Qsonica Q55 Sonicator Ultrasonic Processor Instruction Manual

Please read the manual in its entirety. Necessary instruction and guidance are provided to help ensure the successful operation of this device. Observe the following:

High voltage is present in the generator (power supply), converter and high frequency cable. There are no userserviceable parts inside any of these devices. Do NOT attempt to remove the generator cover or converter case.

Do NOT touch any open cable connections on the unit while the power is turned ON.
Do NOT operate generator with converter disconnected from high voltage cable. High voltage is present in the cable and may pose a shock hazard.

Do NOT attempt to disconnect the converter high voltage cable while the unit is running.
The generator must be properly grounded with a 3-prong plug. Test electrical outlet for proper grounding prior to plugging in unit.

Install the Sonicator in an area free from excessive dust, dirt, explosive or corrosive fumes and protected from extremes in temperature and humidity. Do not place the Generator within a Fume Hood.
Hearing protection is highly recommended. It is recommended that a sound abating enclosure or ear protection be used when operating the Ultrasonic Processor

NEVER immerse the converter in liquids of any kind, or let condensed moisture or liquid drip into the converter.
NEVER grasp an activated horn or touch the tip of a vibrating probe. It can cause severe burns and tissue damage.

NEVER allow a probe to vibrate in air.
NEVER hold or clamp the converter by the front driver or by the horn itself. This can cause permanent damage to the system. Support the converter by only clamping around the converter housing (upper portion).

Do NOT allow the tip of a vibrating horn or probe to touch the counter top or any other hard surface. It could damage the probe, overload the generator, or damage the surface.
Avoid touching the bottom or sides of a sample vessel with an activated probe. It may crack or shatter the glass or melt the plastic. Use glassware that is free from cracks or chips.

Turn OFF the power switch, unplug the generator and disconnect the power cord from the back of the generator before attempting to replace the fuses.
Inspect high frequency cable for cracks in the protective outer jacket.

Do not operate unit with a damaged cable. Doing so may cause serious injury.
In case of AC power loss, wait 3 minutes minimum before reapplying power.

Do not turn off Main power switch while running a probe. Stop sonication by lowering intensity setting knob to 0 or release thumb switch.

Symbols

Caution, Risk of electric shock, Hazardous voltage.

Caution, Risk of danger. Refer to User Manual.

SPECIFICATIONS

AC Adapter
Input Voltage	90 VAC – 264 VAC @ 50/60 Hz 1.5A
Output Voltage	24V DC, 3.75A
Rated Power	90 Watts

Power Supply
Input Voltage	24 VDC
Rated Power	55 Watts
Weight	3 lbs. (1.36 Kg)
Dimensions	8″W x 7.5″L x 5.75″H200mm x 190mm x 146mm
Output Voltage	250 VRMS
Output Frequency	20 KHz

Converter
Weight	0.75 lbs. (0.34Kg)
Dimensions	6″ L x 1.25″ Dia.(15cm x 3cm)
Materials	Aluminum Alloy

Standard 1/8” Probe
Weight	0.25 lbs. (0.11Kg)
Dimensions	5.4″ L x 0.5″ Dia.(13.8cm x 1.3cm)
Materials	Titanium Alloy

Environmental
Pollution Degree	2
Installation Category	II
Operating Limits Shipping/Storage	Temperature: 41 – 104ºF (5 – 40ºC) Relative Humidity 10 – 95% (Non Condensing)Altitude: 6,651 ft. (2000 m) Temperature: 35 -120 oF (2 – 49 oC) Relative Humidity 10 – 95% (Non Condensing)Ambient Pressure Extremes: 40,000 ft. (12,192 m)
Restriction of Hazardous Substances (ROHS)
Relative humidity	Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperatures up to 31ºC decreasinglinearly to 50% relative humidity to 40ºC
Other	For indoor use only

The AC Adapter supplied with the ultrasonic processor must be used. If the 230VAC plug is not configured to match the wall receptacle, a properly grounded universal AC socket adapter must be added.

