Laser Diffraction (LD) – Dev

Microtrac AEROTRAC II Spray Particle and Spray Droplet Size Analyzer

Alex Kozlov — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 11:29:22 +0000

The AEROTRAC II is an analyzer for particle size distributions & concentration ratio analysis (calculated from transmitted laser light) for suspended particulates in air such as atomized droplets, powders, spray particles, mist and etc. AEROTRAC II can be used in a wide variety of fields, including droplets from injectors, nebulizers, insecticides, lotions, humidifiers, mist separators, powder paint and various powders.

ADVANTAGES

Wide range of applications
Measurement modes to support various applications
Key start (manual operation via keyboard)
Auto start (automatically starts when detecting scattered light from particulates)
Measurement start via external signal input
0.02msec～ Accurate particulate analysis at short measurement intervals
Provided with multiple scattering correction software as standard
The instrument can be set up in a limited space
Equipped with a semiconductor laser

FUNCTION PRINCIPLE: ANALYSIS OF TEMPORAL CHANGE OF SPRAY MIST

ACCESSORIES AND OPTIONS

Fixing jigs to support various types of sprays

Wet measurement using a batch cell

Dry measurement

MICROTRAC AEROTRAC II TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

AEROTRAC II can be used in a wide variety of fields, including droplets from injectors, nebulizers, insecticides, lotions, humidifiers, mist separators, powder paint and various powders.

pigments

lotions

powders

The post Microtrac AEROTRAC II Spray Particle and Spray Droplet Size Analyzer appeared first on Dev.

Microtrac BLUEWAVE Particle Size Analyzer

Alex Kozlov — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 18:30:11 +0000

Microtrac’s BLUEWAVE provides accurate, reliable, and repeatable particle size analysis for a diverse range of applications by utilizing the proven theory of Mie compensation for spherical particles and the proprietary principle of Modified Mie calculations for non-spherical particles. The BLUEWAVE is optimized for materials below 1 micron delivering unsurpassed resolution. The BLUEWAVE measures particle size from 0.01 to 2,800 µm. Microtrac has a tradition of delivering innovative solutions in particle size analysis through light scattering technology. The BLUEWAVE Laser Diffraction (LD) analyzer is a continuation of that tradition. Utilizing the patented tri-laser technology, the BLUEWAVE provides accurate, reliable and repeatable particle size information for applications ranging from research and development to production, process, and quality control. The BLUEWAVE complies with or exceeds ISO 13320-1 particle size analysis – light diffraction methods.

FUNCTION PRINCIPLE

The patented tri-laser system allows light scattering measurements to be made from the forward low angle region to almost the entire angular spectrum (0.2 to 165 degrees). It does so by a combination of three lasers and two detector arrays, all in fixed positions. The primary laser (on-axis) produces scatter from nearly on-axis to about 60 degrees, detected by a forward array and a high-angle array, both of which have logarithmic spacing of the detector segments. The second laser (off-axis) is positioned to produce scatter beyond the 60 degree level which is detected using the same detector arrays. The third laser (off-axis) is positioned to produce backscatter, again using the same detector arrays. This technique effectively multiplies the number of sensors that are available for detection of scattered light.

The calculation of the particle size distribution can be done with Fraunhofer or Mie calculation. Microtrac was the first on the market to introduce a special calculation mode to respect irregular shape instead of spherical particles. This algorithm has been further refined for transparent, absorbing and reflecting particles. The BLUEWAVE is fitted with a sample circuit system (Sample dispersion controller) with short paths from dispersion unit to measurement cell to optimize sample flow. The speed of the centrifugal pump can be adjusted according to the viscosity or sedimentation properties of the sample. An ultrasonic tip is integrated and can be regulated by the software. All parameters important to homogenization and dispersion are thus highly controllable. All parts that come into contact with the sample are made from resistant materials like quartz glass, Teflon, stainless steel or Kalrex (chemical compatibility class I). A second integrated pump allows for automatic filling and cleaning.

