Wet sieve shaker

Types of wet sieve shakers

The wet sieve shaker, also called a soil sieve shaking machine, is a machine that helps divide and classify solid samples according to their particle sizes. It is one of the most popular sieve shakers used in soil and geological particle distribution analysis.

Generally, sieve shakers can be classified according to the operating principle and application into electric vibrating sieve shakers, ultrasonic sieve shaker machines, and wet sieve shakers.

• Wet sieve shaker

  A wet sieve shaker uses water for wet sieving in particle size analysis. Some models integrate a recoiling system, and others may have a drip pan for water collection and reprocessing. The wet sieve shaker can sieve materials like dry soils, damp soils, aggregates, refractory materials, and any powders that may require the addition of water or liquids to facilitate sieving and process some fine materials that would otherwise clog the sieve.

• Ultrasonic sieve shaker

  The shaker uses an ultrasonic transducer to produce vibrations at a high frequency. An inflow of air into the hopper and a pulsating action from the transducer move materials downward, preventing the clogging of mesh screens. The function of the transducer is to make the sieve shaker work better, and some models have a digital timer that allows the shaker to work for up to two hours continuously.

• Vibrating sieve shaker

  An electric vibrating sieve shaker has an electric motor that drives an eccentric mechanism to produce vibrations and move materials across the sieve. The vibration levels on the device can often be adjusted to sieve different materials and achieve various particle sizes.

Specifications and maintenance of the wet sieve shaker

Specifications

• Capacity: It can analyze samples of varying sizes, commonly from 100ml to 5000ml.
• Frequency: The wet sieve shaker's vibration frequency, which is the number of times it shakes each minute, is usually between 400-600. It is sometimes adjustable depending on the model, the sample being sieved, and the desired separation results.
• Sampling aperture/sec range: The wet sieve shaker has different sieve aperture and mesh sizes for varying sample types and analysis needs. Sampling aperture sizes typically range from 0.0010 inches (0.025mm) to 0.5 inches (12.7mm). Sampling mesh apertures range from 2 mesh to 100 mesh, depending on the specific application. The sampling aperture and mesh sizes affect the wet sieve shaker's ability to separate particles of different sizes.
• Power: The power of a wet sieve shaker is typically expressed in watts or horsepower. It commonly ranges from 0.25 to 2 horsepower or from 186 to 1492 watts.
• The wet sieve shaker's overall dimensions: It includes length, width, height, and weight.

Maintenance

The wet sieve shaker requires regular maintenance for optimal performance and long lifespan. Here are some of the maintenance tips:

• Always clean the sieve shaker before and after use. It prevents sample contamination and maintains the integrity of the sieve shaker.
• Check for loose or damaged parts and repair or replace them as necessary. It is crucial for the reliable operation of the sieve shaker.
• Lubricate moving parts like bearings and shafts with high-quality lubricants periodically. It minimizes wear and tear and prolongs the lifespan of the sieve shaker.
• Calibrate the wet sieve shaker regularly to maintain accuracy and consistent results. Also, ensure that the electrical connections are secure and insulated to prevent electrical faults.
• Store the wet sieve shaker in a clean and dry environment away from direct sunlight and moisture when not in use.

Scenarios of a wet sieve shaker

Industrial wet sieve shakers can be used in various industries and applications where particle size distribution analysis and control are critical. Here are some common use scenarios for industrial wet sieve shakers.

Environmental monitoring and testing departments use wet sieve shakers to analyze soil samples, sediment samples, and particle filtering to monitor water quality and identify pollution sources. In hydraulic engineering and geotechnical engineering, wet sieve shakers are used for soil particle size analysis, soil classification, and identification of soil permeability properties. This information is crucial for foundation design, slope stability analysis, and drainage system design.

In material processing and mining, wet sieve shakers are used for mineral particle size analysis, ore classification, and material sizing. This helps optimize mineral recovery processes, select appropriate beneficiation methods, and improve overall process efficiency.

Wet sieve shakers are used in the hydrology and geomorphology field to analyze particle size distribution of sediments in rivers, lakes, and coastal environments. The data obtained from wet sieve shakers can be used to study sediment transport, land erosion, and hydrological processes.

Quality control and assurance departments in various industries utilize wet sieve shakers for product testing and analysis. They perform sieve analyses to ensure compliance with specifications, identify product characteristics, and detect variations in particle size distribution. This is particularly important in industries such as construction, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, among others.

How to choose wet sieve shakers

• Purpose and application:

  Select the appropriate shaker based on the analysis goal, sample type, and particle size range. To avoid unexpected results, please ensure that the shaker can handle the specific sample material.

• Sieve compatibility:

  Check whether the shaker can be fitted with different sieves, such as those made from nylon, epoxy, or stainless steel. Make sure that the sieve's diameter and sieve mesh meet the test requirements.

• Water supply system:

  If the wet shaker has a built-in water supply system, evaluate its flow rate and pressure. This will ensure that it meets the test's requirements.

• Control system:

  Modern wet sieve shakers are usually fitted with digital control systems that allow parameters to be set precisely. When choosing a shaker, please consider its control system and whether it is easy to operate and take.

• Safety features:

  Examine any safety features that the shaker provides, such as emergency stop switches and protective covers. Safety precautions should be taken when operating the shaker to avoid potential hazards.

• Maintenance and cleanliness:

  When selecting the sieve shaker, consider its maintenance and cleaning process. Choose a shaker that allows for quick maintenance and cleaning so that it can maintain its performance and accuracy over the long term.

Wet sieve shaker FAQ

Q1: How is a wet sieve shaker different from a dry sieve shaker?

A1: The fundamental difference between the two is the particle dispersion method. While the wet sieve shaker uses water or another liquid to separate and sieve particles, the latter relies on air vibration to separate dry particles.

Q2: Can all materials be sieved using a wet sieve shaker?

A2: No, not all materials can be sieved using wet sieving. Materials that can change their chemical composition, behaviour, or physical properties, such as clogging, swelling, or dissolving, are unsuitable for wet sieve analysis. Additionally, excessively toxic, heavy, or hazardous materials that should not be introduced to a liquid suspension are also unsuitable. Moreover, materials which particulate shape may damage, fines, and undesirable may clog and filter e.g. certain ceramics, glass products, and composite materials are also unsuitable. Finally, sieves mesh openings may limit incompatible materials. Hence, sieve shakers are unsuitable for them.

Q3: How much sound does a wet sieve shaker produce?

A3: The shaker's sound, measured in decibels, depends on various factors. They include the machine's design and build quality, the shaker's operating speed and frequency, the material being sieved, and whether the shaker is wet or vibratory. Wet shakers are generally quieter than vibratory ones.

Q4: Can a wet sieve shaker be used for particle size analysis in the food industry?

A4: Yes, but to be compliant with food safety standards. Wet sieve shakers are commonly used in the food industry for particle size analysis. They can determine the sizing of raw materials, including grains, spices, powders, and other food processing components. This helps to ensure quality control, product development, and processing optimization.

Q5: Is there a standard method for wet sieving in particle size analysis?

A5: Yes, several standard methods for wet sieving exist. They include the ISO 3310, BS EN 600, and ASTM E11 standards. They focus on specifying the requirements for test sieves for the determination of particle sizes.