Important: Universal adapters do not convert voltage or frequency. Manufacturer is not responsible for damage caused by the use of an improper power cord or adapter. Transformers are not recommended.

PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION

The ultrasonic electronic generator transforms DC line power to a 20 KHz signal that drives a piezoelectric converter/transducer. This electrical signal is converted by the transducer to a mechanical vibration due to the characteristics of the internal piezoelectric crystals.

The vibration is amplified and transmitted down the length of the probe where the tip longitudinally expands and contracts. The distance the tip travels is dependent on the amplitude/intensity setting selected by turning the output control knob. As you increase the amplitude setting the sonication intensity will increase within your sample.

In liquid, the rapid vibration of the tip causes cavitation, the formation and violent collapse of microscopic bubbles. The collapse of thousands of cavitation bubbles releases tremendous energy in the cavitation field. The erosion and shock effect of the collapse of the cavitation bubble is the primary mechanism of fluid processing.

The probe tip diameter dictates the amount of sample that can be effectively processed. Smaller tip diameters deliver high intensity sonication but the energy is focused within a small, concentrated area. Probes with larger tip diameters can process larger volumes, but offer lower intensity.

The choices of a power supply and horns/probes are matched to the volume, viscosity and other parameters of the particular application. Horns are available for both direct and indirect sonication. The frequently asked questions (FAQ) section has more information on this subject.

Please consult with a product specialist for assistance with selecting a probe for your application.

DESCRIPTIONS OF COMPONENTS / FUNCTIONS OF CONTROLS

Q55 FRONT PANEL

Q55 REAR PANEL

FUNCTIONS OF KEYS CONTROLS & CONNECTORS

FRONT PANEL
Power Switch	ON Position – energizes the power supply. OFF Position – de-energizes the power supply. Illuminates when the power supply is energized
Amplitude Control Knob	Controls the amplitude/intensity of vibrations at the probe tip
Continuous/Thumb Switch	Continuous Position – Probe tip is energized when the amplitude is set above the red area on the Amplitude Control Knob. Thumb switch Position – Probe tip is energized once the thumb switch or footswitch is depressed. The probe tip will stop when either switch is released.

REAR PANEL
Footswitch Jack/Connector	Connects to the footswitch cable.
Converter Cable Connector (Output)	Connects the power supply output to the converter.
DC Power (Input) Adapter Connector	Connects the power supply to the DC adapter.

CONVERTER CLAMPING

Improper clamping can damage the system and void the warranty. Using a sound enclosure (part #432A) or stand (part #460) will ensure a proper fit

Proper Clamping

Improper Clamping

PREPARATION FOR USE

INSPECTION

Prior to installing the Ultrasonic Processor, perform a visual inspection to detect any evidence of damage, which might have occurred during shipment. Before disposing of any packaging material, check it carefully for small items.

The Ultrasonic Processor was carefully packed and thoroughly inspected before leaving our factory. The carrier, upon acceptance of the shipment, assumed responsibility for its safe delivery. Claims for loss or damage sustained in transit must be submitted to the carrier.

If damage has occurred, contact your carrier within 48 hours of the delivery date. DO NOT OPERATE DAMAGED EQUIPMENT. Retain all packing materials for future shipment

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS

The Ultrasonic Processor requires 24 volts DC. A universal 98V~264V @ 47~63Hz AC, to DC switch-mode power supply capable of delivering 24 volts at 3.75 amperes is supplied with your system.

If it is necessary to convert the unit for different voltage operation, proceed as follows:

Ensure that the power cord is not connected to the electrical outlet.
Change the electrical power cord or add a properly grounded universal AC socket adapter as required.

