SediGraph III Plus Particle Size Analyzer

SediGraph III Plus 5125 analyzes particle size using Stokes' Law, making it a unique and dependable tool.

• The global norm for sedimentation-based particle size analysis for more than 50 years
• Stokes’ Law is used to determine the particle size
• View the particle size findings from the size analysis and keep an eye on the particle settling in real-time
• Completely automated and managed using a contemporary software interface
• High throughput MasterTech autosampler option available
• A standard in several important industries, including geology, mining, and ceramics
• Fulfills the standards of Committee C28 on Advanced Ceramics and ASTM B761-06

Description

Based on direct mass concentration measurement, the SediGraph III Plus calculates particle size distributions and statistics, including D10, D50, and D90. Reports, both basic and advanced, are accessible with a single click. An optional MasterTech autosampler can be used in conjunction with the SediGraph III Plus to monitor a manufacturing process continuously and transfer data to the cloud or network for remote access.

Features and Benefits

Intelligent Design Features

With its sophisticated instrumentation features, the SediGraph III Plus guarantees easy and repeatable measurement performance. The device is now easier to use and maintain thanks to new capabilities, and SediGraphs can accurately duplicate the outcomes elsewhere.

Design Improvements Include:

• Ensuring complete particle accountability guarantees that all introduced samples, including fractions smaller than 0.1 µm, are accounted for.
• The ability to combine data from several particle sizing techniques allows the reported data range to be extended to 125,000 µm (125 mm), which is great for geological applications.
• While reducing the amount of time needed to resolve the separation of tiny particles, scanning the sedimentation cell from bottom to top enables an accurate inventory of fast-settling particles
• Completely automated operation lowers operator participation, boosts sample throughput, and lowers the possibility of human error
• Temperature-controlled analyses guarantee that the characteristics of the liquid do not change during the analysis, giving the assurance of precise and repeatable outcomes.
• User can select the ideal speed and resolution combination for needs from a range of analysis speeds
• With a real-time display, the user can keep an eye on the present analysis’s cumulative mass plot and quickly alter the procedure as necessary
• Reports from statistical process control (SPC) monitor how well the processes are doing, enabling quick reaction to changes.
• Plot overlays, such as a reference or baseline analysis or a superposition of two distinct plot types of the same study data, provide for a visual comparison of the results of one or more analyses
• Data comparison plots offer visual representations of the degree to which a data point value is above or below a tolerance border (out of 2), or the mathematical difference between two data sets (difference from reference plot)
• Multiple analyzer control enables two SediGraphs to be handled concurrently from a single computer, saving important lab space and making data storage convenient

Specifications

Source: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation

Technology

In many labs across the globe, the Micromeritics SediGraph is still the preferred standard device for particle size analysis. The SediGraph continues to yield precise findings with exceptional dependability regardless of whether it is used in a controlled laboratory setting or a harsh production environment.

The sedimentation method is used to measure the particle size distribution. Particle mass is directly determined by absorbing X-Rays. Through the use of Stokes’ law to measure the rate at which particles descend through a liquid with given parameters, the SediGraph calculates the equivalent spherical diameter of particles with sizes ranging from 300 to 0.1 micrometers.

This method is combined with cutting-edge technology in the next-generation SediGraph III Plus to provide highly accurate and repeatable particle size data, with the majority of studies taking only minutes to complete.

Applications

Ceramics: The ability to sinter a ceramic powder, its forming capabilities, and the distribution of pore sizes in the final product are significantly influenced by the size range of particles and the mass distribution in each size class. Information on particle size distribution is useful in deciding on curing and bonding processes, managing pore structure, guaranteeing sufficient green body strength, and creating a finished product with the appropriate density, texture, strength, and appearance.

Metal Powders: Very particular pore properties can be engineered into a product by regulating the size of the particles. The key to a product's performance is often its porosity qualities. Particle size distribution affects the strength and density of the final product, green body, and ceramics in a similar way.

Geological/Soil Science: Grain size has an impact on the soil's capability to hold nutrients, drainage rate, and moisture. Sediment movement is directly correlated with grain size.

Cosmetics: The pigments used for coloring and the particle size distribution of basic powders, including talc, have an impact on the look, application, and packaging of cosmetics.

Pigments: A color’s tinting strength can be determined only by the size of its particles. The amount of pigment required to create the desired color intensity decreases with increasing tinting strength. The size of the particles influences the paints' ability to hide. Particle size distribution also affects brightness, color saturation, gloss, and texture.

Catalysts: For structure-sensitive catalytic reactions, a metal's catalytic activity is influenced by its particle size.

Building Materials: Cement particle size influences cement's setting time as well as the final concrete and cement's strength properties.

Minerals and Inorganic Chemicals: Particle size distribution and exposed surface area determine a material's reactivity.

Abrasives: Whether the material is to be utilized in slurries, dry blasting, or bonded abrasive tools, a correctly balanced size distribution of abrasive grains and powders is a crucial factor. When recycling the abrasive material, uniform particle size plays a crucial role in media management by ensuring accurate flow rates via blast machines.

Accessories

Source: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation

Software

Versatile Data Presentation and Reporting System

With its flexible and user-friendly graphical user interface, the SediGraph III Plus offers every useful function users need from a Windows-based application. Point-and-click menus, editable graphs, data export capabilities, reports that may be customized with the lab’s brand graphic, cut-and-paste tables and visuals, and more are some of these features.  

Regardless of the operator’s skill level, custom protocols ensure that subsequent studies are all carried out in the same way by aiding in the planning, execution, and control of the study. Raw data can be gathered, arranged, reduced, archived, and stored with standardized sample data and analytical settings for convenient access in the future. 

Completed reports can be printed on paper, shown on a screen, or moved to storage devices in a number of different forms. 

Data Reporting

For particles with sizes between 300 and 0.1 µm, the SediGraph III Plus automatically provides detailed analytical results. Effective reporting for particles ranging from 125,000 to 0.1 µm is possible by combining data from previous particle size assessments, spanning from 125,000 to 300 µm, with SediGraph data.

Different graphical analysis plot types are available in addition to tabular data, such as:

• Cumulative Mass, Area, and Number
• Settling Velocity Distribution
• Process Control Charts
• Log Probability
• Baseline/Full Scale References
• Frequency Distribution
• Difference From Reference
• Out of Specification
• Rosin-Rammler
• Regression Analyses 

Plots can be superimposed to compare different plot types from the same sample or findings from different samples. Users can then compare analytic outcomes with a reference. Plots can be rescaled so that users can see the graphical data up close.

A column reporting size in Phi units, where Ф= -log2 (particle diameter in mm), has been added to the tables and the x-axis selection in the graphs. Additionally, tables provide the option to pick a column for settling velocity (cm/s). Plots’ x-axis can be scaled in terms of settling velocity or particle size.

Product video. Video Credit: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation

Software video. Video Credit: Micromeritics Instrument Corporation