In the United States:

For customer service, call 1-800-766-7000

To fax an order, use 1-800-926-1166

To order online: fishersci.com

© 2018 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.

Trademarks used are owned as indicated at fishersci.com/trademarks.

BN0707105

Sonic Dismembrator

Ultrasonic Liquid Processor

Operations Manual Part No. FB-50
Page 2 of 20

Rev. 9-20 
Page 3 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

1. WARRANTY ........................................................................................................... 4

2. WARNINGS ............................................................................................................ 5

3. SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................. 6

4. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION .............................................................................. 8

5. DESCRIPTIONS OF COMPONENTS / FUNCTIONS OF CONTROLS ................. 9

5.1.FB50 FRONT PANEL ....................................................................................... 9

5.2.FB50 REAR PANEL ......................................................................................... 9

5.3.FUNCTIONS OF KEYS CONTROLS & CONNECTORS ................................ 10

5.4.CONVERTER CLAMPING .............................................................................. 11

6. PREPARATION FOR USE ................................................................................... 12

7. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................................. 13

7.1.CAUTION ........................................................................................................ 13

7.2.SETUP ............................................................................................................ 13

7.3.OPERATION ................................................................................................... 14

8. MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................... 15

8.1.PROBE MAINTENANCE ................................................................................ 15

8.2.ATTACHING & DETACHING PROBES .......................................................... 16

8.3.SYSTEM CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................... 17

9. TROUBLESHOOTING .......................................................................................... 17

10. RETURN OF EQUIPMENT ................................................................................... 17

11. SAFETY CERTFICATION FORM ......................................................................... 18

12. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS .................................................................. 19

 
Page 4 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

1. WARRANTY 

Your Sonic Dismembrator is warrantied 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. 

 
Page 5 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

2. WARNINGS 

Please read the manual in its entirety. Necessary instruction and guidance are provided to help 

ensure the successful operation of this device. Observe the following: 

 High voltage is present in the generator (power supply), converter and high frequency cable. There are no userserviceable 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 prior 

to plugging in unit. 

 Install the Sonicator 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 touch the tip of a vibrating 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). 

 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 sample vessel with an activated probe. It may crack or shatter the glass 

or melt the plastic. Use glassware that is free from cracks or chips. 

 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 Main power switch while running a probe. Stop sonication by lowering intensity setting knob to 0 

or release thumb switch. 

Symbols 

 Caution, Risk of electric shock, Hazardous voltage.

 Caution, Risk of danger. Refer to User Manual.

 
Page 6 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

3. SPECIFICATIONS 

AC Adapter 

Input Voltage 90 VAC - 264 VAC @ 50/60 Hz 1.5A 

Output Voltage 24V DC, 3.75A 

Rated Power 90 Watts 

Power Supply

Input Voltage 24 VDC 

Rated Power 55 Watts 

Weight 3 lbs. (1.36 Kg) 

Dimensions 8"W x 7.5"L x 5.75"H 

200mm x 190mm x 146mm 

Output Voltage 250 VRMS 

Output Frequency 20 KHz 

Converter

Weight 0.75 lbs. (0.34Kg) 

Dimensions 6" L x 1.25" Dia. 

(15cm x 3cm) 

Materials Aluminum Alloy 

Standard 1/8” Probe

Weight 0.25 lbs. (0.11Kg) 

Dimensions 5.4" L x 0.5" Dia. 

(13.8cm x 1.3cm) 

Materials Titanium Alloy 

 
Page 7 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

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 - 49 oC) 

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 

The AC Adapter supplied with the ultrasonic processor must be used. If the 230VAC 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. Manufacturer is not responsible for

damage caused by the use of an improper power cord or adapter. Transformers are not recommended. 

 
Page 8 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

4. PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION 

The ultrasonic electronic generator transforms DC 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 probe where the tip 

longitudinally expands and contracts. The distance the tip travels is dependent on the 

amplitude/intensity setting selected by turning the output control knob. 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 deliver high intensity sonication but the energy is focused within a small, 

concentrated area. Probes with larger tip diameters can process larger volumes, but offer 

lower intensity. 

