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Ultrasonic cleaners
LCoins397
Posts: 11 ✭
I'm thinking of buying a ultrasonic cleaner.. any tips? 
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They are vibratory and abrasion may result if not attended.
Do you mean "ultrasonic?"
do not use it on BU coins, it turns them into AU coins
I have used an ultrasonic cleaner to clean circulated coins. I only clean one at at time in a basket or jar that has a concave bottom so the coin only touches the container on the rims. Using a jar greatly diminishes the cleaning power, the basket usually is a better choice. I normally used water with a touch of detergent - like Dawn. It's the cavitation bubbles that do the scrubbing.
It's amazing the amount of gunk it can jar loose in a short period of time.
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A supersonic cleaner? You better wear great ear protection when using it!
My bad. lol
Supersonics tend to be really fuel inefficient. But they are awesome.
I brought my ultrasonic cleaner up in a jet once and went Mach 1.3, does that make it a supersonic cleaner?
Are electric toothbrushes an option?
A small ultrasonic cleaner with acetone (yes, it works and does not harm the coin) and nylon mesh holder to avoid contact damage.... also, the cleaning time needs to be short..the acetone acts on the organic residues and the vibration helps to separate them from the metal....Cheers, RickO
We used ultrasonic cleaners extensively in the company I worked for... from large industrial units to small jewelry type units (none were plastic). I do not recall the brands... been retired for years...just google ultrasonic cleaners... we never allowed fluid to boil.... Cheers, RickO
Not even a "soft" toothbrush would work for that.
I used a unit once a little like this: http://www.harborfreight.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/image_18551.jpg Lining the base with tissue may prevent damage depending on how it is used. There are probably better options.
What type of tissue?
Not sure, it has been a long time; I would rely on others here on conservation. I don't know what ultrasonic cleaners will do that the others won't. I recently bought an Arrows quarter that was toned ugly like a lot of these come; first I tried Conserv., then other mild dips and finally an EZest type that came out well.
I use for cleaning jewelry only. ..never on coins. I have a GemOro heated. They last forever. Don't waste your money on a cheap chinese made ultrasonic cleaner.