Automated Particle Characterization System
Knowledge and understanding of particle shape and
size is essential in the development and control
of many industrial processes. The Morphologi G3
automated particle characterization system is an
analytical tool that provides high-quality, statisti-
cally significant particle size and shape informa-
tion. The unit builds on its G2 predecessor, in-
corporating a fully automated sample dispersion
device and extending automation and options
for visualization and data analysis. It provides
microscope-quality images and delivers sta-
tistically significant data with little or no user
intervention by rapidly analyzing hundreds of
thousands of particles.
Malvern Instruments Inc., Southborough, MA
508-480-0200 www.malvern.com
Rotary Declumper
The Model 15X15-SS low-profile rotary declumper reduces agglomerates and friable materials that are discharge d from processing equipment, storage vessels, and shipping containers.
Material entering the 15-sq-in. inlet is reduced by
dual rotors with three-point, single-piece
stainless-steel breaking heads that rotate with minimum clearance inside a
curved, perforated bedscreen. On-size
material exits through apertures in the
bedscreen, which ranges in diameter
from 1/32 to 2½ in. Powered by a 3-hp
motor with gear reducer and serpentine
timing drive, the synchronized shafts
rotate at approximately 100 rpm to avoid heating the product. Both the rotor assembly and the bedscreen can be removed rapidly for cleaning or replacement.
At 11 in. high, the unit fits in restricted spaces between bulk storage, handling, processing, and packaging equipment. With optional feed
hoppers and support structures, it can also operate independently.
Munson Machinery Company, Inc., Utica, NY 800-944-6644
www.munsonmachinery.com
Gravimetric Extrusion Control
Software
A continuous gravimetric extrusion control software package can control extruder
speed so that its output has a predictable
and repeatable mass flow. By accurately
measuring material throughput, gravimetric extrusion control can compensate for
material and process variations, providing
more consistent end-product quality. The
software is used primarily with single-screw flood-fed extruders in both mono-and coextrusion applications such as
profile-extrusion, cast-sheet, blown-film,
cable-coating, and laminating applications.
A typical extrusion control package may
include the following components: a K4G
feeding and blending station that accommodates up to six feeders with a variety
of feeder types; a weigh hopper designed
to fit neatly between the K4G stand and
the extruder inlet; and three choices of
user interface, depending on the needs
of the application.
K-Tron Process Group, Pitman, NJ
856-589-0500 www.ktron.com
Noncontacting Moisture Analyzer
The CM710 industrial moisture gauge is the latest
addition to the 710-series in-line analyzers used in
industry. The new gauge has been developed to
perform in the harsher industrial operating environments found in mineral, ceramic, ore, chemical,
sintering, and similar processes. Mounted 250 mm
above the product on the conveyor, the analyzer
can measure products with different heights. It
can even perform measurements on discontinuous
product flows using an optional high-speed gating
system. The system’s patented noncontacting near-infrared reflectance (backscatter) optics are designed for high accuracy and maximum long-term
stability without ever requiring recalibration.
NDC Infrared Engineering, Irwindale, CA
626-960-3300 www.ndcinfrared.com
Laser-Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer
The LA-300 laser-diffraction particle size analyzer offers powerful measurement capabilities in a compact, portable package.
With a 0.1–600-μm range, automatic alignment, fast analysis
times, high resolution, powerful software, and ease of use, the
unit is ideal for crowded labs. The small, portable system can
be used for testing at various locations in a factory, or it can be
shipped to different locations. This feature makes it suitable for
a range of applications, including paper coating at a mill site or
milk homogenization control. The unit uses the same software
package as the full range LA-900-series analyzers, providing a
wide range of data presentation and analysis tools.
Horiba Instruments Inc., Irvine, CA 949-250-4811
www.horibalab.com
