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Particle size laser analyzer uses different measuring principles to classify and give out the sizes of particles in various materials. Common kinds include:
Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS)
DLS, also known as Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (PCS), measures how much water or other liquid some fine solid powder, when suspended in liquid, scatters a laser beam. The degree to which the beam scatters will depend on how the particles are moving because smaller particles will move faster than bigger ones as they vibrate with Brownian motion. Analyzers using DLS are good for measuring powders that are in the nanometer to micron range, especially in liquid suspensions.
Laser Diffraction
This technique works by studying how a laser beam passes through or is scattered by a sample of material in suspension or a powder viewed in a lens. As particles pass through the laser, they will diffract in proportion to their size. The data collected will then be used in conjunction with a mathematical model to give the particle size distribution. This method is considered appropriate for micron to millimeter-sized particles and is mostly applied in dry and liquid substance analyses.
Near-Infrared (NIR) Reflection
Effective for measuring particle sizes below 1mm, NIR Reflection works by bouncing near-infrared light off the surface of a material to measure its particle size and distribution. Depending on the particle size, the reflected light will vary in intensity. This technique is efficient for substances with a regular and reflective surface, like powders and grains.
Focused Beam Reflectance Measurement (FBRM)
This technique uses a circular probe with a laser that can 'see' particles in a liquid by reflecting off them. The probe sends out a laser beam, and when a particle crosses the beam, it can tell the size and how the beam scatters. Smaller particles scatter the beam more evenly, while larger ones reflect more laser light. Measuring how the beam scatters lets it see and size hundreds of particles at once in real time. FBRM is useful for sampling in liquids and slurries, looking at particles that are a few hundred microns across.
Particle size analyzers, especially laser ones, are very important because so many different industries require the precise measurement of particle size distribution. Here are some example uses:
Pharma and Biotech
In the pharmaceutical industry, particle size affects how well drugs dissolve and are absorbed by the body. Laser analyzers help control this by tuning how active ingredients and excipients are ground or mixed. For example, an asthma drug might require very fine particles measured in nanometers to ensure deep lung penetration for effective inhalation. Quality control in laser analysis prevents particle size shifting, which could lead to ineffective or unsafe doses. Vaccines also benefit from monitoring particle size in formulations to ensure stability and efficacy.
Food and Beverage
Controlling particle size during grinding ensures desired textures and product quality in food and drinks. For instance, laser analysis helps achieve the right coffee grind coarseness and chocolate liqueur particle fineness for consistent brewing and conching results. It also helps control the uniformity of suspended particles such as pulp in juices or cream in dairy to maintain quality. It measures powdered milk particle sizes to ensure effective rehydration. Particle size control leads to improved taste, texture, and product stability in the industry.
Material
Particle size lasers are essential in quality control in the cement, ceramics, and composites industries. They analyze raw material powders and finished products like cement blends to ensure uniformity of particle sizes. Consistent particle sizes in cement lead to stronger concrete and better construction outcomes. In ceramics, particle size affects glaze smoothness and firing behavior, which in turn impacts final tile, brick, or pottery quality. For composites, fine laser particle size analysis ensures proper mixing and bonding occurs between different material powders for predicted strength and performance. Standardization of particle size across these industries ensures consistency and quality.
Metallurgy and Mining
Laser analyzers help optimize grinding processes by providing real-time feedback on the particle size distribution of ores and milled materials. This data can then be used to adjust milling operations to ensure the particles are sized appropriately for efficient extraction of metals like gold, copper, or iron during the subsequent separation processes. In mineral processing, controlling the particle size of tailings - the waste rock - can improve the recovery rates of valuable minerals as it influences how effectively the separation techniques such as flotation or leaching will work. Keeping particle sizes in the ideal range leads to higher yields and more cost-effective operations in mining.
Laser particle size analyzers utilize laser diffraction or other unique light scattering techniques to measure the particle size distribution. Here are sample technical specs for a typical instrument:
Measurement Range
Usually, most particle size analyzers have a particle size measurement range of about 0.1 micron to 500 microns. This large range allows the instrument to measure a wide range of sample materials, from very fine powders to coarser grains.
Laser Wavelength
Many of these analyzers use a laser with a wavelength of around 650 nm in the visible spectrum. This particular wavelength is ideal for accurately measuring particle sizes through diffraction estimation.
Accuracy
The typical accuracy is around 1% to 2%, enabling precise measurements of particle sizes. This high accuracy allows for very fine distinctions between particle sizes to be made.
Repeating
Typical repeatability is around 0.5%-1%, which ensures consistent results over multiple measurements. This high repeatability means the instrument produces the same results when measuring the same sample numerous times under the same conditions.
Sample Volume
Typically, a sample volume of about 15 mL is required for each measurement. This small sample size allows for quick analysis without requiring large quantities of material.
Operation Conditions
These analyzers generally operate at temperatures between 10°C and 40°C. This wide range of temperatures allows it to be used effectively in many different environments.
Proper setup and calibration of particle size analyzers are key to getting accurate results when measuring particles. Follow these steps to install and get ready to go:
Locate the Analyzer
First, find a place to put the instrument where there is enough space. The area should be fairly free from vibrations, and there should be room around the instrument. Make sure the setting is indoor and the temperature is stable.
Level It
An analyzer needs to be placed on a flat surface so it does not tilt. Use a spirit level and adjust the feet until it sits completely level.