WARNING
For your personal safety, do not, under any circumstances, defeat the grounding feature of the power cord by removing the grounding prong

INSTALLING THE ULTRASONIC PROCESSOR

The Ultrasonic Processor should be installed in an area that is free from excessive dust, dirt, explosive and corrosive fumes, and extremes of temperature and humidity. If processing flammable liquids, use an approved fume hood and do not place the power supply in the fume hood.

When positioning the unit, be sure to leave adequate space behind the unit so that all connections can be easily disconnected.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION

Do not operate continuously for more than 1 minute.
Do not operate the power supply unless it is connected to the converter.

Never allow liquid to spill into the converter.
Do not allow a probe to vibrate in air for more than 10 seconds.
Do not allow the vibrating probe to contact anything but the sample.

Never place a washer between the probe and the converter.
Never apply grease to the mating surfaces or threads of the converter or probe.
Should it become necessary to remove a probe, use the wrenches supplied. Never attempt to remove the probe by twisting the converter housing, as this may damage the electrical connections within the housing.

Note: The temperature of the converter front area (where the probe attaches) should never exceed 60 oC (140 o F). If this temperature is reached, shut the system off and allow to cool.

Do not allow the system to operate for more than 1 minute without a rest or pulse to prevent overheating.

SETUP

Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0.
Plug the electrical line cord into the electrical outlet.
If the optional foot switch is used, insert the plug into the jack located on the rear panel. Do not insert footswitch plug while the system is powered on.

Probes must be properly tightened. If the convertor and probe assembly is not already assembled; screw the probe onto the converter and using the wrenches provided tighten it securely. Check the tightness of an already assembled probe by using the wrench set. Please refer to images in the Maintenance section of this manual for tightening instructions. A loose probe may cause damage to the generator circuitry or parts of the converter and probe. Always use the wrenches supplied with the unit.
Small Sonicators such as the Q55 should be operated in on and off pulses to prevent the converter from overheating. Overheating the converter can cause permanent damage, may crack the probe tip and will void the warranty.
To prevent sample overheating, sonication can be manually pulsed on and off by using the converter thumb switch, foot switch or by manually turning the amplitude knob setting up/down as needed.
Important: Do not flip the main power switch on/off to pulse sonication.
Probe tips wear after normal use. Using a severely worn probe tip can damage internal generator components.

If using a laboratory stand, mount the converter/probe assembly using a clamp. Be sure to secure the clamp to the upper section of the convertor housing only (see page
Do not secure the clamp to any other portion of the convertor/probe assembly.
Connect the converter cable to the power supply.

OPERATION

Continuous mode:

Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0.

Set the converter and probe assembly in a stand or hold the convertor in your hand.
Turn the unit on.
Immerse the probe tip half way into the sample. If the probe is immersed to an insufficient depth, air will be injected into the sample, causing the sample to foam.
Also ensure that the probe tip is not touching the wall of the sample vessel as it may be damaged and it will not vibrate properly.

Turn the amplitude setting dial to the intensity that you wish to run the unit at.
Sonicate sample for the desired amount of time and then turn the amplitude setting dial back to 0.

Remote (Thumb switch or Footswitch) mode:

Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0.
Set the switch on the front panel to thumb switch.
If needed, connect the foot switch cable to the designated jack on the back of the power supply. Place the footswitch in a convenient location on the floor in front of the unit.

Hold the convertor in your hand or set the convertor and probe assembly in a stand.
Turn the unit on.
Turn the amplitude setting dial to the intensity that you wish to run the unit at.

Place the probe tip into the liquid sample being sonicated. Ensure that the probe tip is not touching the wall of the sample vessel and that it is properly submerged in the sample liquid to prevent aerosolization/foaming.
Depress the thumb switch or footswitch to start sonication of the sample.
Sonicate for the desired amount of time and then release the thumb switch or footswitch to stop sonication.

Note: sonication will generate heat and pulsed sonication is recommended to prevent overheating of both the sample and converter. Chilling the sample using an ice bath or other appropriate method is recommended.