FEATURES

Tri–laser, blue / red, multi-detector, multi-angle optical system
True blue lasers (not LEDs)
Algorithms that utilize Mie compensation and Modified Mie calculations for spherical and non-spherical materials
Measurement capability from 0.01 to 2,800 µm
Wet and dry measurements
Enclosed optical path ensures complete protection of the optical components leading to little or no operator intervention

ADVANTAGES

Utilizing blue lasers, the resolution of the low-end measurements increases to dramatically improve the accuracy of measurements below one micron

Proprietary Modified Mie calculations allow users to accurately measure non-spherical particles that other particle analyzers struggle to accurately characterize

Seamless transition from wet to dry measurement reduces down-time

Fixed detectors provide rugged durability and assure proper positioning

Small bench footprint reduces demand on valuable laboratory space

VERSIONS AND ACCESSORIES

CAPABLE OF DELIVERING SUSPENSIONS TO MICROTRAC PARTICLE SIZE ANALYZERS

SAMPLE DELIVERY CONTROLLER (SDC)

The Sample Delivery Controller (SDC) works in conjunction with the Microtrac S3500 and Bluewave laser diffraction systems. The SDC is fully automated and is designed to deliver a well-dispersed sample quickly and accurately.

FEATURES

Dispersion vessel constructed of surgical-grade stainless steel
Compatible with organic or inorganic samples
Integrated ultrasonic probe for sample dispersion
Vessel features natural turbulence to ensure sample is dispersed at all times
Self-cleaning mechanism

ADVANTAGES

Rugged surgical steel construction protects the instrument from corrosion
High compatibility with samples allows for organizations to have multiple purposes for the instrument
Ultrasonic power and duration is programmable

DRY POWDER DISPERSION DEVICE COMBINED WITH LASER DIFFRACTION SYSTEMS

TURBOTRAC

TURBOTRAC’s primary function is to deliver a properly dispersed sample to the measuring cell in the Microtrac optical bench allowing for consistent and repeatable particle size analysis of dry powders.

FEATURES

Flexibility of compressed air and flow conditions settings
Small sample volumes
Rapid measurements
Automatic sampling
Repeatability
Data consistency

ADVANTAGES

Allows the user to achieve dispersion usually associated with fluid dispersal systems for highly agglomerated materials such as alumina. Dispersion conditions can be altered for the measurement of the most fragile crystals
Sample volumes can be as small as 0.1 ml. Ideal for applications when sample is expensive to produce/ produced in small volumes
Measurement time is typically 10 seconds with the Turbotrac Autoscan – even shorter using the Microtrac One-Shot accessory for very small sample volumes
Microtrac FLEX software facilitates easy programming of measurement cycles. Simply place the sample in the sample tray, enter identifiers and press RUN. Data is saved
Data is comparable to fluid dispersions in most cases
Consistent control of aspiration settings deliver excellent sample-to-sample and bench-to-bench repeatability

CIRCULATION DEVICE MADE FOR SMALL, HIGH VALUE MATERIALS AND FOR DISPERSING MATERIALS IN EXPENSIVE FLUIDS: USVR

The Microtrac Ultra Small Volume Recirculator (USVR) works in conjunction with the S3500 or Bluewave laser diffraction systems.

