EASY series is a reliable choice for general jewellery cleaning. Its 37 kHz frequency and heated options make it suitable for gold, silver, and hard stones. For workshops and jewellers handling delicate items, the Elmasonic P series offers versatility with dual frequencies and advanced cleaning modes.
When selecting a model, consider the size of the items you’ll be cleaning. A good rule of thumb is to choose a tank 20% larger than your largest item to ensure effective cavitation. For jewellers, smaller tanks like the Elmasonic EASY 30H or P30H are ideal. Workshops may benefit from larger models like the Elmasonic P180H or P300H.
Optimising Your Cleaning Results
Use the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner Solution
Pairing your ultrasonic cleaner with the right solution is essential. For jewellery, Super Clean is specifically formulated for gold, silver, and hard stones. For workshops, solutions like Allkleen Dairy are effective for removing grease, oil, and carbon deposits.
Maintenance Tips
- Replace the cleaning solution every 1–2 weeks to avoid contamination.
- Use distilled water to prevent mineral deposits in the tank.
- Clean the tank regularly to maintain performance.
Test Before You Buy
If you’re unsure which model suits your needs, take advantage of our free cleaning trial. Send us a sample item, and we’ll clean it using the recommended equipment and solution. Contact us at info@elma-ultrasonic.co.nz to arrange your trial.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best ultrasonic cleaner for jewellery?
Can ultrasonic cleaners damage delicate stones?
What size ultrasonic cleaner should I choose?
Do I need a heated ultrasonic cleaner?
What ultrasonic cleaner solution should I use for jewellery?
For nearly 38 years, Tim Fastnedge has been a driving force behind Techspan’s expertise in ultrasonic cleaning equipment. His knowledge of ultrasonic cleaners is extensive, allowing him to recommend the most effective cleaning solution for any application.
Tim’s dedication extends beyond sales; he’s passionate about empowering customers with the right tools to achieve optimal cleaning results. So when it comes to Elma Ultrasonics New Zealand’s range of high-quality equipment, look no further than Tim’s expertise at Techspan.
