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Malvern Mastersizer Series User Manual

Malvern Mastersizer Series
183 pages
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Getting Started
Getting Started
MAN 0101 Issue1.3 August 1997

Table of Contents

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Malvern Mastersizer Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
Measurement principleLaser Diffraction
ComplianceISO 13320, USP <429>, EP 2.9.31
Particle size range0.01 μm to 3500 μm
Light sourceRed laser, Blue laser
Sample dispersionWet or dry dispersion
SoftwareMastersizer software

Summary

Introduction to this manual

Welcome to the Mastersizer Manual

Provides a brief overview of the Mastersizer's capabilities and usage.

Systems Covered by this Manual

Details the Mastersizer system family and models covered.

Access to the Instrument

Defines roles and responsibilities for accessing the instrument.

Assumed Information for Users

Outlines prerequisites and assumptions for understanding the manual.

Windows Terms Explained

Defines common Windows graphical user interface terms.

Menu Commands and Usage

Explains how to use menu commands and keyboard accelerators.

Where to Find Information

Guides users to relevant sections and chapters for detailed information.

Other Reading Material

Lists related manuals for more in-depth information.

Getting to Know Your System

Introduction to System Components

Introduces the main modules of a typical Mastersizer system.

Overview of the Optical Unit

Details the components of the optical unit: transmitter, receiver, sample area.

The Transmitter Components

Identifies and explains features on the transmitter end panel.

The Sample Area Components

Describes components within the sample area, including covers and lenses.

The Receiver Unit

Explains the function and components of the receiver unit.

Differences Between Mastersizer Models

Highlights differences between long and standard bench Mastersizers.

The Malvern Software

Provides an overview of the Windows-based Mastersizer software.

Mastersizer Program Group

Describes icons within the Mastersizer program group.

Finding Your Way Around the Screen

Identifies key features of the software interface.

Modes of Operation

Explains the different operating modes: Easy, Menu, and Program.

Getting Help with the Software

Details methods for accessing help, including F1 key and Help menu.

How the Mastersizer Works

Introduction to Mastersizer Principles

Introduces basic operating principles and measurement steps.

What the Mastersizer Measures

Explains how the Mastersizer uses scattering patterns to determine particle size.

How the Mastersizer Measures Particles

Describes the measurement process involving snap-shots and sweeps.

How to Make a Measurement

Outlines the stages of making a measurement, from setup to sample measurement.

How to Analyze Measurement Data

Details the three steps for analyzing measurement data.

Viewing the Measurement Results

Explains how to display and view the analyzed measurement results.

Saving Measurement Results

Provides guidance on structuring and saving measurement data.

Making a Measurement

Introduction to Measurement Procedures

Explains the practical steps for making a measurement.

General Measurement Advice

Provides general advice to be noted before making a measurement.

Sample Preparation for Measurement

Emphasizes the importance of correct sample preparation.

Cleanliness of the Optical System

Details the importance of clean optics for accurate measurements.

Choosing the Correct Range Lens

Guides lens selection based on sample size and dispersion method.

Sample Dispersion Method

Discusses how sample dispersion affects lens choice.

Avoiding Lens Cut Off (Vignetting)

Explains lens cut off and provides cut off points for lenses.

Measuring a Background

Explains the process and importance of measuring a background.

Instrument Preparation Steps

Covers connecting, powering, and checking system components.

Documenting the Measurement

Guides on entering sample names and notes for measurement records.

Introduction to Measure Windows

Describes the common features of measure windows.

Aligning the System Optics

Details how to align the laser centrally on the detector.

Taking a Background Measurement

Explains how to perform a background measurement using measure windows.

Adding the Sample for Measurement

Guides on adding sample and monitoring obscuration for correct concentration.

Measuring the Sample

Describes the final step of measuring the sample.

Analyzing the Measurement Data

Introduction to Data Analysis

Outlines the three steps involved in analyzing measurement data.

Choosing the Correct Analysis Mode

Explains different analysis models and how to select them.

Choosing the Correct Presentation

Guides on selecting or generating presentations for data analysis.

Special Presentations

Describes special presentations like Fraunhofer and Reference Reticle.

Calculating the Analysis Result

Explains how to calculate the final result after choosing model and presentation.

Viewing and Printing the Results

Introduction to Displaying and Printing Results

Covers options for displaying and printing measurement results.

Understanding Measurement Views

Explains the various standard views for displaying measurement data.

Generating and Printing Reports

Details how to print reports based on standard views.

Overview of Standard Views and Reports

Provides an overview of standard views and their contents.

Understanding Printing Options

Explains how to optimize printing quality and speed.

Selecting Fonts for Graphs and Tables

Guides on choosing fonts for graphs and table elements.

Installing and Selecting a Printer

Provides steps for installing and setting up a printer.

Changing Print Settings

Explains how to change printer settings like orientation and page size.

Printing from the Mastersizer

Details how to print reports, graphs, tables, or the active window.

Interpreting the Results

Introduction to Result Interpretation

Provides guidelines for interpreting Mastersizer results.

