Sieve analysis in the lab

Clean laboratory environment, use only tested laboratory equipment

Visual inspection of sieves before each sieving, no tears or holes in the cloth, good mesh tension, use clean sieves

Check whether the sieves are correctly marked, mesh size, norm

Sampling, avoid overfilling the test sieves (sample too large)

Correct division method based on the "quartering and coning" model, use of sample dividers

Insert the sieve set into the test sieve shaker and fit the machine cover. Tension the sieve tower evenly on both sides, if the tensioning nuts come loose during sieving, stop sieving, reassemble the sieves and tighten again

Observe minimum sieve tower height (min. 3 test sieves)

Observe the sequence of mesh sizes (from coarse to fine)

The following guideline can be used for the correct setting of the test sieve machine: set a higher amplitude (1.2-2 mm) for coarse materials and a low amplitude (0.5 -1.0 mm) for powders and fine materials

Checking the correct sieving time and amplitude by manual re-sieving after the analysis, documentation of the data and values obtained leads to the creation of a material list - this leads to time savings and standardization of processes

Intermittent operation of the test sieving machine is also recommended for materials that are critical to sieving in order to loosen the trapped grain

For materials with a strong tendency to agglomerate, the use of ultrasonic is recommended for powders; for coarser materials, sieving aids such as rubber tapping balls or cubes can be used as an alternative - caution, a grinding effect should be avoided in any case, as otherwise the results are not reproducible

Selection of the correct scale, the feed weight should not exceed the maximum weighing range, the accuracy of the scale is specified by the manufacturer and should meet the test requirements

Use of evaluation software with direct data transfer from the balance eliminates operator error and speeds report generation

After sieving, the sieves must be cleaned, for fine mesh < 250 µm in an ultrasonic bath, alternatively with a fine brush, for coarse mesh types a brush can also be used, carefully remove coarse grit with a nail or metal mandrel, otherwise clean with an ultrasonic bath here too

The sieves can be dried in a laboratory oven, taking into account the temperature resistance of the sieves, which is recommended not to exceed 120 °C. Before cleaning and drying, remove the gaskets from the sieves

Always wear gloves when removing the sieves from the drying oven due to the heat

Finalize documentation, back up data, clean workstation

The laboratory is ready for you next test sieving!