Washing of springs

However, the challenge of keeping springs impeccably clean is nothing new – dirt, deposits or oil residues from production can seriously affect their durability and functionality.

Traditional cleaning methods often prove insufficient, especially when it is necessary to eliminate contamination from hard-to-reach places. This is where CASTOR comes to the rescue with its ultrasonic washing technology, which can be supported by rinsing and drying processes.

Ultrasonic washing technology as a remedy for persistent contamination

ULT-CAST ultrasonic washers use a process in which high-frequency sound waves generate thousands of microscopic bubbles, which explode upon contact with the surface of the springs, effectively tearing the contamination off.

Thanks to this technology, the cleaning process becomes not only more effective, but also exceptionally gentle, which is crucial when washing components with complex shapes, such as springs poured loosely into the technological basket.

Ultrasound provides access to all nooks and crannies, which allows for the precise removal of deposits and grease that could affect the properties of the springs or shorten their service life.

Fully automatic process – from washing to drying

Modern ultrasonic washers from CASTOR Unia Gospodarcza Sp. z o.o. offer the full automation of the process, which minimizes human interference and thus reduces the risk of errors. The process begins with placing the springs in a special technological basket prepared by the operator. Then the manipulator takes over the basket and moves it successively through the individual tubs, ensuring full immersion in the appropriate baths, which is crucial for achieving perfect cleanliness.

1.  Ultrasonic washing
   The first tank is used for ultrasonic washing, in which sound waves with a frequency usually from 25 kHz to 100 kHz (and in the most demanding applications even up to 1 MHz) generate the aforementioned microbubbles.

   The time and intensity of this stage can be adjusted based on the type and degree of contamination of the springs, allowing for process optimization. Thanks to this, there is no risk of damaging the components, and cleaning is effective even in the case of complex shapes.

2. Rinsing in demineralized water
   After the washing process is completed, the basket is automatically transferred into the rinsing tub, where the springs are thoroughly rinsed in demineralized water. The process is supported by aeration of the bath, by so-called bubbling or by forced subsurface spraying.

   This stage is crucial, as it removes all residues of the cleaning agents and residues from the surface of the springs, leaving them completely clean and free from potential contamination. Demineralized water does not leave streaks or residues, which is important, especially when components require the highest precision and quality of finish.

3. Maintenance
   Depending on the material from which the springs are made, it may turn out that an additional stage of anti-corrosion protection is required. For this purpose, Castor has a wide range of mediums containing corrosion inhibitors, which can protect the material for the next few hours or even months if there is a need to store the washed products for a longer time.
   
   
4. Hot air drying 
   The last stage is hot air drying. After rinsing, the springs are moved to a special drying chamber, where hot air quickly and thoroughly removes all traces of moisture. Hot air drying not only prevents corrosion, but also shortens the waiting time for the finished component, which is of great importance in a production environment. Thanks to full automation, the entire process runs smoothly, ensuring high repeatability and reliability.

Benefits of Automation and Ultrasound in Spring Cleaning

Automatic ultrasonic cleaning in multi-bath systems brings a number of benefits, from significantly reducing cleaning time to eliminating human errors and optimizing water and chemical consumption. In addition, ultrasonic cleaning is extremely economical and ecological, as it requires minimal amounts of cleaning agents. This process not only increases the quality of components, but also allows for significant savings, making it an ideal solution for companies that focus on high quality and production efficiency.

Summary

CASTOR Unia Gospodarcza Sp. z o.o. knows from experience that washing springs is a challenge for many industries, especially in the context of cleanliness required by modern standards. Thanks to ultrasonic washing technology and process automation, it is possible to effectively, quickly and precisely clean springs even a few millimeters in size.

Rinsing in demineralized water and drying with hot air additionally improve the quality of the final product, minimizing the risk of residues and corrosion, so the customers can enjoy the effect they deserve.