Connect Power
Plug the instrument into an electric outlet and turn it on. Make sure the outlet supplies correct voltage without fluctuation.
Link to Computer
Laser particle size analyzers often require connection to a computer to record and analyze results. Use the provided USB or data cables to link the two. Install any required programs or drivers for the computer software to operate correctly with the analyzer hardware.
Calibration
It is important to regularly calibrate instruments to maintain accuracy. Follow the directions for using standardized reference materials to establish a baseline measurement range for the analyzer. Once this range is set, the analyzer can compare it to sample results to determine particle sizes.
Once the particle size analyzer is installed and calibrated, it is ready for use. Proper operating procedures will ensure accurate and consistent results when measuring particle size distributions.
Prepare Samples
Begin by getting the sample material to analyze. If the material is powdery, it should be broken up into small pieces. Make sure the particles are uniform in size and not clumpy. For powders, use a sieve to screen out any oversized particles. If the material is in slurry form, mix it well to keep the particles suspended evenly throughout. This preparation ensures the sample is of the right size for analysis and that any settled particles are stirred up.
Add to Container
Following the preparation, put a small amount of the prepared sample material into the analyzer's sample container. Fill the container up to the marked fill line without overfilling it. Expert users recommend using the included brush to evenly spread the sample across the bottom of the container so it provides a flat surface. Confirm that there are no large clumps or aggregates present in the sample before starting.
Run Analysis
Select the "start" button when ready to commence the analysis. The laser will then shine through the sample, and sensors will record how the particles scatter the light. The results are instantaneously processed and displayed on the screen as a particle size distribution graph.
Frequent maintenance of a particle size laser analyzer guarantees it continues to work accurately and stays in good condition over time. Key tasks include:
Keep it Clean
The key components, especially the laser and detectors, must be kept free of dust and particles. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the inside and outside after each use so leftover sample material does not mix with new analyses. Compressed air can remove built-up particles from hard-to-reach spots.
Check Alignment
Periodically, verify that the laser and detector are aligned as intended. Misalignment can lead to erroneous results. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for alignment checks and adjustments in case they come misaligned after much usage.
Apply Lubrication
Put lubricant where required on moving parts, such as drives and shutters. This reduces friction and prevents wear. Apply only as directed to avoid grease accumulation, which attracts dirt.
Monitor Software
Update the analyzer software regularly so the latest functions and: or fixes are available. Check for updates on the manufacturer's website or enable automatic downloads to install new releases as they become available.
Service it
Have a professional technician inspect it at least once a year to maintain peak performance. Replace any worn or damaged components like lasers, mirrors, or detectors, so they do not hinder accuracy. Use only authentic parts made for this specific model so repairs do not interfere with future maintenance.
Laser particle size analyzers grant fast and accurate readings of powder or particle size in various conditions. For consistent accuracy, several factors must be quality-controlled:
Calibration
It entails comparing the analyzer readings against standard known reference particle sizes and adjusting the settings to reduce any discrepancy revealed. Regularly ensures that the results match established standards, so there is no deviation from accuracy over time.
Maintenance
Frequent maintenance and inspection of instrument components, such as the lasers and detectors, are fundamental to acquire steady performance. It also involves cleaning and optimal settings to reduce errors caused by dirt or wear.
Environment Control
The surrounding conditions where the analysis takes place must be controlled regarding temperature, vibration, and air current, just as in a clinical lab. Minor changes in any of these factors could affect the readings, leading to inconsistent results.
Operator Training
Certified personnel undergo training on using analyzer software properly and preparing samples correctly. Unskilled handling leads to mistakes that change quality due to improper use of tools or misinterpretation of results.
Data Processing
Proper and careful application of numerical techniques during analysis makes certain that results are accurate according to collected data. If software functions are applied without proper correction, this could lead to errors in estimates of size distributions.
A few safety protocols must also be observed when handling materials and operating laser analyzers:
Eye Protection
Since laser beams are in use, always remember to wear safety goggles protecting against the particular laser wavelength used to prevent possibly permanent damage from unwarranted exposure.
Material Handling
Much like any other industrial process, inhaling fine particles can have harmful effects on the respiratory system. Always remember to use face masks or respirators after analyzing powders. Avoid letting clouds of dust settle in the atmosphere around the workspace.
Chemical Precautions
Should samples contain any hazardous chemicals, deal with them as prescribed. This includes putting on gloves and protective clothing as well as working with materials in fume hoods.
Electrical Safety
As with any electrical piece of machinery, one should be careful about the current and take precautions to avoid shocks. Avoid touching any electrical wires or connections with wet hands.
A1: Laser diffraction particle size analyzers typically measure particles ranging from 0.1 microns to around 3 millimeters. It is always recommended to check specific product details for the precise range.
A2: These analyzers are widely applied in the pharmaceutical, food and beverage, chemical, and material manufacturing industries. Essentially, they are useful anywhere that tracking particle size helps improve quality control of products.
A3: They work by measuring how a laser light scatters when passing through a sample. The pattern of scattering provides information on the particle sizes present, based on the principle of light diffraction.
A4: While primarily designed for spherical assumptions, they provide reasonably accurate results for irregularly shaped particles when those particles approximate a specific ratio of shape to size.
A5: Perform routine cleanings of the interior and laser components. Follow recommended maintenance schedules from the manufacturer for calibration and inspections to ensure ongoing accuracy.
