International Innovative Technologies (IIT), Gateshead, UK,-is working in partnership with Malvern Instruments to incorporate new in-line particle size distribution analysis systems in its specialist low-energy milling equipment.

IIT specializes in the design and manufacture of a new patented powder milling technology and associated classification equipment. Installation of a Malvern Insitec in-line particle size analyzer as part of the system will enable real-time optimization of particle size distribution in the milled material, accelerating the development of powder milling and processing solutions that combine excellent product quality with low power consumption.
 
Commenting on the decision to partner with Malvern, Dave Dixon, technical sales manager at IIT, said, “We already have a Malvern Mastersizer 2000 for off-line particle size analysis and it’s worked reliably for years. When we decided to explore the potential of real-time process size and distribution measurement, Malvern was the obvious choice because of our existing relationship and positive experience of the company. Their expertise in this area will be invaluable in helping us to fully exploit on-line analysis to deliver even better milling solutions, faster.”

IIT is typically approached by customers targeting a well-defined particle size distribution specification, especially for products such as abrasives, where particle size directly influences product performance. Currently engineers develop a solution with reference to off-line data. A short trial is conducted, samples are taken and analyzed, and the results are used to modify process settings. Real-time particle size analysis will greatly accelerate this optimization step.

Commenting on the news on behalf of Malvern, Rob Norris, business manager, process systems, said, “For us it’s essential to really understand the challenges faced by our customers when optimizing milling to cut energy consumption. Working closely with IIT on the development of new milling solutions will help us do this. It will also give us the opportunity to show customers what real-time analysis can deliver by providing access to a facility for education, demonstrations and trials.”

For more information, visit www.malvern.com.