CAMSIZER - Model XT -Particle Size and Shape Distribution Analysis

The design of the CAMSIZER XT is based on the well-proven dynamic image analysis system CAMSIZER but is optimized for finer samples (from 1 µm to 8 mm). Both improved optical resolution and new options for material feeding allow for an extended application range. A range of sample presentation devices feed the sample to the measurement zone and provide the desired dispersion energy in order to de-agglomerate the sample without breaking individual particles. The CAMSIZER XT offers the flexible X-Change system: the X-Fall module (free fall mode), which is the most gentle method for the material, the X-Jet module with adjustable pressure and variable nozzle geometry, and the X-Flow module in which particles are dispersed in liquids, optionally by ultrasound.

Industries and applications benefiting from size and shape analysis by the CAMSIZER XT include fine powders such as sand, abrasives, food, polymers, crushed glass, building materials, metal and ore powders, and pharmaceutical powders/granules. Measurement time is ~ 1 to 3 min depending on the desired measuring statistics. Reported result parameters include smallest diameter, length, mean diameter, aspect ratio, symmetry, sphericity, and convexity. Results can easily and accurately match historic results from other techniques (sieves, microscopy, diffraction) with the appropriate selection of result parameters and automated software features.

The CAMSIZER XT is manufactured by Retsch Technology GmbH and distributed in many parts of the world by HORIBA.

• Simultaneous analysis of particle size and shape
• Digital image processing with patented two-camera-system (acc. to ISO 13322-2)
• Wide dynamic measuring range from 1 μm to 8 mm
• Measuring narrow as well as very wide size distributions within one measurement and without any adjustments such as changing lenses, re-focusing, or re-calibration
• Measuring size range is 1 µm - 3 mm for the X-Jet module and 10 µm - 8 mm for the X-Fall module
• Newly developed optical system with ultra-strong LEDs for highest resolution and excellent depth of field for image sharpness
• Reliable detection of smallest amounts of “undersize” and “oversize”
• Very short measurement time of 1 – 3 minutes
• Modular system X-Change for dry and wet dispersion
• Measurement results are 100% compatible to sieve analysis if required
• Intuitive software
• Detailed particle size analysis - results are saved in more than 1,000 size classes
• Calibration in seconds
• Automatic measuring procedure
• Robust design, insensitive to dust and vibrations
• Self-cleaning, wear-free, maintenance-free
• Less time- and labor-intensive than sieve analysis or microscopy

• Measuring principle: Dynamic Digital Image Processing (ISO 13322-2)
• Measuring range:
• 1 µm to 8 mm (full possible range)
• 10 µm to 8 mm (free flowing dry particles)
• 1 µm to 3 mm (dry powder feeder using pressurized air)
• 1 µm to 600 µm (wet dispersion)
• Type of analysis: dry and wet analysis
• Measuring time: ~ 1 to 3 min (depending on the desired measuring statistics)
• Sample volume: < 20 mg - 100 g (depending on sample and measurement mode)
• Measuring methods: > 275 images/s, each with approx. 1.3 MPixel
• Width of analysis area: 20 mm (FoV)
• Resolution: 1 µm
• Measurement parameters:
• particle size (smallest diameter, length, mean diameter)
• Particle shape (aspect ratio width to length, symmetry, sphericity, convexity etc., acc. to ISO 9276-6)
• Dimensions (W x H x D): ~ 850 x 580 x 570 mm
• Weight (Measuring unit): ~ 50 kg

The CAMSIZER XT uses the principle of digital image processing. The patented  principle is fairly simple: dispersed particles pass in front of two bright, pulsed LED light sources. The shadows of the particles are captured with two digital cameras. One camera is optimized to analyse the small particles with high resolution, the other camera for the detection of the big particles with good statistics - that means large field of view. Each camera is illuminated by one LED with optimized brightness, pulse length and field of view. A user-friendly software analyzes the size and shape of each particle, and finally calculates the respective distribution curves in realtime.

Several sampling modules are available for measuring a wide range of samples from powders to suspensions. The X-Dry module is used for powders, and the X-Flow module for suspensions. Within the X-Dry module either the X-Jet or X-Fall inserts are used for sample presentation to the optics and dispersion. The X-Jet is optimized for fine powders and agglomerated materials requiring energy for proper dispersion. The X-Fall is ideal for larger free-flowing, non-agglomerated powders. The X-Flow module re-circulates liquid suspensions and can apply ultrasound to disperse agglomerates.