Ultrasonic Gun Cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning devices are designed to clean by blasting items with sound waves, creating vibrations so strong that dirt and debris cannot hold together and therefore disintegrates; or through "cavitation," a process in which vibrations in water are strong enough to form bubbles which then burst. Cavitation is the method typically used in ultrasonic gun cleaning; it is 30 to 40 percent more effective than conventional cleaning solutions.
How Ultrasonic Gun Cleaning Works
The ultrasonic gun cleansing process can be completed in 10 minutes or less, excluding time spent to disassemble and reassemble the weapon. A commercial ultrasonic cleaning unit is necessary to use the method. After the weapon is field stripped (taken apart for cleaning) and all debris and grease is removed, it is then placed into a stainless steel basket and lowered into an ultrasonic cleaning solution within in the unit's heated tank.
The unit produces high-frequency sound waves, which in turn produces high and low pressure. The alternating pressure creates great quantities of tiny bubbles which burst on the gun's surface; the end result of the breaking bubbles is a microscopic and extremely effective cleansing action. After removing the firearm from the cleaning solution, it is rinsed, dried with compressed air, and then taken within the unit into a separate basket, where lubricants are applied using the same ultrasonic application process used to clean the gun. After the weapon is removed from the tank, any excess oil is removed and the gun is dried again, and is now ready to be reassembled and used or stored.
What You'll Need
Alkaline-based ultrasonic gun cleaning solutions are available in many commercial markets, but they won't do the job alone. The cleaning unit heats the solution to nearly 500 degrees Fahrenheit and causes the bubbles to form.
Ultrasonic cleaning units vary in price, but may cost anywhere from less than $100 to more than $1,000, depending upon capacity, efficiency, quality and brand. Many models are available for comparison shopping online; some gun retailers offer units for sale. Jewelers and other merchants use ultrasonic units for cleaning, as well, though using a unit designed for application of specific gun oils is recommended.
Considerations
After the initial purchase of the unit and cleanser, the use of ultrasonic cleanser is very efficient; though one gallon can cost more than $70 (though many are available for less), one gallon is typically capable of cleansing more than 500 individual firearms, and often proves far more time-efficient than hand-cleaning. Ultrasonic cleaning solutions are typically water-based; a number of manufacturers offer non-toxic, green-friendly cleansers.
When cleaning, keep in mind that any wood grips, electronic sights or scopes should not be immersed in the cleaning solution. Remove these when field stripping the weapon and place them aside. Ultrasonic solutions are safe for blued and stainless steel gun surfaces, as well as polymer frames, synthetic grips and night sights.
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