Automated ultrasonics system cleans lenses

The manufacturing division of one of the UK's opticians has invested in an automated ultrasonic system for cleaning lenses in preparation for vacuum coating.

The manufacturing division of one of the UK's best known high street opticians has invested in an automated ultrasonic system for cleaning lenses in preparation for vacuum coating.

The Kerry Compact 450 removes polishing oxide compound from glass and plastic spectacle lenses with diameters of up to 80mm.

Batches of pre-soaked lenses are carried through a selected cleaning program by the Kerry Autotrans Mk4 work transporter.

After ultrasonic cleaning in a solution of water and a special purpose chemical, the lenses are rinsed first in mains water then in de-ionised water.

In each stage vertical agitation of the batch ensures thorough cleaning and rinsing.

Hot air drying completes the process.

The company's previous immersion cleaner had produced rejects requiring hand cleaning.

The automated Kerry system has increased throughput and considerably cut the rejection rate.

* Cleaning trials - following the integration of Kerry Ultrasonics into Guyson International in 2004, Kerry Compact systems are now available from Guyson, who offer demonstrations and free cleaning trials at their main production and demonstration site in Skipton, North Yorkshire and at their Technical and Demonstration Centre in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

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