Ultrasonic Gun Cleaning
The Ultimate firearm maintenance products are the Crest Ultrasonics line using sound waves to completely clean a firearm inside and out - within ten minutes. Available in a variety of sizes to accommodate handguns and long guns, the system consists of the electrically powered ultrasonic unit that cleans and lubricates the firearm.
In use, the firearm is fieldstripped and degreased, then placed in a stainless basket and lowered into the heated tank containing a cleaning solution. The machine produces (barely audible) high frequency sound waves that cause alternating high and and low pressure resulting in the creation of millions of tiny bubbles that implode on the gun, resulting in a scrubbing action that cleans down to the microscopic level.
The gun is then removed from the cleaning solution, rinsed with clean water and dried with compressed air. The gun is then placed into a separate basket and tank containing lubricant ans` set onto the ultrasonic machine where the firearm is thoroughly lubricated through active bubble action. The gun is removed from the tank and then excess oil is then wiped and blown off the gun with compressed air. The firearm is then reassembled and is ready for use or storage. The complete process, not including fieldstripping and reassembly, can be performed in less than 10 minutes.
The Ultrasonic Cleaning Process
When ultrasonic energy is introduced into the clenaing solution. the foundation of ultrasonic cleaning occurs. Ultrasonic energy causes alternating patterns of low and high pressure phases. During the low-pressure phases, minute bubbles, or vacuum cavities form. During the subsequent hogh-pressure phases phases, the bubbles implode violently. This is called cavitation.
Cavitation provides an intense scrubbing action leading to unsurpassed cleaning speed and consistecy when compared with simple soaking or immersion with agitation. Additionally, the bubbles are small enough to penetrate even microscopic crevices, clenaing them thoroughly and consistently. As a result, ultrasonic cleaning is one of the most effective and efficient methods for cleaning.
The cleaning concentrate used, ChemCrest 235, is a mild alkaline-based cleaner with rust inhibitor. When mixed with water for use, it is nearly odorless. Guns are cleand at approximately 125 degrees F. Approximately 500 firearms can be cleaned with one gallon of CC235 cleaning concentrate, making it one of the most efficient cleaners available. The parts are lubricated with ChemCrest 400L lubricant, and odorless petroleum distillate that lubricates and protects firearms while removing moisture.
The cleaning procedure is safe for both blued and stainless steel firearms, along with night sights, polymer frames and rubber or plastic grips. Wood grips, electronic sights and scope should be removed from the guns before immersion. On multiple firearm cleaning operations, use of the Crest Ultrasonics system increases actual output many times over hand cleaning, with tha parts restored to a uniform standard of factory-new cleanliness.
Finally, get in the habit of cleaning and visually inspecting any new firearm before its first use. Most are treated with oils to preserve their finish, which should be removed before firing. All of these good habits will add to safe practices and enjoyment of the shooting experience.
by Robert M Hausman