FEATURES

35 to 50 ml recirculation volume
Vessel constructed out of surgical-grade stainless steel
Variable speed centrifugal pump
Compatible with most organic and inorganic solvents
Manual fill and drain valve

ADVANTAGES

Small sample volume allows users to save lab resources by requiring minuscule sample amounts during particle analysis
Rugged surgical grade stainless steel construction protects the instrument from corrosion when using organic and inorganic solvents
Engineered for quick and easy operation
Easily interchangeable with other Microtrac sampling instruments – decreases production / process downtime

MS30 AUTOSAMPLER: AUTOMATE YOUR SAMPLE HANDLING

Automate your sample-handling tasks
Increase your laboratory productivity
Ensure sample integrity
Tap and rinse function
Variable sample volume up to 2.5ml

TECHNICAL DATA

Number of Samples:	30
Sample Volume:	Up to 2.5 ml wet or dry
Electrical:	100-240vac / 47-62hz
Power Consumption:	300 W max.
Enviromental:	Temperature: 5 – 40°C, Humidity: 90% RH, non-condensing maximum, Pollution Degree 2
Physical Specifications:	All external parts are constructed of stainless steel or painted with acid-resistant polyurethane paint for corrosion protection
Dimensions:	16W x 14.25D x 12.5H in (406 x 361 x 318 mm)
Weight:	38 lbs. (17.2 kg)

MICROTRAC S3500 TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

Used in various fields such as: beverages, biotechnology, chemicals, food, geology / mining, medicine / pharmaceuticals, metal powders, metals, pigments, polymers, powder coatings, etc.

chemicals

battery materials

powders

The post Microtrac BLUEWAVE Particle Size Analyzer appeared first on Dev.

Microtrac S3500 Particle Size Analyzer

Alex Kozlov — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 15:20:46 +0000

The Microtrac S3500 is a industry-preferred Laser Diffraction (LD) analyzer, ideally suited for various particle characterization tasks. It is the first particle size analyzer that uses three precisely placed red laser diodes to accurately characterize particles like never before. The patented Tri-Laser System provides accurate, reliable and repeatable particle size analysis for a diverse range of applications by utilizing the proven theory of Mie compensation for spherical particles and the proprietary principle of Modified Mie calculations for non-spherical particles. The S3500 measures particle size from 0.02 to 2,800 µm.

FEATURES

Tri–laser, red, multi-detector, multi-angle optical system
Algorithms that utilize Mie compensation and Modified Mie calculations for non-spherical particles
Measurement capability from 0.02 to 2,800 µm
Wet and dry measurements
Enclosed optical path ensures complete protection of the optical components leading to little or no operator intervention

ADVANTAGES

Utilizing three red lasers, increases the range of measurement, giving you the flexibility to conduct analysis on a wide range of samples
Proprietary Modified Mie calculations allow users to accurately measure complex particles that other particle analyzer struggle to accurately characterize
Seamless transition from wet to dry measurement reduces down time
Fixed detectors provide rugged durability and assure proper positioning
Small bench footprint reduces demand on valuable laboratory space

VERSIONS AND ACCESSORIES

CAPABLE OF DELIVERING SUSPENSIONS TO MICROTRAC PARTICLE SIZE ANALYZERS

SAMPLE DELIVERY CONTROLLER (SDC)

FEATURES

Dispersion vessel constructed of surgical-grade stainless steel
Compatible with organic or inorganic samples
Integrated ultrasonic probe for sample dispersion
Vessel features natural turbulence to ensure sample is dispersed at all times
Self-cleaning mechanism

ADVANTAGES

Rugged surgical steel construction protects the instrument from corrosion
High compatibility with samples allows for organizations to have multiple purposes for the instrument
Ultrasonic power and duration is programmable

DRY POWDER DISPERSION DEVICE COMBINED WITH LASER DIFFRACTION SYSTEMS

TURBOTRAC

FEATURES

Flexibility of compressed air and flow conditions settings
Small sample volumes
Rapid measurements
Automatic sampling
Repeatability
Data consistency

ADVANTAGES

Allows the user to achieve dispersion usually associated with fluid dispersal systems for highly agglomerated materials such as alumina. Dispersion conditions can be altered for the measurement of the most fragile crystals
Sample volumes can be as small as 0.1 ml. Ideal for applications when sample is expensive to produce/ produced in small volumes
Measurement time is typically 10 seconds with the Turbotrac Autoscan – even shorter using the Microtrac One-Shot accessory for very small sample volumes
Microtrac FLEX software facilitates easy programming of measurement cycles. Simply place the sample in the sample tray, enter identifiers and press RUN. Data is saved
Data is comparable to fluid dispersions in most cases
Consistent control of aspiration settings deliver excellent sample-to-sample and bench-to-bench repeatability