The choices of a power supply 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 frequently asked questions (FAQ) section has more information on this 

subject. 

Please consult with a product specialist for assistance with selecting a probe for your 

application. 

 
Page 9 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

5. DESCRIPTIONS OF COMPONENTS / FUNCTIONS OF CONTROLS 

5.1. FB50 FRONT PANEL 

5.2. FB50 REAR PANEL 

 

Power Supply 

Converter 

1/8” Probe 

(#FB4422) 

Converter 

Cable 

Footswitch 

Jack 

Converter Cable 

Connector 

DC Power 

Input 

Lab Stand 

with Clamp 

(sold separately) 
Page 10 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

5.3. FUNCTIONS OF KEYS CONTROLS & CONNECTORS 

 FRONT PANEL 

Power Switch 

ON Position – energizes the power supply. 

OFF Position – de-energizes the power supply. 

Illuminates when the power supply is energized

Amplitude Control Knob Controls the amplitude/intensity of vibrations at the probe tip

REAR PANEL 

Footswitch Jack/Connector Connects to the footswitch cable. 

Converter Cable Connector 

(Output) Connects the power supply output to the converter. 

DC Power (Input) 

Adapter Connector Connects the power supply to the DC adapter. 
Page 11 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

5.4. CONVERTER CLAMPING 

Improper clamping can damage the system and void the warranty. Using a sound 

enclosure (part #FB432A) or stand (part #FB460) will ensure a proper fit. 

 

 Proper Clamping Improper Clamping 

 
Page 12 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

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 24 volts DC. A universal 98V~264V @ 47~63Hz AC, to DC 

switch-mode power supply capable of delivering 24 volts at 3.75 amperes is supplied with your 

system. 

If it is necessary to convert the unit for different voltage operation, proceed as follows: 

1. Ensure that the power cord is not connected to the electrical outlet. 

2. Change the electrical power cord or add a properly grounded universal AC socket 

adapter as required. 

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. 
Page 13 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

7. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 

7.1. CAUTION 

 Do not operate continuously for more than 1 minute. 

 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 probe to vibrate in air for more than 10 seconds. 

 Do not allow the vibrating probe to contact anything but the sample. 

 Never place a washer between the probe and the converter. 

 Never apply grease to the mating surfaces or threads of the converter or probe. 

 Should it become necessary to remove a probe, use the wrenches supplied. Never attempt 

to remove the probe by twisting the converter housing, as this may damage the electrical 

connections within the housing. 

Note: The temperature of the converter front area (where the probe attaches) should never 

exceed 60oC (140oF). If this temperature is reached, shut the system off and allow to 

cool. 

Do not allow the system to operate for more than 1 minute without a rest or pulse to prevent 

overheating. 

7.2. SETUP 

1. Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0. 

2. 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. Do 

not insert footswitch plug while the system is powered on. 

4. Probes must be properly tightened. If the convertor and probe assembly is not already 

assembled; screw the probe onto the converter and using the wrenches provided tighten it 

securely. Check the tightness of an already assembled probe by using the wrench 

set. Please refer to images in the Maintenance section of this manual for tightening 

instructions. A loose probe may cause damage to the generator circuitry or parts of the 

converter and probe. Always use the wrenches supplied with the unit.

5. Small Sonicators such as the FB50 should be operated in on and off pulses to prevent the 

converter from overheating. Overheating the converter can cause permanent damage, 

may crack the probe tip and will void the warranty.

To prevent sample overheating, sonication can be manually pulsed on and off by manually 

turning the amplitude knob setting up/down as needed or using a foot switch. 

Important: Do not flip the main power switch on/off to pulse sonication. 

