Best ultrasonic cleaner UK [Guide & Reviews} - Parts washer reviews (2024)

Posted by Karl | Feb 2, 2021 | Parts cleaning

What is an ultrasonic parts cleaner?

Here we will look at some of the best ultrasonic cleaner options that are readily available in the UK for cleaning bike parts, jewellery, and automotive use.

The term ultrasonic is used for sound waves that have a frequency higher than the audibility limit of human ears.

Editors top picks for 2021

Ultrasonic machine testing in progress!

Where ever possible we will always have first hand knowledge of the machines that we review and do our best to test as many of the products that we recommend as possible.

If a test sample is unavailable then thorough market research is performed before putting forward our verdict.

Below is a photo of us testing the smaller capacity DK Sonic ultrasonic cleaner on some old jewellery and watch components.

This particular model is manufactured in China but is easily available to buy in the UK in variety of different sizes. The DK range makes up one of our top picks for 2021 for its simplicity and effectiveness at cleaning.

We tested the DK Sonic ultrasonic cleaner for several cycles. The results we got below were after 3 cycles of 90 second blasts. Other than patting dry with a cloth, we didn’t need to polish the metal after being in the DK sonic ultrasonic cleaner.

Very impressive results on some tarnished brass shown below!

Ultrasonic parts cleaner machines are widely recognised as one of the best cleaning methods in the UK for automotive components (e.g carbs and engine casings)

as well as other larger items such as bike parts such as chains and other small bicycle components due to it’s low cost effectiveness on both rust and road grime.

Ultrasonic parts cleaners employ ultrasound (usually within the frequency range 27–40 kHz) to agitate a fluid which in turn removes grease from contaminated objects like chains, bike cassettes, gears, other greasy parts, etc.

Ultrasonic cleaner – UK reviews in 2021

Commercial Ultrasonic Cleaner – DK SONIC 6L 180W

Product Link: Amazon Link

This is an extremely popular ultrasonic cleaner that is stocked in the UK for bike parts and restoration projects due to the 6L tank, it is one of the best options at present in the UK.

This, along side the PS-30AD (above) are the most purchased units for bicycle maintenance and parts cleaning and a common accessory found in bike repair shops and small garages.

It is a heavy-duty and moisture proofed machine that enjoys a longer service life due to its anti-corrosion material. The maximum temperature can go up to 80°C and it is adjustable.

The ultrasonic machine, using frequency, can reach the most awkwardly accessible crevices, blind holes, and deep holes.

The digital display and other electronic features like auto-standby and sleep mode makes it very easy to use.

The capacity is good enough for putting bike chains, cassettes etc together. It will also fit large carbs and other larger engine components.

Best used for

Whilst this is ideal for the cleaning of large parts. It also suits other cleaning uses such as metal parts, carburettors, fuel injectors, circuit boards, brass, engine parts, tableware, home repair tools, etc

Pros

• Very powerful. Works on almost anything.
• Adjustable temperature with a cut-off
• A good heater that works fast

Cons

This unit has very few negatives. It is popular for its reliability and versatility. At sub £200 this unit offers good value for money.

• The unit is fairly loud when running (but even small ultrasonic machines can be as the lids usually vibrate!)

Read reviews

Ultrasonic Cleaning Machine – PS-30AD

Industrial Grade 6L 180W Digital Heated Ultrasonic Cleaner in the UK

Product Link: Amazon Link

This compact washer has widespread uses for cleaning. With a 6L tank it is best for cleaning larger parts such as bicycle components, automotive, carbs, pistons etc whilst offering outstanding value.

This cleaner uses double-frequency ultrasonic power, 28 kHz is used for overall clean, 40 kHz for precise clean. It also has a digital timer control that is easy to use, 0-99 minutes, standby and suspend mode.

Best used for

The 6L tank allows for multiple uses however it works very well for Bike parts and other larger components found during vehicle restoration projects.

It is great for such as cassettes, bearings, chains, spindles and nuts and bolts requiring a refresh.

The PS-30AD is used by bicycle shops and automotive enthusiasts in the UK for cleaning hard to reach places. It speeds up the cleaning process and reduces labour time.

Most components are adequately cleaned within 3 to 6 minutes.

For heavy grime you can run it for up to 30 minutes however using a stronger solution (with a decent ultrasonic concentrate) will complete the job in a much shorter time.

The test

We tested one of the 6L capacity machines on a few pieces of dirty jewellery to see what results we could get. We wanted to see how it performed on a range on materials. Here we tried silver, brass, plastic, painted surfaces and a gem stone.

