28 replies to this topic

[OcalaFlGuy]

• Finally if the plated nib is in contact with the metal tank of the USC itself or maybe a HARD plastic basket, the friction/abrasion could wear through the thin plating.

 

 

IMO, THIS ^^^ is the culprit for Most of the gold wash damage "from sonication".  Sonicate the nib such that the only thing touching it is solution. Otherwise you are basically "sanding on" the thin wash at tens of thousands of times per second.

 

 

Also,

 

DO NOT sonicate Esterbrook Transitional caps. 

 

The screw in jewel retention ring is made from the same material as the pen and is Only friction fitted within the outer cap.

 

IMO, The sonicator CAN compromise that friction fit such that the retaining ring is no longer immobile and turns freely as you attempt to screw the jewel into it.

 

Resetting that retaining ring is a major PIA that Starts with taking the rest of the cap apart.

 

Bruce in Ocala, Fl

Edited by OcalaFlGuy, 30 December 2013 - 07:22 PM.

[David Nishimura]

I never put caps or barrels in an ultrasonic for routine cleaning. Much easier and less risky to use a test tube brush, then rinse with a Water Pik. You don't even have to get the exteriors wet.

[AZuniga]

Thanks for the tip... a mistake I could have made...

[ac12]

@Penmex

I made the mistake for you 

 

As for holding the pen in the USC, I hold the pen with my hand, so the pen does not touch any part of the USC.  Only the nib/feed and section are in the water/cleaner in the USC.  I have not tried it, but a recommendation was given to use an old womans stocking as a bag to hold the pen part (ie feed) to be cleaned.

[OcalaFlGuy]

I've seen a "slat" of stiff cardboard laid across the open top of the cleaner with a hole punched into it to hold the pen at the proper depth. (By friction fit in the hole)

 

Bruce in Ocala, Fl

[ac12]

Good idea Bruce,

That way I'm not tied to the USC and I can do other things.

 

thanks

[Christof Z]

I do not use the ultra sonic cleaner any more.
...not if it's not absolutely necessary
Christof

[piscov]

I never put caps or barrels in an ultrasonic for routine cleaning. Much easier and less risky to use a test tube brush, then rinse with a Water Pik. You don't even have to get the exteriors wet.

 

David, Do you mean this water pik?  The water pressure will not injure the pen?

[David Nishimura]

Yes, I have an older model that is very similar. The pressure will not pose any danger.

I really only use it for rinsing, using the brush to scrub out the old ink.