Malvern Instruments exhibits particle characterization systems for coatings applications

Citation

(2003), "Malvern Instruments exhibits particle characterization systems for coatings applications", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 32 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2003.12932cad.005

Malvern Instruments exhibits particle characterization systems for coatings applications

Malvern Instruments exhibits particle characterization systems for coatings applications

Keywords: Coatings, Particles

Particle size and shape govern many key properties that are important to the coatings industry. At this year's European Coatings Show (8-10 April 2003; Nürnberg, Germany), Malvern Instruments exhibited the Insitec in-process particle size analyzer; the Mastersizer 2000 for laboratory-based particle size analysis; and the FPIA-2100 for the simultaneous measurement of particle size and shape.

Insitec on-line particle size analyzer

Malvern Insitec on-line particle size analyzers use industry-standard laser diffraction technology, specifically engineered into a rugged on-line measurement platform intended for process use. For demanding applications such as powder coatings, the Insitec T features triclamping and the use of 316L stainless steel in the manufacture of all metal parts (Plates 3 and 4). The flow path is simple to clean and the sample path and optical head are easily assembled and disassembled without using tools. Regular surfaces with a high finish prevent powder build-up in the sample path and purging keeps windows free from dust, minimising routine maintenance. As with all Insitec systems, the dry powder flow cell technology enables customized application of particle sizing to dry processes, allowing measurement of particles in the range 0.5-1,000 micron.

Plate 3 Malvern Insitec T

Plate 4 Malvern Insitec T

Mastersizer 2000

The Mastersizer 2000, with its ability to measure particle size in the range 0.02-2,000 micron and to easily handle both wet and dry sample dispersions, has broad application throughout the coatings industry (Plates 5 and 6). Featuring a systems approach to sample dispersion, instrument control and measurement, the Mastersizer 2000 offers full automation and standard operating procedure (SOP) driven operation, dramatically reducing the need for user intervention. Not only does this remove a major source of measurement variability, it also makes the system especially easy touse – often requiring no more than single button operation.

Plate 5 FPIA-2100

Plate 6 Mastersizer 2000 with autosampler

FPIA-2100

Malvern's FPIA-2100 enables the reliable, repeatable and routine characterization of particle size and shape using automated imaging techniques. Particle shape information, which provides an additional parameter to understand the source of manufacturing variations, is generated from the analysis of a large number of particles. Displays of size and shape data are supported by a selection of images to provide further visual understanding of the measurement data.

For further information contact: Trish Appleton, Kapler Communications. Tel: +44 (0) 1480 471117; Fax: +44 (0) 1480 471118; E-mail: trish@kapleronline.com

Please send sales enquiries to: Alison Vines, Malvern Instruments Ltd, Enigma Business Park, Grovewood Road, Malvern, Worcestershire UK, WR14 1XZ. Tel: +44(0) 1684 892456; Fax: +44 (0) 1684 892789; E-mail: alison.vines@malvern.co.uk

USA contact: Marisa Fraser, Malvern Instruments Inc. 10 Southville Road, Southborough, MA 01772, USA. Tel: +1 508 480 0200; Fax: +1 508 460 9692; E-mail: marisa.fraser@malvernusa.com