Sieve shakers are machines used to automate the process of particle separation and distribution according to size, primarily for quality assurance and control in various industries including food, medicine, and mining. They offer a more accurate, consistent, and time-efficient alternative to manual sieving methods.
Functionality and Types of Sieve Shakers: Sieve shakers operate by passing particles through a series of mesh filters in specified chambers, followed by agitation to ensure thorough separation. The two main types of sieve shakers are:
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Throw-action Sieve Shakers (Vibratory Sieve Shakers):
- These machines use an electromagnetic drive to set a spring-mass system in motion, transferring oscillations to the sieve stack. The sample undergoes a three-dimensional movement, ensuring uniform distribution across the sieve area. The amplitude of the movement can be adjusted, and modern models like the AS 200 control and AS 300 control from Retsch allow digital setting of the amplitude. These machines are equipped with a built-in measuring system and control unit that continuously compares the set and actual amplitude values, ensuring reproducible sieving parameters.
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Horizontal Sieve Shakers:
- These shakers move the sieves in horizontal circles, which is particularly effective for needle-shaped, flat, long, or fibrous samples. The horizontal orientation minimizes mesh blockage by disoriented particles. The AS 400 control, for example, can handle test sieves up to 400 mm in diameter, making it suitable for sieving large quantities of samples, such as those encountered in the analysis of construction materials and aggregates.
Applications and Considerations: Sieve shakers are essential for particle size analysis across a wide range of industries. They are suitable for analyzing materials from coarse to fine (down to 150 µm) and can also be used for wet sieve analysis, provided the material is not adversely affected by the liquid. The choice of sieve shaker depends on the size and characteristics of the sample to be separated. Proper handling and maintenance are crucial to prevent sieves from becoming clogged or distorted.
In summary, sieve shakers are vital tools for ensuring the quality and consistency of products in various industries by accurately separating and sizing particles. The selection of the appropriate sieve shaker is determined by the specific needs of the sample and the desired level of precision in the sieving process.
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