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About powder particle size analyzer

Types

Powder particle size analyzers on the market today are many. They come with different features and distinct operational mechanisms.

Sieves and sieve shakers

This is the most straightforward type of powder particle size analyzers. These types of devices have been in use for decades. These devices measure particle size by evaluating the sieve that each particle passes through. A set of mesh sieves with different openings is used to obtain the particle size distribution of a sample. The powder is put on the top sieve. Then, the sieve shaker vibrates or agitates the stack. Eventually, sieves with finer openings are found at the bottom. This method enables the users to see the distinct measurable ranges of each powder’s particle sizes. The users can then use the data to understand the particle size distribution. Users find this method reliable and accurate. It is normally applied in industries like pharmaceuticals and food processing.

Laser diffraction analyzers

Compared to sieving, laser diffraction provides a quicker analysis of particle size. This is especially true if the powder being analyzed is in suspension. It uses the principle of light scattering, which states that when a laser beam passes through a medium that contains particles, the light will scatter. The degree of scattering will depend on the size of the particles interacting with the beam of light. The big particles will scatter the light more than the small ones. Conversely, the small particles will scatter less of the light. Photodetectors positioned around the laser capture the scattered light. Software will then compare the patterns of the scattered light with a predefined particle size database. This technique is preferred in industries like chemicals and materials science.

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyzers

This type of particle size analyzer is mostly used in nanomaterials measurement. This is because it is a powerful method that accurately measures particles in the micrometer range or smaller. This method uses a laser that is directed toward a suspension containing the particles to be analyzed. The medium within the suspension will naturally Brownian motion the particles. As the particles move, they interact and cause the light to scatter. Photodetectors positioned around the apparatus will capture the patterns of the scattered light. Software will be used to analyze the data and ultimately provide the user with the average particle size based on the unique Brownian motion of each particle.

Microscopy-based analyzers

Some powder particle size analyzers use microscopy for measurement. They offer a visual and highly accurate method for determining particle size. They do this by taking high-magnification pictures of the powder samples. These images are then analyzed using detection software. The software will automatically measure the key size dimensions of the visible particles. It does this using metrics like aspect ratio and circularity. Many industrial sectors prefer this method due to the visual quality control it enables in the powders. These sectors include the pharmaceutical industry and material coatings.

Durability and Materials

It is paramount for the buyers to have a concrete understanding of the durability and material composition of the powder particle size analyzers they choose.

Measurement sieves

Measurement sieves are traditionally made of stainless steel. In particular, remesh sieves are renowned for their robust construction and long-lasting features as well as efficiency in their operation. The stainless steel construction protects sieves from rust and wear in hostile environments. Users also indicate that sieves with electroformed wire mesh are particularly durable and accurate. These sieves can withstand siection without losing their distinctive measurable ranges. Normal use in this type of industry application can lead sie to last for years. However, exposure to excessive heat or aggressive chemical cleaning may degrade the structure. Under proper maintenance conditions, the sieves have a very long usage time. This makes them very ideal for consistent powder particle size analysis.

Sieve shakers

Most mechanical and electromagnetic sieve shakers are made from sturdy materials like aluminum or industrial-grade plastics. The material choice is meant to enable a lightweight yet strong construction that can endure continuous operation and vibration. The premium quality shakers will have a body made of anodized aluminum for increased durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is in this layer of aluminum that users will also find that the shaker's accuracy and performance level gets significantly improved. The impact of chemicals on the shaker body will depend on the specific materials used in construction. Electrical components are usually housed in protective casings to prevent moisture and dust ingress. If used properly, an electromagnetic shaker can serve for years. Meanwhile, mechanical shakers used in the field might need more regular servicing due to wear from mechanical components.

Laser diffraction analyzers

On the other hand, laser diffraction analyzers have fragile components. These components include laser diodes and optics. Since these parts are fragile, they are mounted into rugged housing that protects them from dust, vibrations, and other environmental pollutants. Typically, the outer casing is composed of industrial-grade plastics or metals that prevent shocks and offer robust protection for the internal components. While laser diodes are long-lasting, their exposure to certain environments can cause overheating or reduced efficiency. To mitigate this, many analyzers incorporate cooling systems or protective enclosures. Users also have to protect the optical components. Failure to do this may cause a reduction in accuracy due to dust or damage. Therefore, although these devices have delicate elements, their design ensures they remain durable for extensive industrial use.