Continuous sonication should be limited to 1 minute. Longer sonication time should be done in a pulse mode.

MAINTENANCE

It is recommended to periodically inspect the unit, both visually and physically, to ensure optimum and safe performance. This inspection should be scheduled as a routine maintenance procedure, done with the unit power OFF and with the unit unplugged from the AC power source.

Long exposure to acids or caustics results in corrosion of metal parts or components. Check the power supply, converter, and cables periodically for any signs of rust or discoloration. If discoloration is found, move the unit away from the source of the contaminant.

Examine the condition of the high voltage cable that attaches the converter to the generator. Inspect the wire insulation for damage, such as wear, burning from hot plate contact or breakage from extended use or rough handling. In general use, the cable assembly should not be used to carry the converter or pull it toward the user. Make certain the cable always has slack and is never tensioned. If necessary, move the generator or converter assembly closer to one another to accomplish this.

WARNING: Do not use a cable with broken end connections, exposed wires or frayed insulation. High voltage is present in the cable and will pose a shock hazard. Do not touch the converter assembly until the power switch is off and the unit is unplugged.

PROBE MAINTENANCE

Ultrasonic processors create high intensity vibration which puts stress on the converter and horn assembly. The sides and end of the probe must never be allowed to come in contact with anything but the solution. When using a probe, the stress resulting at the point of contact with the vessel could cause the small probe tip to fracture.

Proper care of the probe is essential for dependable operation. The intense cavitation will, after usage for period of time, cause the tip to erode, and the power output to decrease. The smoother and shinier the tip, the more power will be transmitted into the sample. The vibrations may also cause the probe tip to loosen over time or the threaded connection to accumulate debris. Note: A loose probe will usually generate a loud piercing or squealing sound.

For that reason, it is recommended that a preventative maintenance schedule be adopted to examine the unit at regular intervals. The schedule should depend on frequency of use. Weekly maintenance schedules are recommended for units used frequently or monthly for those used infrequently. The tip must be examined for excessive wear and to ensure that the threaded connection is clean and attached properly to the convertor. Use a cotton swab and alcohol (i.e. ethanol, isopropyl, etc.) to clean the threaded mating surfaces. When excessive wear (corrosion/pitting of the probe tip) is detected the probe should be replaced with a new one

WARNING: Probes must be properly tightened with the appropriate Wrench Set.

ATTACHING & DETACHING PROBES

Disconnect probe from convertor. Use the wrench set provided with the system.
Clean threaded stud. Use alcohol and a cotton swab to remove any debris on the threading of the connecting stud. Allow the alcohol to dry completely.
Clean threading in converter. Use alcohol and a cotton swab to remove any debris on the threading. Do not allow liquid to drip into converter. Allow the alcohol to dry completely.

Re-attach probe to converter. Screw the probe back onto the converter and tighten with the wrench set provided.

SYSTEM CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

The power supply and converter may be cleaned using an acid-free cleaning solution (i.e. glass cleaner).

Probes should be cleaned using isopropyl alcohol. Probes are made from titanium and can be autoclaved (the converter is an electrical part and cannot be sterilized in this manner). Before each procedure place the probe tip in water or alcohol and turn the power on for a few seconds to remove residue. The tip also can be sterilized using alcohol with the power on.

TROUBLESHOOTING
The most probable causes for malfunction are listed below and should be investigated

TROUBLESHOOTING

The most probable causes for malfunction are listed below and should be investigated

A connector or cable is damaged.
The probe is not tightened properly with the wrenches provided.
The converter and/or probe has been dropped.

A probe being operated is damaged or worn past its useful life.

If the problem persists after inspecting all of these, please contact Customer Service for additional assistance or to replace a worn probe or damaged part.

RETURN OF EQUIPMENT

It is suggested that an Ultrasonic Processor in need of repair be sent back to the factory.

In order to receive prompt service; always contact your Customer Service Representative before returning any instrument. Include date of purchase, model number and serial number.

