Abstract: An ultrasonic cleaning apparatus which is configured for transportation to an object positioned for use for in situ cleaning and a method for accomplishing the cleaning. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a substantially planar transducer array which can be employed to clean biofouling from heat exchangers or other devices that are disposed in a contaminated liquid environment. Sufficient levels of power can be generated so that the liquid medium in which the cleaning apparatus is disposed can be caused to undergo cavitation to effect the desired cleaning action. Through the use of various types of instrumentation, areas which need to be cleaned as well as the effectiveness of cleaning and the operating parameters of the apparatus can be determined. The transducers are oriented so that they radiate in alternate directions to produce bi-directional radiation and are energized by a pulsating power input.

Abstract: Biofouling is removed from the external surfaces of spaced apart pipes of a heat exchanger which are in contact with a liquid by positioning a plurality of ultrasonic transducers between the pipes and operating the transducers at sufficient power levels to cause cavitation within the liquid to effect the desired cleaning action. The transducers are arranged in a planar configuration to produce bi-directional acoustic radiation. Various types of instrumentation are provided for determining extent of biofouling and effectiveness of cleaning as well as for monitoring transducer operating parameters.