Qsonica Sonicator Q700 User manual

Rev. 6-12
1
Sonicator
ULTRASONIC PROCESSOR
Part No. Q700
OPERATION MANUAL
53 Church Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470 U.S.A
Phone: 203.426.0101 ·1.877.338.9636
Fax: 203.426.7026
Web: www.sonicator.com · E-mail: info@sonicator.com

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Table of Contents
Section Page No.
1. Warranty 4
2. Warnings 5
3. Specifications 6-7
4. Principles of Operation 8-9
5. Description of Components / Functions of Controls 10-12
6. Preparation for Use 13
7. Operating Instructions (Getting Started) 14-23
8. Maintenance 24-26
9. Troubleshooting 27
10. Service / Return of Equipment 28
11. Service Safety Certification form 29

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1. Warranty
Your Ultrasonic Processor is warranted 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 its
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.

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2. Warnings
Please read the manual in its entirety. Necessary instruction and guidance are provided to help
ensure the successful operation of this device.
Your new Ultrasonic Liquid Processor has been designed, built and tested to assure maximum
operator safety. However, no design can completely protect against improper use that may lead to
bodily injury and/or property damage. For total safety and equipment protection, read the
instruction manual carefully before attempting to operate this equipment. Observe the following
WARNINGS:
High voltage is present in the generator (power supply), converter and high frequency 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 outlet for proper grounding
before plugging in unit.
Install the ultrasonic processor 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 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).
If needed air cool the convertor with dry compressed air.
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 glass or plastic container with an activated probe. It could crack
or shatter the glass or melt the plastic.
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 AC mains power while running a horn. Stop sonication via touch screen prior to stopping
power.

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Symbols
Caution, Risk of electric shock, Hazardous voltage
Caution, Risk of danger. Refer to User Manual.

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3. Specifications
Generator
Input Voltage
100 VAC –120 VAC @ 50/60 Hz
220 VAC –240 VAC @ 50/60
Hz
Rated Current
12 Amps max.
6 Amps max.
Fuse Rating
15 Amps*
8 Amps*
Weight
16 lbs. (7.3 Kg)
Dimensions
8"W x 15.25"Lx 8.5"H
203 mm x 387 mm x 216 mm
Output Voltage
1000 V rms (max.)
Output Frequency
20 KHz
Converter
Weight
2 lbs. (900 g)
Dimensions
7.25" L x 2.5" Dia.
(183 mm x 63.5 mm)
Materials
Aluminum Alloy
Standard ½ ” Horn
Weight
0.75 lbs. (340 g)
Dimensions
5.375" L x .5" Dia.
(136 mm x 13 mm)
Materials
Titanium Alloy

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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 - 49oC)
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 decreasing
linearly to 50% relative humidity to 40ºC
Other
For indoor use only
* Only use IEC approved Fast acting fuses, Cooper Bussman series S500.
The Power Cord supplied with the ultrasonic processor must be used. If the 220V 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. The manufacturer is not
responsible for damage caused by the use of an improper power cord or adapter. Transformers are
not recommended.
WEEE Statement
This product contains electrical or electronic materials. The presence of these
materials may, if not disposed of properly, have potential adverse effects on the
environment and human health. Presence of this label on the product means it should
not be disposed of as unsorted waste and must be collected separately. As a
consumer, you are responsible for ensuring that this product is disposed of properly.
To find out how to properly dispose of this product contact Customer Service.

