Omni Q55 Ultrasonic User manual

Q55 Ultrasonic
Homogenizer
User Manual

1. WARRANTY
Your Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizers warrantied and backed by the manufacturer for a
period of two years from the date of shipment against defects in material and workman-
ship under normal use as described in this instruction manual. During the warranty peri-
od, 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 with-
in 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 oth-
er obligations or liability in connection with the sale of its products. The manufacturer
hereby disclaims any warranty of either merchantability or tness for a particular pur-
pose. 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 conse-
quential damages or loss of goodwill, production, or prot resulting from any malfunc-
tion or failure of this product.
This warranty does not apply to equipment that has been subject to unauthorized re-
pair, misuse, abuse, negligence, or accident. Equipment which shows evidence of hav-
ing 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 specications and are tuned to vibrate at a
specic frequency. Using an out-of-tune probe will cause damage to the equipment
and may result in warranty nullication. 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 prod-
uct that has either been repaired or replaced by the manufacturer

2. WARNINGS
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 fre-
quency cable. There are no user-serviceable 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 out-
let for proper grounding prior to plugging in unit.
• Install the Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizer in an area free from excessive dust, dirt,
explosive or corrosive fumes and protected from extremes in temperature and hu-
midity. Do not place the Generator within a Fume Hood.
• Hearing protection is highly recommended. It is recommended that a sound abat-
ing enclosure or ear protection be used when operating the Q55 Ultrasonic Ho-
mogenizer
• 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 o 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.

3. SPECIFICATIONS
Power Supply
Input Voltage 24 VDC
Rated Power 55 Watts
Weight 3 lbs. (1.36 kg)
Dimensions W: 8”(20.0 cm), D: 7.5”(19.0 cm), H: 5.75”(14.6 cm)
Output Voltage 250 VRMS
Output Frequency 20 KHz
AC Adapter
Input Voltage 90 to 264 VAC @ 50/60 Hz 1.5A
Output Voltage 24V DC, 3.75A
Rated Power 90 Watts
Converter
Weight 0.75 lbs. (0.34 kg)
Dimensions L: 6” (15.0 cm) x W: 1.25” (3.0 cm)
Materials Aluminum Alloy

The AC adapter Supplied with the Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizer must be used.
If the 230V plug is not congured 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. Trans-
formers are not recommended.
Environmental
Pollution Degree 2
Installation Category II
Operating Limits
Shipping/Storage
Temperature: 41 - 104 ºF (5 - 40 ºC)
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 31
ºC decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity to 40 ºC
Other For indoor use only

4. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION
The Q55 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 piezo-
electric crystals.
The vibration is amplied 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 col-
lapse of microscopic bubbles. The collapse of thousands of cavitation bubbles releases
tremendous energy in the cavitation eld. The erosion and shock eect of the collapse
of the cavitation bubble is the primary mechanism of uid processing.
The probe tip diameter dictates the amount of sample that can be eectively 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 oer lower intensity.
The choices of a power supply and horns/probes are matched to the volume, viscosity,
and other parameters of the application. Horns are available for both direct and indirect
sonication. See section 10 for more information on this subject.

5. DESCRIPTIONS OF COMPONENTS /
FUNCTIONS OF CONTROLS
5.1. Q55 FRONT PANEL
5.2. Q55 REAR PANEL
Power Supply
Convertor Cable Convertor
Probe
Lab Stand with Clamp
Convertor Cable Connector Footswitch Jack DC Power Input

5.3. 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.
FRONT 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.

5.4. CONVERTER CLAMPING
Improper clamping can damage the system and void the warranty. Using a sound en-
closure (part #060-12) or stand (part #060-10) will ensure a proper t.
Proper Clamping Improper Clamping

6. PREPARATION FOR USE
INSPECTION
Prior to installing the Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizer, perform a visual inspection to de-
tect any evidence of damage, which might have occurred during shipment. Before dis-
posing of any packaging material, check it carefully for small items.
The Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizer was carefully packed and thoroughly inspected be-
fore leaving our factory. The carrier, upon acceptance of the shipment, assumed respon-
sibility for its safe delivery. Claims for loss or damage sustained in transit must be sub-
mitted 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 Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizer requires 24 volts DC. A universal 98-264 V @ 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 dierent voltage operation, proceed as follows:
1. Ensure that the power cord is not connected to the electrical outlet.
2. Change the electrical power cord or add a properly grounded universal AC socket
adapter as required.
INSTALLING THE Q55 ULTRASONIC HOMOGENIZER
The Q55 Ultrasonic Homogenizer should be installed in an area that is free from exces-
sive dust, dirt, explosive and corrosive fumes, and extremes of temperature and humid-
ity. If processing ammable 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.
WARNING
For your personal safety, do not, under any circumstances, defeat the
grounding feature of the power cord by removing the grounding prong.

7. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
7.1. 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 dam-
age the electrical connections within the housing.
Note: The temperature of the converter front area (where the probe attaches) should never
exceed 60 º C (140 ºF). If this temperature is reached, shut the system o and allow to cool.
Do not allow the system to operate for more than 1 minute without a rest or pulse to prevent
overheating.
7.2. SETUP
1. Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0.
2. Plug the electrical line cord into the electrical outlet.
3. 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.
4. 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 gen-
erator circuitry or parts of the converter and probe. Always use the wrenches sup-
plied with the unit.
5. Small Sonicators such as the Q55 should be operated in on and o pulses to pre-
vent the converter from overheating. Overheating the converter can cause perma-
nent damage, may crack the probe tip and will void the warranty.
6. To prevent sample overheating, sonication can be manually pulsed on and o by
using the converter thumb switch, foot switch or by manually turning the ampli-
tude knob setting up/down as needed.
Important: Do not ip the main power switch on/o to pulse sonication.
7. Probe tips wear after normal use. Using a severely worn probe tip can damage
internal generator components.

8. 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 10). Do not secure the clamp to any other portion of the convertor/probe
assembly.
9. Connect the converter cable to the power supply.
7.3. OPERATION
Continuous mode:
1. Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0.
2. Set the converter and probe assembly in a stand or hold the convertor in your hand.
3. Turn the unit on.
4. Immerse the probe tip half way into the sample. If the probe is immersed to an
insucient 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.
5. Turn the amplitude setting dial to the intensity that you wish to run the unit at.
6. Sonicate sample for the desired amount of time and then turn the amplitude set-
ting dial back to 0.
Remote (Thumb switch or Footswitch) mode:
1. Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0.
2. Set the switch on the front panel to thumb switch.
3. 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 oor in front
of the unit.
4. Hold the convertor in your hand or set the convertor and probe assembly in a stand.
5. Turn the unit on.
6. Turn the amplitude setting dial to the intensity that you wish to run the unit at.
7. 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.
8. Depress the thumb switch or footswitch to start sonication of the sample.
9. 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 pre-
vent 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.

8. MAINTENANCE
It is recommended to periodically inspect the unit, both visually and physically, to en-
sure 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 dis-
coloration. If discoloration is found, move the unit away from the source of the con-
taminant.
Examine the condition of the high voltage cable that attaches the converter to the gen-
erator. 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 cer-
tain 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 o and the unit is unplugged.
8.1. PROBE MAINTENANCE
Ultrasonic homogenizers create high intensity vibration which puts stress on the con-
verter 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 result-
ing 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 de-
crease. 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 fre-
quently or monthly for those used infrequently. The tip must be examined for exces-
sive 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.

8.2. ATTACHING & DETACHING PROBES
1. Disconnect probe from convertor. Use the wrench set provided with the system.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Re-attach probe to converter. Screw the probe back onto the converter and tighten
with the wrench set provided.

8.3. 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 alco-
hol with the power on.
9. 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.

10. 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 recom-
mended sample volume range. This range may overlap with other probes.
For example the 1/8” probe is recommended for approximately 500 µL to 15 mL.
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. Processing volumes are application specic.
Tip Diameter Processing Volume Range
5/64” (1.6 mm) 200 L to 5 mL
1/8” (3.2 mm) 500 L to 15 mL
1/4” (6.4 mm) 10 mL to 50 mL
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 eectively 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 eectively processing the sample. The sample
must ow freely below the tip in order to be mixed eectively. Without eective
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 lled with water to observe the ultrasonic energy and the ow 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. It is measured in watts and displayed on the sonicators screen. At the
converter, 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
180m. At setting 50% the amplitude is approximately 90m. Note: this 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 set-
ting, 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 dier
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.
Small uctuation in the wattage during sonication is normal. Major swings in wattage
(+/- 20 watts) may indicate a problem with the sample, setup or the sonicator itself.
Viscosity Limitations
Viscous solutions and highly concentrated liquids can be dicult 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 vol-
umes. Pulsed sonication is always recommended. The addition of an ice bath or recircu-
lating chiller to cool the sample vessel is strongly suggested.

935 Cobb Place Blvd.
Kennesaw, GA 30144
800.776.4431 • 770.421.0058
www.omni-inc.com
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