Before test

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After test

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The vertdict

Pros

• Can also be used for a variety of household goods from metals to plastics as well as bike components and carbs.
• Can reach cracks and crevices that cannot be cleaned by other methods
• Gives good results with all types of solutions including water, vinegar, soap, etc. Best results however are by use of an ultrasonic concentrate.
• This is a commercial grade machine and exceptionally reliable, suits heavy use very well.

Cons

The PS-30AD does not have many cons. It is slightly dearer than others in this range however the features, tank size and industrial ability does justify the slightly higher price tag.

• Keep in mind that for some of the larger bike components and automotive parts, 6L can still be quite limiting however you can rotate larger items to clean a side at a time

Read reviews

iSonic P4820-WSB Commercial Ultrasonic Cleaner, 2.6Qt/2.5L, White Color, Stainless Steel Wire Mesh Basket, 110V

Product Link: Amazon Link

This comes in 4 models with varying tank capacity. You can pick one according to your need. Works well for all kinds of greased vehicle parts, bicycle chains, cassettes and chainrings very well.

The smaller capacity machines are also a popular choice for watch repairs and jewellery cleaning.

It comes with an inbuilt heater that has a pre-set temperature of 65°C.This is a good temperature for lifting grease off engine components and reduces the need for chemicals.

In addition to this, there is a cooling fan that keeps the machine cool during long runs. It is advisable to not run this for more than 30 minutes at a time, make sure it cools between long cycles.

Best used for

Bike parts, bicycle cassettes and chainrings, jewellery, eyeglasses, watch cleaning

Pros

• Works for anything that fits in the tank including hockey mouth guard, shock bodies/shafts
• Eco-friendly biofluid works well in cleaning the toughest grime.

Cons

• High noise levels
• The longest timer setting is 15 minutes which is not enough for certain parts

Read reviews

Yosoo 3L Ultrasonic Cleaner Machine

Product Link: Amazon Link

This is also a very popular ultrasonic cleaner for bike parts and is a similar design to the DK Sonic above. Yosoo are ultrasonic cleaner manufacturers based in China but hold stock in the UK and delivery time is circa 3 days.

This is a robust stainless steel ultrasonic cleaning machine with a digital heater and timer. It is available in varying capacity from 3L to 30 L.

The rustproof machine is not just sturdy in looks but has some really powerful features like transducers that increases the potency of ultrasonic vibrations. At 30 minutes,

The cycle duration is longer than most machines. The 40KHz frequency ensures a quick cleaning and the adjustable temperature goes up to 80°C

Pros

• Robust, versatile and value for money
• Cleans heavy and tough grease effectively

Cons

• The power plug comes with a euro and not UK sockets. UK users will have to buy an additional adaptor.
• The capacity is less than mentioned. In a 3L machine, you can fit only one carb at a time.

Read reviews

FLOUREON 3L Ultrasonic Cleaner Automatic Cleaning Machine

Product Link: Amazon Link

This is another sturdy machine ideal for bike parts cleaning that can heat up to 80°C and work for the toughest of grease and grime contamination.

It can be used for a wide range of objects from glasses to carburettors and can work wonders. It comes with a 60 day refund and 12 months exchange.

Best used for

Cleaning eyeglass frame, capacitors, chains, charms, Carburettor, perfect for electronics manufacturing, jewellery manufacturing, scientific lab, medical &dental labs, auto Industry, and any other place you need.

Pros

• Wide usage. Can be used for electronics too
• 12 months exchange policy gives a lot of confidence in the machine.

Cons

• Actual capacity less than 3L and some carburettors may not fit in the tank well.

Read reviews

Life Basis 2.5L Ultrasonic Cleaner

Product Link: Amazon Link

This is a compact ultrasonic cleaner stocked in the UK and is great for cleaning bicycle parts. Small capacity but powerful. However, with a frequency under 40 Hz you can also use it for slightly delicate objects like DVDs, printer heads.

The inbuilt cooling fan prevents overheating, and the display panel makes it super easy to use.

Pros

• Aesthetic product. Looks pretty in your room.
• Works for both Euro and UK sockets.

Cons

• Struggles in cleaning silver items
• Temperature not in user control. You cannot adjust it to the need.

Read reviews

How does ultrasonic cleaning work?

Ultrasonic parts cleaning machines are powered by electricity. They all have a solution tank that is filled with water-based solutions (non-flammable) of various sizes ranging from small (500ml) right the way up to huge dip tanks used in commerce.

The better ultrasonic cleaners have additional settings and features such as temperature control switches, timers, degas settings and so on. The larger solution tank also dictates the price that you will pay.

Once the power is switched on,cavitation bubbles are induced by high-frequency sound waves that are usually between 27khz and 40khz to agitate the water based liquid solution.

