Laser Diffraction — The Most Efficient Technique for Drop Size Measurement

In the market, there are fewer drop size measurement techniques. So, when it comes to getting reliable measurements and analysis of drop size, you should look for a service provider that offers drop size measurement services by using a reliable particle size analyzer, Malvern for example. Why? What is it, and what makes it so reliable?

What is Malvern Particle Size Analyzer?

Malvern Particle Size Analyzer is drop-size measurement equipment that uses laser diffraction techniques to measure the size of particles and that may include suspension of solid particles, emulsion droplets, or dry powders.

Why do companies need drop size measurements?

The size of particles in a lubricant plays a vital role in the performance of a lubricant. One of the most common examples is the size of emulsion droplets in emulsion-based metalworking fluids.

In rolling oil, the emulsion droplets (oil-in-water) are required to plate out on the roll bite. Their size has a lot to do with how well they do this. If droplets are too large, they cannot enter the roll bite, and if they are too small they will enter but pass straight through and not plate out.

In both cases, the lubricant contained in the droplet will not be transferred to the destination surface.

Why is laser diffraction particle sizing preferred over other techniques?

The reason for choosing laser diffraction particle sizing among different drop size measurement techniques is that it enables you to measure the size distribution of emulsion droplets. The obtained information through this technique helps in selecting appropriate emulsifiers to control droplet size and distribution.

The Malvern Particle Sizer uses the principles of Static Light Scattering (SLS) and Mie theory to determine droplet size in a sample. The main principle behind it is small particles scatter light at large angles, and large particles scatter light at small angles.

Particle Size and Size Distribution has a direct influence on a variety of material properties, such as:

· Reaction rate: The surface area of the particle is crucial in determining the rate of the chemical reaction.

· Dissolution rate: By creating finer particles and increasing surface area, the physical barriers to dissolution are reduced.

· Packing density: Large particles pack more poorly than small particles.

· Product appearance: Particles scatter light in different ways based on their size, and this fact is exploited in the manufacturing process of paints, inks, toners, and surface coatings.

· Sedimentation: The suspension stability is most easily achieved by the avoidance of sedimentation. Unstable suspensions can wreak havoc in many industries.

· Texture: The size of particles has a direct correlation with a customer’s perception of a product, and thereby the reputation of a company. It is true particularly in the case of food products in which particle size can impact the enjoyment of the product.

Measuring particle size distributions can affect the efficiency of a product or process. Companies prefer Malvern Particle Sizer as it helps them maximize productivity and develop better products faster.