CIRCULATION DEVICE MADE FOR SMALL, HIGH VALUE MATERIALS AND FOR DISPERSING MATERIALS IN EXPENSIVE FLUIDS: USVR

The Microtrac Ultra Small Volume Recirculator (USVR) works in conjunction with the S3500 or Bluewave laser diffraction systems.

FEATURES

35 to 50 ml recirculation volume
Vessel constructed out of surgical-grade stainless steel
Variable speed centrifugal pump
Compatible with most organic and inorganic solvents
Manual fill and drain valve

ADVANTAGES

Small sample volume allows users to save lab resources by requiring minuscule sample amounts during particle analysis
Rugged surgical grade stainless steel construction protects the instrument from corrosion when using organic and inorganic solvents
Engineered for quick and easy operation
Easily interchangeable with other Microtrac sampling instruments – decreases production / process downtime

MS30 AUTOSAMPLER: AUTOMATE YOUR SAMPLE HANDLING

Automate your sample-handling tasks
Increase your laboratory productivity
Ensure sample integrity
Tap and rinse function
Variable sample volume up to 2.5ml

TECHNICAL DATA

Number of Samples:	30
Sample Volume:	Up to 2.5 ml wet or dry
Electrical:	100-240vac / 47-62hz
Power Consumption:	300 W max.
Enviromental:	Temperature: 5 – 40°C, Humidity: 90% RH, non-condensing maximum, Pollution Degree 2
Physical Specifications:	All external parts are constructed of stainless steel or painted with acid-resistant polyurethane paint for corrosion protection
Dimensions:	16W x 14.25D x 12.5H in (406 x 361 x 318 mm)
Weight:	38 lbs. (17.2 kg)

MICROTRAC S3500 TYPICAL APPLICATIONS

Used in various fields such as: beverages, biotechnology, chemicals, food, medicine / pharmaceuticals, metal powders, metals, pigments, geology / metallurgy, etc.

chemicals

battery materials

powders

The post Microtrac S3500 Particle Size Analyzer appeared first on Dev.

Microtrac SYNC Particle Size and Shape Analyzer

Alex Kozlov — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 09:19:24 +0000

A New Dimension in Particle Analysis. With the SYNC particle analyzer, Microtrac integrates its highly accurate tri-laser diffraction analyzer technology with its versatile dynamic image analysis capability to provide particle characterization practitioners with a unique measuring experience. The patented synchronous measurement technology allows users to make both a laser diffraction measurement and an image analysis measurement on a single sample, in the same sample cell at the same time. The SYNC laser diffraction particle size analyzer is ideally suited for routine QC applications. It also provides valuable information to researchers as they develop new materials and processes. The powerful analyzer software provides both particle size distribution information as well as a multitude of morphological particle parameters. The patented BLEND routine allows users to examine materials over a wide range of sizes from 0.01 microns to 4000 microns.

PARTICLE SIZE AND SHAPE ANALYZER SYNC

Particle size and shape analysis from 0.01 to 4000 microns using laser diffraction (ISO 13320:2020) and dynamic image analysis (ISO 13322-2)
Excellent sub-micron detection using blue laser technology. Ability to resolve narrow and multi-modal distributions in the sub-micron range
Detection of small amounts of oversized or undersized fractions in the particle size distribution
Patented synchronous measurement technology and BLEND distribution analysis. One measurement run in the analyzer yields particle size distribution and over 30 morphological parameters
Fast measurement time – typically 30 seconds
Fast and easy switch between wet and dry measurement modules. Change from wet to dry mode in less than 15 seconds
Full IQ / OQ validation package compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 guidelines