6. Probe tips wear after normal use. Using a severely worn probe tip can damage internal 

generator components. 
Page 14 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

7. If using a laboratory stand, mount the converter/probe assembly using a clamp. Be sure to 

secure the clamp to the upper section of the convertor housing only (see page 10). Do not 

secure the clamp to any other portion of the convertor/probe assembly. 

8. Connect the converter cable to the power supply. 

7.3. OPERATION 

Continuous mode: 

1. Ensure that the amplitude control knob is set to 0. 

2. Set the converter and probe assembly in a stand or hold the convertor in your hand. 

3. Turn the unit on. 

4. Immerse the probe tip half way into the sample. If the probe is immersed to an insufficient 

depth, air will be injected into the sample, causing the sample to foam. Also ensure that 

the probe tip is not touching the wall of the sample vessel as it may be damaged and it will 

not vibrate properly. 

5. Turn the amplitude setting dial to the intensity that you wish to run the unit at. 

6. Sonicate sample for the desired amount of time and then turn the amplitude setting dial 

back to 0. 

Note: sonication will generate heat and pulsed sonication is recommended to prevent 

overheating of both the sample and converter. Chilling the sample using an ice bath or 

other appropriate method is recommended. 

Continuous sonication should be limited to 1 minute. Longer sonication time should be 

done in a pulse mode. 

 
Page 15 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

8. MAINTENANCE 

It is recommended to periodically inspect the unit, both visually and physically, to ensure 

optimum and safe performance. This inspection should be scheduled as a routine 

maintenance procedure, done with the unit power OFF and with the unit unplugged from the 

AC power source. 

Long exposure to acids or caustics results in corrosion of metal parts or components. Check 

the power supply, converter, and cables periodically for any signs of rust or discoloration. If 

discoloration is found, move the unit away from the source of the contaminant. 

Examine the condition of the high voltage cable that attaches the converter to the generator. 

Inspect the wire insulation for damage, such as wear, burning from hot plate contact or 

breakage from extended use or rough handling. In general use, the cable assembly should not 

be used to carry the converter or pull it toward the user. Make certain the cable always has 

slack and is never tensioned. If necessary, move the generator or converter assembly closer 

to one another to accomplish this. 

WARNING: Do not use a cable with broken end connections, exposed wires or frayed 

insulation. High voltage is present in the cable and will pose a shock hazard. Do not touch the 

converter assembly until the power switch is off and the unit is unplugged. 

8.1. PROBE MAINTENANCE 

Ultrasonic processors create high intensity vibration which puts stress on the converter and 

horn assembly. The sides and end of the probe must never be allowed to come in contact 

with anything but the solution. When using a probe, the stress resulting at the point of contact 

with the vessel could cause the small probe tip to fracture. 

Proper care of the probe is essential for dependable operation. The intense cavitation will, 

after usage for period of time, cause the tip to erode, and the power output to decrease. The 

smoother and shinier the tip, the more power will be transmitted into the sample. The vibrations 

may also cause the probe tip to loosen over time or the threaded connection to accumulate 

debris. Note: A loose probe will usually generate a loud piercing or squealing sound. 

For that reason, it is recommended that a preventative maintenance schedule be adopted 

to examine the unit at regular intervals. The schedule should depend on frequency of use. 

Weekly maintenance schedules are recommended for units used frequently or monthly for 

those used infrequently. The tip must be examined for excessive wear and to ensure that the 

threaded connection is clean and attached properly to the convertor. Use a cotton swab and 

alcohol (i.e. ethanol, isopropyl, etc.) to clean the threaded mating surfaces. 

When excessive wear (corrosion/pitting of the probe tip) is detected the probe should be 

replaced with a new one.

WARNING: Probes must be properly tightened with the appropriate Wrench Set. 
Page 16 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

8.2. ATTACHING & DETACHING PROBES 

1. Disconnect probe from convertor. Use the wrench set provided with the system. 

2. Clean threaded stud. Use alcohol and a cotton swab to remove any debris on the 

threading of the connecting stud. Allow the alcohol to dry completely. 

