At Nesch Mintec we utilize cyclosizing, laser light scattering and mechanical sieving technology for your particle size distribution (PSD) analysis needs. Our trained and skilled laboratory staff offer recommendations and insight into the analysis of your sample(s). We deliver expert testing that is quality checked for accuracy for as many samples as you wish. Also, a full statement on the results will be provided and emailed to the customer for review. Our laboratory also offers expedited next day turn-around, if required.
There are several methods with which particle size distributions can be determined. Each of these measures a particle dimension that depends on a scientific principle behind that particular technique. Sieving is the most widely used technique for particle size analysis. This is because it is simple and it covers a wide range of particle sizes that are of industrial interest. Sieving is particularly used for size measurement of powders having the greater proportion of particles in the range of 10mm to 38μm. There are other techniques that are preferred for determination of sizes smaller than 38μm (sub-sieve sizes), e.g. elutriation. A sieve is an open container, usually cylindrical, having fixed spaced and uniform openings (apertures) in the base.
Size analysis of the various products of a mineral processing plant constitutes a fundamental part of laboratory testing procedure. It is of great importance in determining the quality of grinding and in establishing the degree of liberation of the values from the gangue at various particle sizes. In the mineral concentration stage, size analysis of the streams is used to determine the optimum size of the feed to the process for maximum efficiency and to determine the size range at which any losses are occurring in the plant, so that they may be reduced. It is essential, therefore, that methods of size analysis must be accurate and reliable, as important changes in plant operation may be made on the results of the laboratory tests.