The agitation produces high forces on contaminants adhering to substrates like metals, plastics, glass, rubber, and ceramics.

This action also penetrates blind holes, cracks, and recesses. With pressure, temperature, and ultrasound waves, the grime is broken and washed off the contaminated surface.

What can ultrasonic cleaners be used for?

• Bicycle parts and small components such as nuts and bolts
• Cleaning awide range of workpiece shapes, sizes, and materials (metals, plastics, rubber, etc.)
• Sports equipment and vehicles – bike parts, scuba diving, golf balls, etc.
• Parts of bikes and automobiles like carburettors and car injectors
• Home uses – cleaning jewellery (diamond, crystal, silver), eyeglasses, watches, and dentures
• Cleaning firearms (handgun, pistol, revolver), lawnmowers, pressure cleaners, gear, tools, etc.
• Dental equipment, brass music instruments
• Fruits and vegetables
• Cleaning industrial equipment like gas air compressors

Pros of ultrasonic cleaning

• A fast method of cleaning a variety of objects – household or commercial
• Works for most materials like metal, plastic, rubber, and polymer.
• Can clean difficult to access cracks and blind holes.

Cons of ultrasonic cleaning

• The solvent must be drained. This can cause damage to the environment
• Since electricity is used, petroleum-based solvents cannot be used as they can easily catch fire
• The high-frequency sound waves can damage electronic components such as gyroscopes, microphones, etc. if they are cleaned in the machine.

Ultrasonics for bike chain cleaning

Ultrasonic machines work well for cleaning both bike parts and bicycle chains, cassette, and chainrings. Bicycle chains especially are hard to clean the inner rings and links using conventional methods (IE a cloth and spray).

Ultrasonic machines are recognised as one of the best methods to clean chains as it requires minimal labour time. For this reason, ultrasonic cleaner machines are used in the UK by professionals and enthusiasts.

To get the best result it is usually recommended that you wash all parts separately unless you have a large solution tank that allows items to be placed without touching one another.

Items should never be stacked or covered in an ultrasonic cleaner as this prevents the ultrasonic waves from reaching every surface.

Depending on the amount of grease and other grime, set the timer and maintain the water temperature. The dirtier the object then the warmer the water should be and longer the cleaning cycle you should use.

If you have an O ring chain (or any item that contains rubber or plastics, be careful not to go too hot on the settings.

Some tough dirt may remain on the parts after the ultrasound process. Use a scrubbing brush or metal cleaning cloth to finish the job.

Are ultrasonic cleaners eco-friendly?

Ultrasonic cleaners use water mixed with low levels of detergent or surfactants. Draining the chemicals after use does pose a threat to the environment.

However, there are biodegradable fluids available that offer a green alternative. Apart from that, there is no emission from the system, and it is way more eco-friendly than alternative solvents.

Is ultrasonic cleaning safe?

Ultrasonic cleaning is mostly safe and is a widely used technology both for Industrial and home use in the UK.

The following points however are risks associated with the technology

• Use of abrasive solutions and touching the contaminated part for scrubbing out the tough stains
• Using petroleum-based degreasers. They are inflammable and can cause a fire in the machine that is operated by electricity.
• There is a vibration noise from the running machine that can create problems for overly sensitive people in larger machines.

The above situations can be easily avoided with a little mindfulness.

How to use an ultrasonic cleaner

• Fill water in the cleaner tank to the recommended level. If there is a heat setting adjust accordingly. Use a lower setting for rubber or plastics.
• Add a degreasing liquid (Usually 1 to 10 ratio to water but this does vary based on the concentrate you buy so follow the instructions)
• Connect the cleaning machine to an electrical outlet and set to degas for roughly 5 minutes. This removes any gas from the solution which can cause damage to your components.
• Drop the components into the solution in the tank, make sure they are placed with space around each item so that the waves can reach all surfaces.
• Set the timer on your ultrasonic cleaner. 8 minutes is usually enough but if the components are still dirty, run it for 2 cycles.
• After the process, immerse the chain in warm water to wash the traces of degreaser.
• Repeat the process as necessary.

The best way to use an ultrasonic cleaner

Ultrasonic parts cleaner machines can be used with just water on bike parts, but for the best result the use of a solvent enhances and speeds up the effect.

You can buy purpose made concentrate fluid in the UK for less than £10 on amazon which is then mixed with water.

Similarly, the temperature can be increased depending on the toughness of the stains. Ultrasound waves with a hot solution expedite the process.

A cleaning cycle normally lasts between three and six minutes, but can also exceed 20 minutes, depending on the object level of dirt.

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