Automated Particle Characterization System
Knowledge and understanding of particle shape and size is essential in the development and control of many industrial processes. The Morphologi G3 automated particle characterization system is an analytical tool that provides high-quality, statistically significant particle size and shape information. The unit builds on its G2 predecessor, incorporating a fully automated sample dispersion device and extending automation and options for visualization and data analysis. It provides microscope-quality images and delivers statistically significant data with little or no user intervention by rapidly analyzing hundreds of thousands of particles.
Malvern Instruments Inc., Southborough, MA 508-480-0200 www.malvern.com

Rotary Declumper
The Model 15X15-SS low-profile rotary declumper reduces agglomerates and friable materials that are discharged from processing equipment, storage vessels, and shipping containers. Material entering the 15-sq-in. inlet is reduced by dual rotors with three-point, single-piece stainless-steel breaking heads that rotate with minimum clearance inside a curved, perforated bedscreen. On-size material exits through apertures in the bedscreen, which ranges in diameter from 1/32 to 2½ in. Powered by a 3-hp motor with gear reducer and serpentine timing drive, the synchronized shafts rotate at approximately 100 rpm to avoid heating the product. Both the rotor assembly and the bedscreen can be removed rapidly for cleaning or replacement. At 11 in. high, the unit fits in restricted spaces between bulk storage, handling, processing, and packaging equipment. With optional feed hoppers and support structures, it can also operate independently.
Munson Machinery Company, Inc., Utica, NY 800-944-6644 www.munsonmachinery.com

Gravimetric Extrusion Control Software
A continuous gravimetric extrusion control software package can control extruder speed so that its output has a predictable and repeatable mass flow. By accurately measuring material throughput, gravimetric extrusion control can compensate for material and process variations, providing more consistent end-product quality. The software is used primarily with single-screw flood-fed extruders in both mono- and coextrusion applications such as profile-extrusion, cast-sheet, blown-film, cable-coating, and laminating applications. A typical extrusion control package may include the following components: a K4G feeding and blending station that accommodates up to six feeders with a variety of feeder types; a weigh hopper designed to fit neatly between the K4G stand and the extruder inlet; and three choices of user interface, depending on the needs of the application.
K-Tron Process Group, Pitman, NJ 856-589-0500 www.ktron.com

Noncontacting Moisture Analyzer
The CM710 industrial moisture gauge is the latest addition to the 710-series in-line analyzers used in industry. The new gauge has been developed to perform in the harsher industrial operating environments found in mineral, ceramic, ore, chemical, sintering, and similar processes. Mounted 250 mm above the product on the conveyor, the analyzer can measure products with different heights. It can even perform measurements on discontinuous product flows using an optional high-speed gating system. The system’s patented noncontacting near-infrared reflectance (backscatter) optics are designed for high accuracy and maximum long-term stability without ever requiring recalibration.
NDC Infrared Engineering, Irwindale, CA 626-960-3300 www.ndcinfrared.com

Laser-Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer
The LA-300 laser-diffraction particle size analyzer offers powerful measurement capabilities in a compact, portable package. With a 0.1–600-µm range, automatic alignment, fast analysis times, high resolution, powerful software, and ease of use, the unit is ideal for crowded labs. The small, portable system can be used for testing at various locations in a factory, or it can be shipped to different locations. This feature makes it suitable for a range of applications, including paper coating at a mill site or milk homogenization control. The unit uses the same software package as the full range LA-900-series analyzers, providing a wide range of data presentation and analysis tools.
Horiba Instruments Inc., Irvine, CA 949-250-4811 www.horibalab.com