3. Clean threading in converter. Use alcohol and a cotton swab to remove any debris on the 

threading. Do not allow liquid to drip into converter. Allow the alcohol to dry completely. 

4. Re-attach probe to converter. Screw the probe back onto the converter and tighten with the 

wrench set provided. 

 
Page 17 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

8.3. SYSTEM CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS 

The power supply and converter may be cleaned using an acid-free cleaning solution (i.e. glass 

cleaner). 

Probes should be cleaned using isopropyl alcohol. Probes are made from titanium and can be 

autoclaved (the converter is an electrical part and cannot be sterilized in this manner). Before 

each procedure place the probe tip in water or alcohol and turn the power on for a few seconds 

to remove residue. The tip also can be sterilized using alcohol with the power on. 

9. TROUBLESHOOTING 

The most probable causes for malfunction are listed below and should be investigated. 

 A connector or cable is damaged. 

 The probe is not tightened properly with the wrenches provided.

 The converter and/or probe has been dropped.

 A probe being operated is damaged or worn past its useful life.

If the problem persists after inspecting all of these, please contact Customer Service for 

additional assistance or to replace a worn probe or damaged part. 

10. RETURN OF EQUIPMENT 

It is suggested that an Ultrasonic Processor in need of repair be sent back to the factory. 

In order to receive prompt service; always contact your Customer Service representative 

before returning any instrument. Include date of purchase, model number and serial number. 

Please obtain a Return Authorization Number prior to returning the instrument. 

Care should be exercised to provide adequate packing to insure against possible damage in 

shipment. The Ultrasonic Processor should be sent to the “Service Department” with all 

transportation charges prepaid and return of shipment indicated. 

Important 

The user must certify that the ultrasonic processor and/or the accessories returned for repair 

are free of any biohazardous or radioactive material and are safe for handling. Please 

complete the “Safety Certification” form on the next page and send it in with your equipment. 

Do not return any equipment unless such a certification can be made. 

 
Page 18 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

11. SAFETY CERTFICATION FORM 

Items being returned: 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

___________________________________________________________________________ 

Please check only one item below: 

___ The equipment was never used or exposed to any radiological, biological or chemical 

agents and is safe to handle, use or dispose of. 

___ The equipment was used but not in conjunction with or exposed to any radiological, 

geological or chemical agents and is safe to handle, use, or dispose of. 

___The equipment was used in conjunction with or exposed to radiological, biological, or 

chemical agents and has been decontaminated, rendering it safer for handling, use, or 

disposal. 

Authorization 

By accepting authorization to return the equipment listed above, the undersigned assumes all 

responsibility and liability for radiological, biological and chemical decontamination. Delivery of 

the equipment can be refused if necessary documentation is not provided or where it is 

determined that the equipment has not been properly decontaminated. If it is determined that 

the equipment was not properly decontaminated, the Authorized Repair Facility reserves the 

right to bill the customer for any and all costs associated with the decontamination and/or 

appropriate disposal of the equipment. In the event the equipment has been exposed to 

radiological contamination, the signature of the Radioactive Safety Officer is required. 

Print name: ___________________________________ RA # ___________________ 

Signature: ____________________________________ Date: __________________ 

 
Page 19 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

12. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

Probe size vs. Sample volume 

Selecting the proper size probe is a critical factor when sonicating a sample. The sample 

volume to be processed must correlate with the tip diameter. Each probe has a recommended 

sample volume range. This range may overlap with other probes. For example, the 1/8” probe 

is recommended for approximately 0.5-15ml. Depending on the application and type of 

sample, you may be able to process a volume outside of our recommended range. 

Small volumes require a small tip diameter. Small probes (1⁄4” or less) are recommended for 

processing samples inside small, thin vessels such as microcentrifuge tubes. These small 

probe sizes are high intensity and made for short processing times. Using a small probe tip for 

long time periods will generate a considerable amount of heat. Pulse mode should be used to 

reduce heat buildup. 

