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Oggies Music - Ultrasonic Cleaning

Quick Link: Carburettor Cleaning

The Ultimate in Instrument Cleaning

All instruments need to be cleaned regularly.

At Oggies Music we advise on the correct cleaning techniques and supplies for you to use on your instrument. We also recommend that a instrument should have regular check ups and service, and at Oggies Music this includes an annual ultrasonic clean to restore the instruments airflow. The ultrasonic cleaner does more than a brush could ever manage by removing dried saliva, oils, grease, dirt, lime scale, and perspiration acids. The use of ultrasonic cleaning compared to traditional methods is also environmentally friendly and in some cases kinder to the instrument.

Ultrasonic Cleaning is being recognised by musicians, band leaders and teachers as a process that should be carried out on a regular basis. As part of a service, Ultrasonic Cleaning can be applied to both brass and woodwind instruments. By combining an ultrasonic clean with a full service, the instrument can be safely disassembled before cleaning. This also allows for damaged or worn parts such as springs, washers, corks or pads to be replaced. After a quick shine you have a fully serviced instrument that feels like new.

Before Cleaning

After Cleaning

At Oggies Music we believe that that an instrument should be cared for, by caring for your instrument you can also take care of yourself. Infection control researchers at the Oklahoma State University, examined brass and woodwind instruments shared by school students and found they were germ-laden and acted as potential‘reservoirs of disease'. Micro-organisms linked to asthma, skin infections and other illnesses and allergies were found on 13 instruments used by a high school band. Their findings were reported in a study published in the March/April issue of the journal, General Dentistry.So an ultrasonic clean can not only clean and recover your instrument, but can help to protect the player as well.

Not heard of Ultrasonic Cleaning?

Ultrasonic Cleaning is a very thorough way of cleaning that has been around for many years, in commercial settings including the jewellery and medical world. It is a highly effective powerful means to reach intricate hard to reach places, yet it is gentle on the components. Cleaning inside and out, the power and versatility of Ultrasonic Cleaning makes it perfect for musical instruments. The process has for some time been used on Musical Instruments in the Unites States, but is a relatively new technique for repairers in the UK.

The cleaning action is performed by minute bubbles generated by a process called cavitation. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted into the cleaner or bath from an ultrasonic generator located on the bottom of the tank. When the bubbles hit the surface of the instrument they implode, which blasts away the debris. As dramatic sounding as this phrase is, the blast is minute and less dramatic than pushing a brush through the instruments or rubbing the surface with a cloth. The bubbles reach the smallest of crevices and cracks in the calcium, removing food debris effortlessly.

What the cleaning process involves

The process of ultrasonic cleaning is relatively simple once the instrument has been disassembled. The instrument is degreased and rinsed and then placed in the ultrasonic cleaner. The process is best combined with a general service and check up as all non metal items have already been removed. Once the instrument has been prepared it is simply placed in a basket, and dipped into the tank. When completed the instrument is reassembled, lubricated and any parts replaced.

What else can be cleaned?

At Oggies Music we are happy to use the Ultrasonic Cleaner for cleaning other items. Please note we only clean the parts or items as you have supplied them, we do not disassemble or reconstruct items other then musical instruments. This is because we cannot be responsible for damage to screws and threads that could get unwittingly damaged.

The items to be cleaned must be supplied as you wish them to be cleaned. If you need it cleaned so that it can be disassembled that is fine, the item or items will simply be remove from the box or container and placed in the machine as it is supplied. When cleaned they will be returned to you for reassembling; they may then undergo further cleaning.

The maximum stainless steel basket size of the cleaner is 900mmX400mmX370mm. Large items may mean that the whole cleaner needs to be utilised, such use will need to be planned so as not to prevent day to day work being interrupted. If you have an item not listed or is oversized please call to discuss the requirement and cost.

All items need to be disassembled and dirty oily items need to be pre cleaned. Where possible supply in a box or container, the box should be clearly labelled with your name and address and how many items (This will be checked on arrival, before and after cleaning). We also advise the taking of pictures for extra piece of mind, to monitor the cleaning progress and general security.
Some of the items that have been proven to benefit from ultrasonic cleaning:

  • Carburettors - Ultrasonic waves can reach the smallest crevices to clean carburettors
  • Rusty Equipment and tools - It is easy to allow your precious and expensive tools and equipment to go rusty. If your preference is not to replace them then consider an ultrasonic clean which will also removed all the other grease and grime.
  • Lawn and Garden Equipment - Having been stored away for the winter, garden equipment engines with gummed fuel lines, or blocked carburettors.

Rusty mower blades awaiting sharpening.

  • Food and Beverage Equipment - Where your favourite pan has become damaged by food stains, or by excessive calcium build up. The process is partially effective for those hard to clean items.

 

Carburettor Cleaning

Ultrasonic cleaning reaches the smallest of crevasses thus making it ideal for cleaning carburettors.

All items need to be disassembled and dirty oily items need to be pre cleaned and degreased with washing up liquid.

Where possible supply in a box or container, the box should be clearly labelled with your name and address and how many items (This will be checked on arrival, before and after cleaning).

We also advise the taking of pictures for extra piece of mind, to monitor the cleaning progress and general security.

The items to be cleaned must be supplied as you wish them to be cleaned.

Please Take Note:

If you need it cleaned to assist with disassembly that is fine, the item or items will simply be removed from the box or container and placed in the machine as it is supplied. The cleaner can assist in this process, but there is no guarantee to release threads or joints.

When being cleaned to aid disassembling, we will make a preliminary inspection to ensure that the cleaner have functioned correctly; we are unable to ensure that debris has been removed internally and once disassembled, the item may then need to undergo further cleaning or rinsing.

Prices

Single motorcycle carburettor

£20

Two motorcycle carburettors

£38

Three motorcycle carburettors

£56

Four motorcycle carburettors

£74


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