A common question regarding ultrasonic cleaners is: what is degassing?
Explained simply, degassing is the removal of microscopic air bubbles from the cleaning fluid in an ultrasonic tank. This is achieved by running the machine through a specific on / off sequence. On for 5 minutes and the off for 3 minutes etc.
Fluid gets “gassed” when a tank is filled with water. It’s like filling a bath at home. The action of water coming out of the tap draws air down into the body of the water in the bath itself. Obviously large visible bubbles surface immediately. But smaller bubbles remain suspended in the fluid. It is these microscopic bubble that need removing.
Degas fluid whenever it is changed. This quickly removes air from the liquid that in turn, makes the cleaning process more effective. This is especially useful when cleaning carburettors and anything with small holes or bores.
The great thing about degassed fluid is its increased ability to clean blind holes. The water inside a hole (cavity) in the item that you’re cleaning is just as efficient as the water outside it, thus leading to a very thorough cleaning action.
Ultrasonic cleaners with a degassing function tend to have digital controls. This also makes them a bit more expensive to buy that an analogue (dial control) model. However, with digital control comes extended cleaning times which can be useful when cleaning old carburettors.
You can see some machines with degassing functions here.
