
Topics Covered
Background
Product Features
Key Features
Analyzing and
Comparing Data
Background
The new SediGraph™ III 5120 determines particle size by using the
highly accurate and reproducible sedimentation technique which measures the
gravity-induced settling rates of different size particles in a liquid with
known properties.

This is simple yet extremely effective technique for
providing particle size information for a wide variety of materials.
Product Features
Product features of the SediGraph™ III
5120:
- Measures particles ranging from 300 to 0.10 µm equivalent
spherical diameter
- Utilizes a modern pumping system that is silent, reliable, and
easy to maintain.
- A maintenance reminder, based on the number of analyses performed,
alerts you when it is time for routine maintenance
- Computer –controlled mixing chamber temperature improves
repeatability and reproducibility
- A highly versatile and interactive reporting system provides a
wide range of custom data presentation options including dynamic reformatting of
plots and cut-and-paste graphics and tables.
- Particle settling velocity is reported as graphical and tabular
data.
- Grain size can be reported in Phi units
- Provides SPC reporting and regression analyses.
- Runs up to 18 samples unattended using the MasterTech 052
Autosampler , which sits securely on top of the SediGraph to
conserve bench space.
- Completes most analyses in 15 minutes or less
Key Features
Key features of the SediGraph™ III
5120:
- Complete particle accountability assures that all of the
introduced sample is accounted for, including fractions below 0.1 µm
- Capability to merge data with that from other particle sizing
methods, thus extending the range of reported data to 125,000 µm (125 mm),
excellent for geological applications
- Scanning the sedimentation cell from bottom to top allows accurate
inventory of fast-settling particles while minimizing the time required to
resolve the separation of fine particles
- Fully automatic operation increases sample throughput and reduces
operator involvement in addition to reducing the opportunity for human error
- Temperature-controlled analyses assure that liquid properties
remain constant throughout the analysis so you can be confident of accurate and
reproducible results
- Multiple analysis speeds allow you to choose the desired
combination of speed and resolution that meets your needs
- Real-Time display allows you to monitor the cumulative mass plot
of the current analysis and to make immediate procedural changes if needed
- Statistical process control (SPC) reports track the performance of
your processes allowing immediate response to fluctuations
- Plot overlays provide a visual comparison of analysis results from
one or more analyses; a reference or baseline analysis, for example, or a
superposition of two different types of plots of the same analysis data
- Data comparison plots provide graphical displays of the
mathematical difference between two data sets (difference from reference plot)
or the extent of a data point value above or below a tolerance boundary (out of
specification plot)
- Multiple analyzer control allows two SediGraph III to be operated simultaneously from a single computer, conserving valuable lab
space and making data storage convenient
- Data Reporting Detailed analysis data for particles ranging from
300 to 0.1 µm are provided automatically by the SediGraph III.
Data collected from other particle size analyses ranging from 125,000 to 300 µm
can be combined with SediGraph data, enabling effective reporting for particles
ranging from 125,000 to 0.1 µm. That fraction finer than 0.1 µm is also
indicated. In addition to tabular data, different graphical analysis plot types
are available including:
- Cumulative Mass, Area, and Number
- Distribution of Sample Quantity as a Function of Settling Velocity
- Process Control Charts
- Log Probability
- Baseline/Full Scale References
- Frequency Distribution
- Difference From Reference
- Out of Specification
- Rosin-Rammler Plots
- Regression Analyses
Analyzing and Comparing Data
Plots can be overlaid for comparing the results from
different samples or for comparing different plot types from the same sample.
This allows you to compare analysis results to a standard. Plots can be rescaled
to give you the ability to scrutinize closely your graphical data.
A new column has been added to the tables and to the x-axis
selection in the graphs that reports size in Phi units, where Φ = -log2
(particle diameter in mm). Also, a column selection for settling velocity (cm/s)
is available for tables. The x-axis of plots can be scaled in particle size or
settling velocity. The SediGraph is the only automated particle sizing
instrument that directly measures settling velocity.
Source: Micromeritics
For more information on this source please visit Micromeritics
Instrument Corp.