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4. Principles of Operation
The ultrasonic electronic generator transforms AC 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 horn/probe where the tip
longitudinally expands and contracts. The distance the tip travels is dependent on the amplitude
selected by the user through the touch screen pad. 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 (Microtip probes) deliver high intensity sonication but the energy is focused within a
small, concentrated area. Larger tip diameters can process larger volumes, but offer lower intensity.
The choices of a generator 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 Accessories section has more information on this subject.
Please consult with a product specialist for assistance with selecting a probe for your application.
Relationship of Amplitude and Wattage
Sonication power is measured in watts. Amplitude is a measurement of the excursion of the tip of
the probe (probe is also known as a horn).
Some ultrasonic processors have a wattage display. During operation, the wattage displayed is the
energy required to drive the radiating face of a probe, at that specific amplitude setting against a
specific load, at that particular moment. For example, the unit experiences a higher load when
processing viscous samples then when compared to aqueous samples.
The speed /cruise control on an automobile, can, to a certain extent, be compared to an Ultrasonic
Processor. The speed/cruise control is designed to ensure that the vehicle maintains a constant rate
of travel. As the terrain elevations change, so do the power requirements. The cruise control
senses these requirements, and automatically adjusts the amount of power delivered by the engine
in order to compensate for these ever changing conditions. The greater the terrain rate of incline
and greater the resistance to the movement of the vehicle, the greater the amount of power that
will be delivered by the engine to overcome that resistance and maintain a constant speed.
The ultrasonic processor was designed to deliver constant amplitude, to your liquid sample,
regardless of these changes in load (much like the vehicle’s cruise control described above). As a
liquid is processed, the load on the probe will vary due to changes in the liquid sample (i.e.
viscosity, concentration, temperature, etc.). As the resistance to the movement of the probe
increases (increased load on the probe), additional power will be delivered by the power supply to
ensure that the excursion at the probe tip remains constant. The displayed wattage readings will
vary as the load changes, however the amplitude will remain the same.
The resistance to the movement of the probe determines how much power will be delivered to

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maintain amplitude. For example, a ½ ” probe at 100% amplitude will require approximately 5 watts
to operate in air. The amplitude of this probe is approximately 120um. Insert the probe in water
and the wattage reading will increase to approximately 90 watts. The wattage required to operate
the probe will increase as the load increases but the amplitude remains the same.
The AMPLITUDE control allows the ultrasonic vibrations at the probe tip to be set to any desired
level. Although the degree of cavitation/ultrasonic energy required to process the sample can
readily be determined by visual observation, the amount of power required cannot be predetermined.
A sensing network continuously monitors the output requirements, and automatically adjusts the
power to maintain the amplitude at the preselected level. The greater the resistance to the
movement of the probe due to higher viscosity, deeper immersion of the probe into the sample,
larger probe diameter or higher pressure, the greater the amount of power that will be delivered to
the probe. Setting the AMPLITUDE control to its maximum will not cause the maximum power
rating of the unit to be delivered to the sample. The maximum power (700 watts) that the
Ultrasonic Processor is capable of delivering will only be delivered when the resistance to the
movement of the probe is high enough to draw maximum wattage.
It is the intensity of cavitation that measures the effectiveness of the sonication, not the total
power applied to the system. Intensity is directly related to the amplitude of the radiating face of
the tip or horn. It is amplitude that must be provided, maintained, and monitored. The unit provides
controlled amplitude under varying load conditions in order to give reproducible results.

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5. Description of Components / Functions of Controls
The Model # Q700 includes a standard 1/2” diameter probe (#4220).
5a. Q700 Front Panel
5b. Q700 Rear Panel
½” Horn with
replaceable tip
Converter
Cable
Generator
Converter
Power Cord
Connector
Converter
Cable
Connector
On/Off
Switch
Temperature Probe
Connector
Footswitch
Jack
Cooling Fan
Fuses

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FUNCTIONS OF KEYS, CONTROLS, INDICATORS, AND CONNECTORS
FRONT PANEL
Touch screen display
Displays prompts and control parameters including:
• Amplitude selected
• Out put pow er delivered t o the probe in w atts
• Select ed duration of processing
• Actual processing time
• Elapsed time
• Set and read temperature
• Pulse on/off duration
• Accumulated amount of energy in Joules delivered to the probe
0 –9 key
Input digits for programming screens
EXIT
key
Moves to previous screen
ENT
key
Completes parameter entry on programming screens
CLR
key
Deletes selected parameter entry
RUN
key
To proceed to program run screen
SAVE
key
Stores a program to the selected memory number. Up to 10
programs (0-9) can be stored.
START/STOP
key
Starts or stops the ultrasonics.
PAUSE
key
Suspends operation, without clearing program/run totals. Press
pause again to resume program/run and continue accumulating
run data.
▲▼
key
Used to set the amplitude of vibration at the probe tip. Also used
to increase or decrease the amplitude in small increments while
the unit is runnng.
For explanations of each screen and button on the ultrasonic processor and complete
programming instructions please see Section 7 of this manual.

