Tech Team · Kintek Solution

Laboratory sieve sizes are determined by two main factors: the diameter of the sieve frame and the mesh size (aperture size). The frame diameter typically ranges from 75mm (3 inches) to 600mm (24 inches), with common sizes being 75mm, 100mm, 200mm, 300mm, 400mm, and 500mm. The mesh size, which refers to the size of the openings in the sieve, ranges from 4mm (coarse) to 38 microns (fine), with specialized sieves going as fine as 5 microns. These sizes are standardized internationally, with variations depending on regional standards (e.g., U.S. vs. international). The choice of sieve size depends on the specific application and the particle size range being measured.

Key Points Explained:

1. Sieve Frame Diameter:

   • The diameter of the sieve frame is a critical dimension, as it determines the size of the sieve and its compatibility with testing equipment.
   • Common frame diameters include:
     • 75mm (3 inches)
     • 100mm
     • 200mm (8 inches)
     • 300mm (12 inches)
     • 400mm
     • 500mm (18 inches)
     • 600mm (24 inches)
   • These sizes are standardized, with 3 inches, 8 inches, and 12 inches being common in the U.S., and 100mm, 200mm, and 300mm being standard internationally.

2. Mesh Size (Aperture Size):

   • The mesh size refers to the size of the openings in the sieve, which determines the range of particle sizes that can pass through.
   • Mesh sizes range from:
     • Coarse sieves: 4mm (4 mesh, approximately 4.75mm)
     • Fine sieves: 38 microns (400 mesh, approximately 0.038mm)
     • Specialized sieves: As fine as 5 microns (electroforming sieves)
   • The mesh size is often expressed in terms of "mesh number," which indicates the number of openings per linear inch. For example, a 4 mesh sieve has 4 openings per inch, while a 500 mesh sieve has 500 openings per inch.

3. Types of Sieves Based on Mesh Construction:

   • Sieves are categorized into three main types based on how the mesh is constructed:
     • Wire Woven Mesh Sieves: These are the most common and are used for general-purpose particle size analysis. The screen size ranges from 0.02mm to 2.36mm.
     • Metal Perforated Plate Sieves: These sieves have larger openings and are used for coarse materials. The screen size ranges from 1mm to 125mm.
     • Electroforming Sieves: These are specialized sieves with very fine openings, used for ultra-fine particle analysis. The sieve size ranges from 5 microns to 500 microns.

4. Applications and Selection Criteria:

   • The choice of sieve size depends on the specific application and the particle size range being measured.
   • For example:
     • Coarse sieves (e.g., 4mm) are used for large particles, such as aggregates in construction materials.
     • Fine sieves (e.g., 38 microns) are used for powders and fine granular materials, such as pharmaceuticals or food products.
     • Specialized sieves (e.g., electroforming sieves) are used in research and quality control for extremely fine particles.

5. Regional Standards:

   • Sieve sizes and standards can vary by region. In the U.S., the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards are commonly followed, while internationally, ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standards are used.
   • For example, U.S. standard frame sizes are 3 inches, 8 inches, and 12 inches, while international standards are 100mm, 200mm, and 300mm.

6. Practical Considerations for Purchasers:

   • When purchasing laboratory sieves, consider:
     • The frame diameter and mesh size required for your specific application.
     • The type of sieve (wire woven, perforated plate, or electroforming) based on the material being tested.
     • Compliance with regional standards (e.g., ASTM or ISO) if required for your industry.
     • The durability and material of the sieve, especially if it will be used for abrasive or corrosive materials.

By understanding these key points, you can make an informed decision when selecting laboratory sieves for your specific needs.

Summary Table:

Factor	Details
Sieve Frame Diameter	75mm (3 inches) to 600mm (24 inches); common sizes: 75mm, 100mm, 200mm, 300mm, 400mm, 500mm.
Mesh Size	4mm (coarse) to 38 microns (fine); specialized sieves go as fine as 5 microns.
Types of Sieves	Wire Woven Mesh, Metal Perforated Plate, Electroforming Sieves.
Applications	Coarse sieves for aggregates, fine sieves for powders, specialized sieves for ultra-fine particles.
Regional Standards	U.S. (ASTM) vs. International (ISO) standards for sieve sizes.

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