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyzers

In comparison, DLS analyzers are also built to withstand industrial demands. However, the elements that comprise them are similarly delicate. This makes them more sensitive in contrast to laser diffraction analyzers. DLS instruments mainly consist of laser diodes and highly sensitive detectors. Here, elements are housed in protective enclosures that inhibit dust and environmental pollutants from invading the device. Though the lasers can last for a while, poor working conditions can lead to degradation or failure. To avoid this, protective filters, as well as proper ventilation, are incorporated into the design. Furthermore, high-quality DLS analyzers come equipped with calibration standards. These enable maintenance checks that will guarantee long-term durability and precise measurements.

Microscopy-based analyzers

They also have a robust build. However, the analysts are fragile. The key components of particle size microscopy include high-resolution cameras and optical lenses. Often, these parts are incorporated into durable tabletop units that can serve in production lines and laboratories without subjecting themselves to risk of incorrectly functioning. However, exposure to chemicals, dust, or even manual mishandling is notorious for damaging the optical components. The good part though is that some advanced models come with protective lens covers and shields. These aids have been proven to increase their shelf life. In particular, microscopic-based analyzers are designed for consistent use. Therefore, proper care will easily ensure their effective functioning for several years. Thus, the durability of these devices mainly relies on the environmental conditions and handling practices observed during the analysis.

Commercial use

Powder particle size analyzers serve in countless industrial applications. The common denominator of all these industries is that they require precise measurements of powder particle size distribution. The pharmaceuticals predominantly utilize sieve shakers and laser diffraction to maintain the correct formulation. Remember, even a slight variation in particle size can lead to inconsistency in drug efficacy. In the food and beverage industry, these analyzers help in quality control enabling companies to ensure their powders, like spices and powdered milk, have the appropriate texture and dissolution rates. This control improves product safety and consumer satisfaction.

Chemical manufacturers, relying on laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering, measure the size of catalysts and pigments. This measurement ensures optimal performance in reactions and product quality. Furthermore, the mining and mineral industries extensively use microscopy and DLS for analyzing metallurgical powders and minerals. This analysis aids in the separation processes and efficiency of end products. Lastly, the semiconductor industry depends on microscopy-based analyses to inspect materials for thin-film deposition.

These cases show how the analyzers play a critical role in quality assurance across industries that deal with powders. The impact they have on their users’ operational efficiency and product quality makes the demand for these tools rise consistently with time.

How to Choose

Choosing the ideal powder particle size analyzer for wholesale demands requires considering significant factors such as measurement needs. These needs arise from the users’ industry or the typical samples they analyze. The buyers should make sure they know the range of particle sizes they need to measure. Normally, laser diffraction can handle broader ranges than traditional sieving methods. However, if the user is dealing with nanomaterials, DLS is more appropriate. Laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering are suited for high-throughput analysis. On the other hand, microscopy and sieving give more detail but are slower.

The buyers should also consider the accuracy requirements of their potential consumer. If their potential users require very fine precision, they should go for analytics with high-resolution capabilities. This feature is especially essential when dealing with pharmaceutical or nanomaterial samples. In cases where industry demands are not that high in precision, particle size analyzers can efficiently perform laser diffractometers and sieve shakers.

Also, advise buyers to take note of the user-friendliness of the particle size analyzers. Some modern devices have software that simplifies data analysis and reporting. This feature can be a huge benefit to the customers since it will help them save time. Moreover, recommend to the buyers to consider the particle size analyzer’s ability to handle different powders. It will be quite advantageous for their customers to have versatile equipment. In this case, flexibility will enable the analyzers to adapt to various powder types without losing effectiveness. In addition, the customers' support is crucial to avoid possible challenges of operating these analyzers. Lastly, the buyers should consider the manufacturers’ warranties and service agreements. These agreements assure how long the device will remain functional and in great condition since they will cover the maintenance fees.

Q&A

Q. Can the powder particle size analyzer handle a variety of powders?

A. Yes, particle size analyzers can analyze a range of powders.

Q. Are there new types of particle size analyzers entering the market?

A. The traditional particle analyzers are more versatile than ever before. They have advanced features that enable the analysis of various powders.

Q. How does a laser diffraction particle size analyzer work?

A. Powder particle size analyzers use laser light to measure the angle at which the light scatters in relation to the distance at which the light is detected. The basic principle behind laser diffraction is that as particles increase in size, they will scatter more than when they are small.

Q. What type of maintenance do the particle size analyzers require?

A. Particle size analyzers do not require any special maintenance.

Q. How do the dynamics light scattering analyzers measure particles?

A. Dynamic light scattering measures the Brownian motion of particles dispersed in a fluid.

Q. Which industries benefit the most from these analyzers?

A. The pharmaceutical industry primarily benefits from these particle size analyzers. Other industries such as mining and semiconductor manufacturers also derive great benefits from these analyzers.