LASER DIFFRACTION ANALYZER WITH THE PATENTED TRI-LASER SYSTEM

Particle size measurement by Laser Diffraction (LD) has become the most used technology in research and industry and is the de-facto standard for incoming and outgoing product quality control. During the measurement, the laser beam of the analyzer illuminates a well dispersed sample and the size distribution is calculated from the scattered light pattern. In Microtrac’s laser diffraction analyzer technology, this scattered light is measured at various angles from 0 to 165 degrees. This is achieved by using two detector arrays and three lasers that illuminate the sample from different angles. The SYNC particle analyzer may be equipped with all red lasers or a combination of red and blue lasers.

Small particles scatter light at large angles while large ones scatter light at small angles. The scattered light intensity is collected continuously throughout the measurement. In Microtrac laser diffraction analyzers the evaluation is done using Microtrac’s innovative modified Mie scattering theory. This algorithm produces accurate size distributions for both spherical and non-spherical particles as well as for both transparent and absorbing materials.

INTEGRATED DYNAMIC IMAGE ANALYSIS

The characterization of particulate systems, once dominated strictly by size measurements, is evolving. Dynamic Image Analysis DIA, which determines important parameters related to particle morphology, provides detailed information regarding the physical properties of materials. These key properties and the resulting manufactured product can change drastically with no significant differences reported in the Laser Diffraction size distribution. Image analysis can rapidly identify problems and significantly reduce troubleshooting time. Particles in a flowing stream, backlit by a high-speed strobe light, are photographed by a high-resolution digital camera to create a video file of images for the flowing particles.

More than 30 size and shape parameters are acquired for every particle. Although the measurement technology of DIA is straightforward, the data analysis used to identify and solve problems is very powerful. The analyzer software includes filter functions to search, display, and evaluate particles with specific properties or a combination of properties. Data can also be presented in scatter plots, in which each data point represents a single particle image.

COMBINING LASER DIFFRACTION WITH DYNAMIC IMAGE ANALYSIS

Microtrac’s SYNC provides traditional users of laser diffraction analyzers with exciting new capabilities to characterize their materials. The proven Tri-Laser technology provides accurate and repeatable laser diffraction results from light collected over 165 degrees of angular scatter. When combined with state of art camera technology capturing images of the particle stream at the same time, the SYNC analyzer offers not only size data from its laser diffraction system but significantly more information about the shape of the materials and the quality of the dispersion. Material is either dispersed in a carrier fluid for wet measurements in the FLOWSYNC or dispersed in air for dry powder measurements in the TURBOSYNC.

As the sample stream passes through a single measurement cell in the optical module of the analyzer, it is interrogated by the lasers. The stream is simultaneously illuminated by stroboscopic LED to allow the high-speed camera to take images of the same material. This allows users the flexibility to determine particle size distributions from an ensemble sample dispersion as well as the ability to examine single as well as groups of particles from the hundreds of thousands of images captured by the camera. The user ultimately has the ability to look individually at a laser diffraction or an image analysis, or at a combination of both using the patented BLEND feature. This combination provides QC users of the analyzer the ability to qualify their data using two methodologies at the same time and provides R&D users with a powerful tool to characterize new materials.

MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE BY DESIGN

Laser diffraction analyzer with the patented Tri-Laser design (red & blue lasers available)
Detector array covering 0 – 165 degrees
Stroboscopic light source and integrated camera for dynamic image analysis
Same bench & dispersion system for laser diffraction & image analysis
Wet and dry analysis, easy change
Small footprint

VERSIONS AND ACCESSORIES

FLOWSYNC & FLOWSYNC MINI

SAMPLE DISPERSION UNIT FOR WET MEASUREMENTS

The FLOWSYNC models’ automated filling, de-aerating, pre-circulating and circulating operation means that each sample is handled with a consistency that improves the repeatability of particle size distribution and imaging data. The FLOWSYNC has a volume of 200 ml and the FLOWSYNC MINI a volume 40 ml.