Please obtain a Return Authorization Number prior to returning the instrument.

Care should be exercised to provide adequate packing to insure against possible damage in shipment. The Ultrasonic Processor should be sent to the “Service Department” with all transportation charges prepaid and return of shipment indicated.

Important
The user must certify that the ultrasonic processor and/or the accessories returned for repair are free of any biohazardous or radioactive material and are safe for handling. Please complete the “Safety Certification” form on the next page and send it in with your equipment.

Do not return any equipment unless such a certification can be made.

SAFETY CERTFICATION FORM

Please check only one item below:

The equipment was never used or exposed to any radiological, biological or chemical agents and is safe to handle, use or dispose of.
The equipment was used but not in conjunction with or exposed to any radiological, geological or chemical agents and is safe to handle, use, or dispose of.
The equipment was used in conjunction with or exposed to radiological, biological, or chemical agents and has been decontaminated, rendering it safer for handling, use, or disposal.

Authorization

By accepting authorization to return the equipment listed above, the undersigned assumes all responsibility and liability for radiological, biological and chemical decontamination. Delivery of the equipment can be refused if necessary documentation is not provided or where it is determined that the equipment has not been properly decontaminated. If it is determined that the equipment was not properly decontaminated, the Authorized Repair Facility reserves theright to bill the customer for any and all costs associated with the decontamination and/or appropriate disposal of the equipment. In the event the equipment has been exposed to radiological contamination, the signature of the Radioactive Safety Officer is required.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Probe size vs. Sample volume
Selecting the proper size probe is a critical factor when sonicating a sample. The sample volume to be processed must correlate with the tip diameter. Each probe has a recommended sample volume range. This range may overlap with other probes. For example, the 1/8” probe is recommended for approximately 0.5-15ml. Depending on the application and type of sample, you may be able to process a volume outside of our recommended range.

Small volumes require a small tip diameter. Small probes (¼” or less) are recommended for processing samples inside small, thin vessels such as microcentrifuge tubes. These small probe sizes are high intensity and made for short processing times. Using a small probe tip for long time periods will generate a considerable amount of heat. Pulse mode should be used to reduce heat buildup.

While there is no absolute sample volume range for any probe/horn, below is a general guideline to follow. Using a sample volume outside each tip diameter’s range is normally not recommended.

Tip Diameter		Processing Volume Range
1/16″	(2mm)	0.2ml – 5ml
1/8″	(3mm)	0.5ml – 15ml
1/4″	(6mm)	10ml – 50ml

Vessel shape and size
A narrow vessel is preferable to a wide vessel. The ultrasonic energy is generated from the tip and is directed downward. As a sample is processed the liquid is pushed down and away in all directions. If the vessel is too wide, it will not mix effectively and some sample will remain untreated at the periphery. The probe should never touch the sides or bottom of the vessel.

How to prevent foaming (small sample issue)
Foaming is a problem that often occurs with samples volumes below 1ml. The cause of foaming is generally 3 issues: amplitude is too high for a small volume, tip is too large for the volume, or the tip is not inserted to a proper depth.

Tip depth
The depth of the probe within the liquid is an important issue. If the probe is too close to the surface of the liquid, it can create foam. If the probe is too deep, it may sonicate against the bottom of the vessel and not effectively processing the sample. The sample must flow freely below the tip in order to be mixed effectively. Without effective mixing you cannot ensure the entire sample volume will pass below the tip and become processed.

The probe should be submerged approximately halfway into the liquid but there are exceptions. Before processing actual samples, it is recommended to test the probe in a vessel filled with water to observe the ultrasonic energy and the flow pattern of the liquid. During this test you can adjust the probe’s depth until you see adequate mixing and movement of the water

Power vs. intensity
Power is the measure of the electrical energy that is being delivered to the converter. At the convertor, the electrical energy is transformed into mechanical energy. It does this by exciting the piezoelectric crystals causing them to move in the longitudinal direction within the convertor. This change from electrical into mechanical energy causes a motion that travels through the horn/probe causing the tip to move up and down.

