MATERIALS AND SOLIDS PROCESSING


reduce batch release times, both of which are important goals for processors.” PAT is playing a pivotal role in achieving


the fine chemical and pharmaceutical industries’ stated aims of moving away from batch operation and off-line monitoring towards continuous, integrated processing and real-time release. Granulation is a unit operation that is used widely in pharmaceutical processing, particularly in tablet production, but its control can be challenging. De Beer’s research shows that by


correlating particle size data - and other process variables such as binder addition rate and inlet air temperature - with granule quality defined in terms of density, it is possible to develop predictive process models. These can be used to define and control processing conditions to deliver a successful outcome. The rugged Parsum probe measures


particle size across the size range 50-6000 microns using the technique of spatial particle velocimetry. Available in a number of different probe lengths it is designed specifically for in-process use and can be installed directly into a line or vessel for real-time monitoring. With a number of in-built features that prevent fouling, the Parsum delivers continuous performance even for demanding applications such as wet granulation, and is easily integrated in automated control hierarchies.


Powder characterisation New from Hosokawa Micron is the Hosokawa PT-X powder characteristics tester, the latest version of the well-known laboratory unit which is used to determine powder characteristics when designing powder handling and processing systems. The new unit been updated with a number of features to make it easier to use and more


operator friendly. The design allows the unit to be used in conjunction with computers for data recording, delivering a clear visual display of analysis results to enable the operator to evaluate the results simply and quickly. All seven powder characteristics that help


in the design and control of powder handling and processing systems can be measured by the PT-X unit: angle of repose, compressibility, angle of spatula, cohesion, angle of fall, dispersibility, and angle of difference. In addition three auxiliary values - aerated bulk density, packed bulk density and uniformity - can also be evaluated in order to determine results for the flowability and floodability of dry powders.


Particle testing services P


article size, particle concentration and other physical characterisation analyses are critical to many


environmental applications.


Regulatory agencies in the environmental sphere demand strict compliance to standards and discharge regulations. Physical testing of samples for parameters such as particle size and concentration can give insight to the process control engineer on how effective and compliant a discharge handling system is operating.


Particulate loading from both air emissions and waste water discharge are monitored in many industry sectors and Particle Technology


Labs (PTL) testing provides valuable supporting data in this monitoring process.


Evaluation of filter efficiency by analysis of pre- and post-filtration samples for particle size and concentration has proven useful to numerous clients.


Values such as PM10, PM2.5, total suspended solids concentration, pH, conductivity and particle size distribution are just some of the commonly referenced values by regulatory agencies and process engineers. PTL has provided accurate and reliable testing for these parameters since its inception. In addition, the company’s analytical staff has years of experience designing test methods


and performing analysis for cosmetic, skin care, fragrance and personal hygiene samples. Whether a customer needs a third-party verification, routine QC confirmation, stability studies or one time testing, PTL will create a project to meet individual needs. Applications include the size and shape of cosmetic enhancers (glitter particles for example) in a final product, droplet size from spray nozzles/atomisers and particle size of emulsion particles comprising creams/lotions. In addition, the particle size of powdered cosmetics is of tremendous importance in how they flow, cover and can directly affect their appearance as well as the user’s ski. ❒


ECE 14


Fig. 1. Probe-based technology eliminates sampling’s measurement variability for simpler, faster and more cost-effective system characterisation.


The PT-X offers computer control via a touch screen 12.5 inch tablet PC using a core i5 processor with Windows 7 Professional operating system which can reduce analysis time. Reduced operator intervention ensures analysis accuracy and repeatability. The unit’s inner wall forms part of the


structure making the PT-X easier to clean and an optional integrated HEPA filter for dust protection is available, as is a vacuum cleaner. ❒


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