Consistency: Only the FLOWSYNC has an in-line ultrasonic probe with variable power. It disperses agglomerated materials to ensure consistent sample dispersion during measurements.

Versatility: Users can program, save and recall unlimited SOP routines for fill, disperse, measure, rinse and run commands.

Connectivity: An integrated fill pump allows the user to connect any water or solvent source. The recirculator fills, de-aerates and dilutes automatically.

Auto-Dispersion: The fluid dynamics of the FLOWSYNC / FLOWSYNC MINI feature a built-in turbulence to ensure that all particles are moving constantly within the system, negating the need for an external stirrer.

Resistiveness: The FLOWSYNC / FLOWSYNC MINI can be operated with a wide variety of carrier fluids. In addition to water and alcohol, this includes organic solvents like hexane or toluene.

Self-Cleaning: The washing feature ensures that the walls of the sample vessel are thoroughly cleaned during the rinse cycle. This eliminates cross contamination from one sample to the next.

TURBOSYNC

DISPERSION MODULE FOR DRY MEASUREMENTS

The TURBOSYNC delivers a properly dispersed sample to the measuring cell of the analyzer, allowing for consistent and repeatable analyses. A moving sample tray introduces the powder into the measurement system.

Flexibility: Compressed air and flow condition settings up to 50 psi (345 kPa) allow the operator to achieve optimal dispersion, even for highly agglomerated materials. Dispersion conditions can be fine-tuned for measurement of even the most fragile materials.

Small sample volumes: Volumes can be as small 0.1 cm³. This is ideal for applications where the material is expensive or produced in small volumes.

Large sample volumes: The removable tray can hold larger quantities of powder. If required, multiple trays can be processed and combined into one measurement record.

Automatic sampling: The Microtrac FLEX software facilitates the automation of measurement cycles. Simply place the sample in the tray and press RUN. All data is saved on the system PC or can be exported to user networks.

Rapid Measurements: Measurement time is usually 10 – 40 seconds, depending on the properties of the material.

Repeatability: Consistent control of aspiration settings deliver excellent sample-to-sample and instrument-to-instrument repeatability.

INTUITIVE USE WITH JUST A FEW CLICKS

DIMENSIONS LS FOR SYNC

The DIMENSIONS LS software comprises six clearly structured Workspaces for method development, operation of the SYNC instrument, result presentation and evaluation of several analyses. The Workspaces for result evaluation remain accessible during analysis.

Simple method development
Clearly structured result presentation
Various evaluation options
Intuitive workflow
Simple data export
Multi-user capability

MICROTRAC SYNC: OPTIMUM SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY INDUSTRY

Versatility is a great strength of laser diffraction analyzers. This makes the method suitable for a variety of applications in both research and industry. Microtrac laser diffraction particle analyzers are characterized by especially convenient, easy-to-learn operation. Thanks to their robust design, the instruments are practically maintenance-free and fit for 24/7 operation. The high sample throughput and the extremely wide measurement range from nanometers to millimeters are the reasons for the method’s popularity in so many laboratories. However, drawbacks of laser diffraction analyzers are poor resolution for large particles, limited sensitivity for oversize and the inability to measure particle shape. These downsides of laser diffraction, however are the strengths of image analysis. Thanks to the unique combination of both techniques, the SYNC particle analyzer provides information which is not available from laser diffraction alone and improves the overall accuracy of size measurement.

pigments

paints / pigments
ceramics
chemicals
industrial minerals
metal powders
construction materials
cosmetics

capsules

pharmaceuticals
glass / glass beads
coatings
food
3D printing
foodstuffs

metal powder

emulsions
polymers
battery materials

The post Microtrac SYNC Particle Size and Shape Analyzer appeared first on Dev.