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REAR PANEL
On / Off Switch
Turns the power supply on and off.
Footswitch Connector
Connects to the footswitch cable.
Temperature Probe
Connector
Connects to the Temperature monitoring probe or thermocouple
Converter Cable
Connector (Output)
Connects to the converter.
Power Supply Connector
Connects to the electrical line cord and encases the fuse(s).

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6. 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 a fused, single phase 3-terminal grounding type
electrical outlet. For power requirements, check the label on the back of the unit.
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.
WARNING
For your personal safety, do not, under any
circumstances, defeat the grounding feature of the
power cord by removing the grounding prong.

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7. Operating Instructions (Getting Started)
CAUTION
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 Microtip to vibrate in air.
Do not allow the vibrating Microtip to contact anything but the sample.
Never place a washer between the converter, probe or horn.
Never apply grease to the mating surfaces or threads of the converter, probe or
Microtip.
Should it become necessary to remove a probe, use the wrenches supplied. Never
attempt to remove the probe by twisting the converter housing or holding it in a
vice, as this may damage the electrical connections within the housing.
CAUTION
LOW SURFACE TENSION LIQUIDS –ORGANIC SOLVENTS
The probes (solid or with a replaceable tip) are tuned elements that resonate at a specific frequency.
If the replaceable tip is removed or isolated from the rest of the probe, the element will no longer
resonate at that frequency, and the power supply will fail. Unlike aqueous (water based) solutions
which rarely cause problems, solvents and low surface tension liquids are problematic. These liquids
penetrate the
probe/replaceable tip interface, and force the particulates into the threaded section isolating the tip
from the probe. When processing low surface tension liquids, ALWAYS use a solid probe.
Set-up:
1. Connect the power cord into the receptacle on the rear of the ultrasonic processor.
2. Make sure the unit is switched off. 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.
4. For best results it is critical to use the appropriate size and type of accessory to
process your sample. If you are not sure that you have the proper horn for your sample
volume please refer to the Accessories section of this manual or call the manufacturer
for assistance.
5. Horns/Probes must be properly tightened. Depending on the accessories purchased,
often the horn and the flat tip are attached to the converter at the factory. Check the
tightness of the horn and flat tip by using the wrench set. Please refer to images in the
Maintenance section of this manual. A loose horn or tip may cause damage to the
generator circuitry or parts of the converter and horn. A loose horn may also show a

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fluctuation in wattage readings. Always use the wrenches supplied with the unit.
6. If you will be using a Microtip or extender, remove the flat tip on the end of the
replaceable tip probe, then attached the Microtip or extender in its place.
7. Horns and probe tips wear after normal usage. Using a severely worn probe tip can
damage internal generator components.
8. If using a laboratory stand, mount the convertor /probe assembly using a clamp. Be
sure to secure the clamp to the upper section of the convertor housing only. Never
secure the clamp to any other portion of the convertor/probe assembly. If you are using
an acoustic enclosure mount the convertor properly in the convertor collar.
9. Connect the converter cable to the power supply and then to the top of the convertor.
Push the connectors in and turn the chrome rings clockwise ¼ turn to secure the
connectors.
10.If application or procedure instructs that the unit be run for a period of time that will
allow the probe/convertor assembly to be warm to the touch, it is recommended that
the convertor be air cooled with dry compressed air. Never run the convertor and horn
assembly if it becomes hot. Connect either one of the air fittings on top of the
converter to a source of dry compressed air. This will cool the convertor so that it can
function normally under load for an extended duration without becoming too hot.
Operation:
Your new ultrasonic processor has been designed with a color LCD user interface with
touch screen capabilities. All program and run functions are controlled through the touch
screen panel.
This is the first screen that appears after Ultrasonic processor is switched On.
1. Answer the Microtip Question, Yes or No.
When using a Microtip, the YES button must be selected.

