Ultrasonic Insights - Eighth Edition
25 kHz and 30 kHz Ultrasonic Inserts – A Notable Difference
Kilohertz: a unit of frequency equal to 1,000 hertz — abbreviation: kHz Kilohertz refers to frequency –for ultrasonic inserts this means how often the insert tip vibrates in an oval, or elliptical, pattern. A 25 kHz insert will vibrate 25,000 cycles per second regardless of the power level setting on the generator. The same is true of a 30 kHz insert—it will move 30,000 cycles per second regardless of the power setting.
Magnetostrictive generators are typically designed to operate at frequencies of 25 kHz or 30 kHz. That is, the generator will cause the insert tip to vibrate either 25,000 times per second or 30,000 times per second. Some generator brands, such as Swerv3™, can accommodate both 25 kHz and 30 kHz inserts with a simple change of the handpiece. For optimal scaling performance, it is critical that the kHz or kilohertz of the insert match that provided by the generator.
Either 25 kHz or 30 kHz inserts will function well to remove debris. However there are some notable differences and it is important to know that the insert types are not interchangeable.
25 kHz Inserts 30 kHz Inserts Longer stack length Shorter stack length Longer handle or grip Shorter handle or grip Tip vibration = 25,000 cycles per second, regardless of generator power setting Tip vibration = 30,000 cycles per second, regardless of generator power setting Generally will not fit in dedicated 30 kHz handpiece. May fit into a 25 kHz handpiece, but will vibrate ineffectively or not at all
Kilohertz and Power Settings The power settings on magnetostrictive generators allow for changes in the length of the oval, or ellipse, produced at the insert tip. Power setting changes do not change the frequency, or number of vibrations per second. A low power setting while using a 30 kHz insert means the oval will be short in length, a high power setting will produce a longer oval path, but tip movement in both cases will be the identical at 30,000 cycles per second. The same is true of 25 kHz inserts.
Low to medium power settings are generally used for light to moderate debris and biofilm removal while medium to high settings are used for removal of moderate to heavy debris. It is advisable to always select the lowest effective power setting for patient comfort and to prevent excess tip wear.
Check the condition of your ultrasonic inserts: Call 1-800-Hu-Friedy and request HF-466 - Ultrasonic Insert Wear Guide.