While there is no absolute sample volume range for any probe/horn, below is a general 

guideline to follow. Using a sample volume outside each tip diameter’s range is normally not 

recommended. 

Tip Diameter Processing Volume Range

1/16" (2mm) 0.2ml - 5ml 

1/8" (3mm) 0.5ml - 15ml 

1/4" (6mm) 10ml - 50ml 

Vessel shape and size 

A narrow vessel is preferable to a wide vessel. The ultrasonic energy is generated from the tip 

and is directed downward. As a sample is processed the liquid is pushed down and away in all 

directions. If the vessel is too wide, it will not mix effectively and some sample will remain 

untreated at the periphery. The probe should never touch the sides or bottom of the vessel. 

How to prevent foaming (small sample issue) 

Foaming is a problem that often occurs with samples volumes below 1ml. The cause of 

foaming is generally 3 issues: amplitude is too high for a small volume, tip is too large for the 

volume, or the tip is not inserted to a proper depth. 

Tip depth 

The depth of the probe within the liquid is an important issue. If the probe is too close to the 

surface of the liquid, it can create foam. If the probe is too deep, it may sonicate against the 

bottom of the vessel and not effectively processing the sample. The sample must flow freely 

below the tip in order to be mixed effectively. Without effective mixing you cannot ensure the 

entire sample volume will pass below the tip and become processed. 

The probe should be submerged approximately halfway into the liquid but there are exceptions. 

Before processing actual samples, it is recommended to test the probe in a vessel filled with 

water to observe the ultrasonic energy and the flow pattern of the liquid. During this test you 

can adjust the probe’s depth until you see adequate mixing and movement of the water. 
Page 20 of 20

Rev. 9-20 

Power vs. intensity 

Power is the measure of the electrical energy that is being delivered to the converter. At the 

convertor, the electrical energy is transformed into mechanical energy. It does this by exciting 

the piezoelectric crystals causing them to move in the longitudinal direction within the 

convertor. This change from electrical into mechanical energy causes a motion that travels 

through the horn/probe causing the tip to move up and down. 

The distance of one movement up and down is called its amplitude. The amplitude is 

adjustable. Each probe has a maximum amplitude value. For example, with a 1/8” diameter 

probe at setting 100%, the probe will achieve an amplitude of approximately 180μm. At setting 

50% the amplitude is approximately 90μm. Note: this value is approximate and not perfectly 

linear. We measure the amplitude of each probe at 100% and these values are published in 

the brochure. 

Amplitude and intensity have a direct relationship. If you operate at a low amplitude setting, you 

will deliver low intensity sonication. If you operate at a high amplitude setting, you will have 

high intensity sonication. In order to be able to reproduce results, the amplitude setting, 

temperature, viscosity and volume of the sample are all parameters that need to remain 

consistent. The amplitude, not the power, is most critical when trying to reproduce sonication 

results. 

Power has a variable relationship with amplitude/intensity. For example, sonicating water 

requires less wattage when compared to a viscous sample (such as oil). While sonicating both 

samples at the same amplitude setting the power/wattage will differ because the viscous 

sample will require more watts in order to drive the horn. The viscous sample puts a heavier 

load on the probe so they system must work harder to vibrate up and down at the same 

amplitude setting. The oil may draw double the watts when operated at the same amplitude as 

the water sample. 

Viscosity Limitations 

Viscous solutions and highly concentrated liquids can be difficult to sonicate. If the liquid is so 

thick that it cannot be easily poured out of a vessel it is likely too viscous to be sonicated. 

Keeping Samples Cool 

Ultrasonic processing causes the liquid temperature to elevate especially with small volumes. 

Pulsed sonication is always recommended. The addition of an ice bath, Coolrack or 

recirculating chiller to cool the sample vessel is strongly suggested. 

 
In the United States:

For customer service, call 1-800-766-7000

To fax an order, use 1-800-926-1166

To order online: fishersci.com

© 2018 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved.

Trademarks used are owned as indicated at fishersci.com/trademarks.

BN0707105