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* If you are not familiar with the microtips and need assistance, please call your
representative for help.
Warning: Improper selection may result in tip damage or poor sonication. Damage caused
by not following this step is not covered under the warranty.
After answering the Microtip question, the following screen appears:
This screen allows the user to select Manual mode, Program menu or Options screen.
2. Select the Mode of Operation or access Options screen.
a. Manual Mode: Selecting Manual Run allows the user to set the unit output
level manually (setting 1 –100%). Starting and stopping the ultrasound
output is also manually performed.
b. Program Mode: Allows the user to create a program with specific On / Off
times and output setting. The ability to save up to 10 programs and
sequence several individual programs together can also be performed in this
mode.
c. Options: Allows the user to change display contrast, and select either ºC or
ºF if temperature monitoring is enabled. Footswitch and temperature probes
are optional items and are not shipped unless specifically ordered with the
unit.
To Manual Mode
To Option Screen
To Program Menu
To Previous
Screen

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The following screen displays the Manual Mode.
A. Microtip Mode –Indicates that the unit is set for use with microtips only. This mode
should not be used w it h standard probes or horns (1/2” or larger). See page 15 for
information on selecting YES or NO at the “ Are you using a Microtip screen” .
B. Amplitude (intensity) setting - Output amplitude may be set between 1-100%.
C. Power displayed in Watts.
D. Energy displayed in Joules.
E. Elapsed Time –Total time of active sonication.
F. Temperature probe measurement (note: if “ OPN” appears, it indicates temperature
monitoring has been activated but the probe is not connected).
G. Temperature probe On/Off indicator. Touch the box to activate temperature
monitoring. A check mark will appear indicating that temperature monitoring is activated.
Select the appropriate Amplitude (intensity setting) for your sample by touching the Up or
Down arrow. Touch Start to begin sonication. Touch Pause to pause sonication.
Manual and Program modes both show the Start, Pause and Exit buttons. After touching
the Start button and activating sonication, the Start button becomes a Stop button. After
touching the Pause button, the Pause button becomes the Resume button.
If sonication is stopped, Energy and Elapsed Time values remain on display. If the Start
button is touched again, the values are reset. If sonication is Paused and Resumed, the
Energy and Elapsed time data will resume counting from the point at which it was paused.
The Temperature Probe option can be selected if you wish to monitor the temperature of
the sample being processed.
B
D
E
G
C
F
A

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Program Menu
The unit can be programmed to sonicate at specific, user-selected time intervals including
pulse mode.
Select/Modify a Program –Create, select or modify up to 10 different programs.
Select/Modify Sequence 1 & 2 –Select a sequence of programs for the unit to run in
succession. A maximum of 6 programs can be sequenced at one time.
Option Screen - The Option menu enables the selection of Temperature units, Footswitch
operational mode and Display contrast.
To Program
Screen
To
Sequence 2
Screen
To
Sequence 1
Screen
To
Previous
Screen
To Option
Screen

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Programming Screen
How To Create a Program
The ultrasonic processor has the ability to save up to 10 programs.
1. Select a program number from the keypad, the program number will appear above the
Amplitude box.
For each of the following steps: After touching a field, the background will change to yellow
indicating an active field. After entering data, the entry is completed by touching Enter (ENT),
touching the field a second time or by touching a new field.
2. Program a value into the Amplitude field.
3. Program total Process Time (total active sonication time).
4. Program Pulse On time –If no data is entered (00hr:00min:00sec), the unit will run
continuously without pulsing.
5. Program Pulse Off time –If no data is entered, the unit will run continuously without pulsing.
Process Time, Pulse On and Pulse Off times are measured in Hours: Minutes: Seconds format.
6. Activate Temperature Monitoring (if necessary).
7. Program a Shutdown Temperature (if necessary). Enter a temperature value.
During sonication, if the temperature reaches the Shutdown value, the unit will pause
sonication. The unit will remain paused until the temperature drops below the pre-set value.
Once the temperature drops below the value, sonication can be manually resumed.
8. Touch Save to store the program to the memory number selected in step 1.
9. Touch Run to proceed to the following screen.
10. Touch Start to begin the program.
Program
Progress
Total time of active
sonication that has occurred
during the current program.
Rest or Off time is not
included in this value.
Total programmed time of
active sonication. Rest or
Off time is not included in
this value.
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