# Ultrasonification (DD-386)

> Ultrasonic cleaners send high-frequency sound through water or a cleaning solution, creating microscopic bubbles that form and collapse, a process called cavitation. The collapses produce tiny jets and shock waves that loosen dirt and oils from rings and settings. Some gems, such as emeralds, opals and pearls, can be damaged and should not be cleaned this way. The footage shows jewelry in an ultrasonic tank.

- Department: Science (also Tech)
- First published: 2024-11-22
- Last updated: 2024-11-22
- Permalink: https://detailenjoyer.com/case/ultrasonification/
- Author: Marcus Easterling (DetailEnjoyer), The Detail Department

## Quick facts

- **DD-386-F01**: High-frequency sound. _(Write-up · Exhibit A (Sound))_
- **DD-386-F02**: Bubbles collapse. _(Write-up · Exhibit B (Cavitation))_

## Write-up

Ultrasonic cleaners scrub jewelry with collapsing bubbles. The bubbles reach crevices brushes can't.

1. **Sound**: High-frequency sound.
2. **Cavitation**: Bubbles collapse.
3. **Effect**: Loosens dirt.
4. **Crevices**: Reaches small gaps.
5. **Caution**: Some gems can be damaged.

## Related case files

- [Pump Cavitation (DD-413)](https://detailenjoyer.com/case/pump-cavitation/): I linked more cavitation

## Reel vs. record

- **Note**: The Reel calls the method gentle and suitable for gemstones; some stones, such as emeralds, opals and pearls, can be damaged by it.

## Video: Ultrasonification: Ultrasonic Cleaners Scrub Jewelry With Collapsing Bubbles

- Duration: 33.7 s · Published: 2024-11-22
- File: https://detailenjoyer.com/assets/videos/DCs1K_ZtDni.mp4

### Transcript

Did you know, cleaning jewelry with ultrasonification involves using ultrasonic waves to remove dirt, grime, and oils from intricate or hard-to-reach places. The process is carried out in an ultrasonic cleaner, which contains a tank filled with water or cleaning solution. High-frequency sound waves are emitted into the liquid, creating microscopic bubbles through a process called cavitation. These bubbles collapse rapidly, generating tiny shock waves that gently dislodge contaminants from the jewelry's surface and crevices. This method is highly effective for cleaning delicate pieces like rings, necklaces, and bracelets, made from metals and gemstones, as it reaches areas that are difficult to clean manually. NOW YOU KNOW!

## Questions & answers

**Q: What forms the bubbles?**  
A: Sound. _(Source: Write-up · Exhibit A (Sound) · Wikipedia: Ultrasonic cleaning)_

**Q: What is bubble collapse called?**  
A: Implosion. _(Source: Write-up · Exhibit B (Cavitation) · Wikipedia: Cavitation)_

**Q: What is removed?**  
A: Contaminants. _(Source: Write-up · Exhibit C (Effect) · Wikipedia: Ultrasonic cleaning)_

**Q: Which gem can be harmed?**  
A: Fragile. _(Source: Write-up · Exhibit D (Crevices) · Wikipedia: Ultrasonic cleaning)_

**Q: Where does it reach?**  
A: Small gaps. _(Source: Write-up · Exhibit E (Caution) · Wikipedia: Ultrasonic cleaning)_

## Sources

- [Wikipedia: Ultrasonic cleaning](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultrasonic_cleaning)
- [Wikipedia: Cavitation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cavitation)

## Cite this case file

Easterling, Marcus. "Ultrasonification." The Detail Department (DetailEnjoyer), case file DD-386, last updated Nov 22, 2024. https://detailenjoyer.com/case/ultrasonification/