Fundamental Concepts for Interpretation

Explains key concepts like volume-based results and equivalent spheres.

Results are Volume Based

Explains that Mastersizer results are fundamentally volume-based.

Understanding Equivalent Spheres

Explains how irregular particles are represented as equivalent spheres.

Derived Distribution Parameters

Details calculation of distribution parameters from fundamental data.

Understanding Tables and Graphs

Explains the meaning of items in results tables and graphs.

Automating the Process

Introduction to Automated Processes

Introduces setting up semi-automatic measurement sequences.

Setting Up a Measurement Sequence

Guides on configuring measurement procedures and process steps.

Sample Preparation

Introduction to Sample Preparation

Emphasizes the critical nature of sample preparation for accurate results.

Representative Sampling Techniques

Explains how to ensure a sample is representative of the whole.

Considerations for Dry Samples

Discusses factors to consider when preparing dry samples.

Considerations for Wet Samples

Discusses factors to consider when preparing wet samples.

Choice and Preparation of the Dispersant

Guides on selecting and preparing the suspension medium.

Use of Surfactants and Admixtures

Explains additives to aid sample dispersion.

Preparing Slurries for Measurement

Describes the process of mixing sample, dispersant, and additives.

The Use of Ultrasonics for Dispersion

Explains how ultrasonics can assist in sample dispersion.

Handling Samples with Unstable Concentrations

Discusses managing samples with varying obscuration levels.

Summary of Sample Preparation

Provides a flow diagram for preparing unknown samples.

Advanced Result Processing

Modifying Measurement Results

Details ways to modify results before presentation.

Killing Data Channels

Explains how to remove data channels to exclude effects like noise or bubbles.

Killing Result Channels

Describes removing result channels to isolate modes or remove contaminants.

Using the Kill Cursors

Explains how to use cursors on the graph to kill data or result channels.

Shape Correction and Size Calibration

Modifies Mastersizer results to match other sizing methods.

Extending the Measurement Result

Adds results from other methods to extend the Mastersizer's size range.

Transforming Result Type

Converts volume distribution to surface area, length, or number distributions.

Blending Measurement Results

Combines results from different range lenses for a broader size range.

Applying Multiple Modifications

Explains how to apply multiple modifications sequentially to a result.

Tromp Curve Analysis

Describes analysis for gauging classifier and separator efficiency.

Maintenance Procedures

Introduction to Maintenance

Overview of supervisor/operator maintenance tasks.

Replacing Sample Tubing

Instructions for replacing plastic tubing in the flow cell system.

Replacing Fuses

Details on how to safely replace fuses in the instrument.

Cleaning the Instrument Covers

Guides on cleaning external covers using mild soap solution.

Cleaning the Optics

Explains when and how to clean optics, cell windows, and beam expander.

Cleaning the Cell Windows

Provides detailed steps for removing and cleaning cell windows.

Cleaning the Range Lenses

Instructions for cleaning range lenses, including inspection and wiping.

Cleaning the Beam Expander

Guides on cleaning the beam expander, including aperture plate removal.

Specification Details

Introduction to Specifications

Covers Mastersizer specifications and accessory details.

Particle Sizing Specification

Details size ranges and accuracy for Mastersizer X and S.

Optical Unit Specification

Describes the specifications of transmitter, receiver, and detectors.

Minimum Computer Requirements

Lists the minimum hardware and software requirements for operation.

Mastersizer Programme Specification

Details loading, copying, and configuration aspects of the programme.

Software Revision Level

Discusses software development and version updates.

Chemical Compatibility

Introduction to Chemical Compatibility

Emphasizes checking chemical compatibility with system materials.

Components in Contact with Sample and Dispersant

Lists materials in contact with samples and dispersants.

Spray Measurements Compatibility

Details materials in contact with samples during spray measurements.

Remote Interlock System

Remote Interlock Functionality

Explains using the 'Remote' connector for safety interlocks.

Estimating the Absorption

Introduction to Absorption Estimation

Discusses estimating imaginary refractive index (absorption) for analysis.

Estimating Absorption Using Concentration

Provides a technique for estimating absorption via concentration measurements.

Advice for Continuous Sprays

Introduction to Spray Measurement

Describes measuring a continuous stable spray.

Arranging for Spray Extraction

Ensures proper ventilation and safety for spray measurements.

Using the Correct Optical Configuration

Recommends appropriate lenses and configurations for spray measurements.

Positioning the Spray Nozzle

Guides on optimal nozzle distance for accurate spray measurements.

Avoiding Spraying the Optical Unit

Warns against spray contact with optical components.

Ensuring Spray Stability During Measurement

Advises on achieving stable spray conditions for reliable results.

Malvern Addresses

Malvern Subsidiaries and Contact Information

Provides contact details for Malvern Instruments offices worldwide.

Regulatory Compliance Statements

Statement of Low Voltage Directive Compliance

Confirms compliance with European Low-Voltage Directive.

Statement of EMC Performance for Mastersizer S

Details EMC performance and test conditions for Mastersizer S.

Statement of EMC Performance for Mastersizer X

Details EMC performance and test conditions for Mastersizer X.

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