The distance of one movement up and down is called its amplitude. The amplitude is adjustable. Each probe has a maximum amplitude value. For example, with a 1/8” diameter probe at setting 100%, the probe will achieve an amplitude of approximately 180μm. At setting 50% the amplitude is approximately 90μm. Note: this value is approximate and not perfectly linear. We measure the amplitude of each probe at 100% and these values are published in the brochure.

Amplitude and intensity have a direct relationship. If you operate at a low amplitude setting, you will deliver low intensity sonication. If you operate at a high amplitude setting, you will have high intensity sonication. In order to be able to reproduce results, the amplitude setting, temperature, viscosity and volume of the sample are all parameters that need to remain consistent. The amplitude, not the power, is most critical when trying to reproduce sonication results.

Power has a variable relationship with amplitude/intensity. For example, sonicating water requires less wattage when compared to a viscous sample (such as oil). While sonicating both samples at the same amplitude setting the power/wattage will differ because the viscous sample will require more watts in order to drive the horn. The viscous sample puts a heavier load on the probe so they system must work harder to vibrate up and down at the same amplitude setting. The oil may draw double the watts when operated at the same amplitude as the water sample.

Viscosity Limitations
Viscous solutions and highly concentrated liquids can be difficult to sonicate. If the liquid is so thick that it cannot be easily poured out of a vessel it is likely too viscous to be sonicated.

Keeping Samples Cool
Ultrasonic processing causes the liquid temperature to elevate especially with small volumes. Pulsed sonication is always recommended. The addition of an ice bath, Coolrack or recirculating chiller to cool the sample vessel is strongly suggested.

See website for more details and additional information: www.sonicator.com

WARRANTY

Your Ultrasonic Processor is warrantied and backed by the manufacturer for a period of two years from the date of shipment against defects in material and workmanship under normal use as described in this instruction manual. During the warranty period, the manufacturer will, at its option, as the exclusive remedy, either repair or replace without charge for material and labor, the part(s) which prove to be defective, provided the unit is returned to us properly packed with all transportation charges prepaid.

Ultrasonic probes are guaranteed against defects for a period of one year from date of shipment. A defective probe will be replaced once without charge, if failure occurs within the warranty period. Wear resulting from cavitation erosion is a normal consequence of ultrasonic processing and is not covered by this warranty.

The manufacturer neither assumes nor authorizes any person to assume for it any other obligations or liability in connection with the sale of its products. The manufacturer hereby disclaims any warranty of either merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. No person or company is authorized to change, modify, or amend the terms of this warranty in any manner or fashion whatsoever. Under no circumstances shall the manufacturer be liable to the purchaser or any other person for any incidental or consequential damages or loss of goodwill, production, or profit resulting from any malfunction or failure of this product.

This warranty does not apply to equipment that has been subject to unauthorized repair, misuse, abuse, negligence, or accident. Equipment which shows evidence of having been used in violation of operating instructions, or which has had the serial number altered or removed, will be ineligible for service under this warranty.

All probes are manufactured to exacting specifications and are tuned to vibrate at a specific frequency. Using an out-of-tune probe will cause damage to the equipment and may result in warranty nullification. The manufacturer assumes no responsibility for probes fabricated by another party or for consequential damages resulting from their usage.

The aforementioned provisions do not extend the original warranty period of any product that has either been repaired or replaced by the manufacturer.

Documents / Resources

Qsonica Q55 Sonicator Ultrasonic Processor [pdf] Instruction Manual
Q55 Sonicator Ultrasonic Processor, Q55, Sonicator Ultrasonic Processor, Ultrasonic Processor, Processor

References

Sonicator Ultrasonic Homogenizers & Emulsifiers | Qsonica

User Manual