Malvern Mastersizer 3000 Manual

Hardware features
31
Hydro SM — basic operation
The Hydro SM is designed for the measurement of samples in non-aqueous dispersants
where solvent usage needs to be minimized. This is ideal when the sample or dispersant
is toxic or expensive. This section provides an overview of the working principles of the
unit.
3
2
1
The tank [1] holds the sample and dispersant. The maximum volume of 120 ml is depend-
ent on the length of pipe used.
Aqueous or non-aqueous dispersant is manually added into the tank using a pipette or
spatula. A stirrer within the tank agitates the sample to stop any settlement or separation.
The dispersion unit controller [2] controls the speed of a pump within the tank. This cir-
culates the dispersant to the wet cell [3] in the optical unit for measurement. After meas-
urement, the sample can be disposed of through the drain outlet.
Refer to the Mastersizer 3000 User Manual for advice on the addition of sample.

Malvern Mastersizer 3000 Specifications

General

Measurement principle	Laser diffraction
Blue laser wavelength	470 nm
Sample dispersion options	Wet and dry dispersion
Data acquisition rate	10 kHz
Particle size range	0.01 to 3500 microns
Laser type	He-Ne and solid state
Accuracy	Better than 1%
Repeatability	Better than 0.5%
Technology	Mie and Fraunhofer theories
Sample dispersion units	Hydro MV, Hydro LV, Aero S
Optical model	Mie theory
Power requirements	100-240 V, 50/60 Hz
Detector arrangement	Log-spaced array