The standard test sieves for ASTM, as specified in ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1, cover a range of opening sizes from 125mm to 20µm (5.0in to No.635). These sieves use woven-wire mesh as the primary separation medium and are classified into three levels of accuracy based on stringent tolerance factors.
Detailed Explanation:
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Sieve Specifications and Range:
- The ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1 standards define the specifications for test sieves, which are primarily used for particle size analysis. The sieves are designed to effectively sieve particles ranging from 150mm (6in) down to 5µm (0.0002in) using appropriate test methods.
- The conventional ASTM/ISO test sieves with woven-wire mesh have a specific range of opening sizes from 125mm to 20µm (5.0in to No.635). The selection of the appropriate sieve size for a particular sample is determined by industry-standard test methods or sometimes by the operator.
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Sieve Construction and Materials:
- The separation medium for most test sieves is either metal or synthetic woven wire mesh. Other mediums include perforated metal plates and electroformed mesh, which is a flat metallic sheet with precision openings.
- The construction of these sieves involves a woven mesh material, which can lead to variations in the weave. These variations can affect the reproducibility of test results between sieves, hence the need for stringent standards to maintain a level of uniformity.
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Classification and Verification:
- ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1 classify test sieves into three different levels of accuracy. The verification process involves a method that precisely measures a selected number of openings in the mesh surface and calculates the probability of their size ranges using statistical methods.
- This verification is typically done using an automated NIST traceable optical comparator that scans the sieve mesh and produces a complete statistical analysis following ASTM/ISO requirements.
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Certification and Compliance:
- In some industries, it is mandatory to have test sieves certified or calibrated to ensure they meet ISO and ASTM specifications. This process involves running the sieve through a machine that verifies the size of the openings and issuing a document that confirms compliance with the required specifications.
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Purpose and Acceptance of Sieving:
- Sieving is a standard method for measuring particle size in various industries including construction, chemicals, food, pharmaceuticals, and more. Although the process assumes each particle to be a perfect sphere, variations in shape are generally accepted due to the long-standing practice and development of specific test methods for different materials.
- ASTM's Manual 32 - Test Sieving Methods provides a comprehensive guide for test sieving methods and analysis procedures, further standardizing the practice across different industries.
In summary, ASTM test sieves are crucial for particle size analysis and are governed by detailed standards to ensure accuracy and reproducibility, despite inherent variations in sieve construction.
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