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To measure particle size in a slurry or powder you need sieves. This is the most popular type used in labs. They are made from brass by a company named Tyler. The range of screen sizes for testing particle size is very wide (obvious here: the top screen has an opening of 56 mm, the bottom one 0.1 mm - the wires are almost too small to see). You can often buy these used on Ebay for a lot less than new ones, search for "tyler sieve". The finer sieves (especially 200) are fragile and more easily ripped. For potters it is good to have a 50, 100 and 150.
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This picture has its own page with more detail, click here to see it.
This is the brainchild Kirk Miller at Plainsman Clays. I made the drawing based on one that he made. It sits on top of a 5-gallon pail (the bolts sit into slots cut down from the rim). 3D rings must be printed to slide down onto the metal hoop and they must create an inner diameter that enables the lab sieve to seat securely.
Tests |
Sieve Analysis Dry
A measure of particle size distribution by vibrating a powdered sample through a series of successively finer sieves |
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Tests |
Sieve Analysis Wet
A measure of particle size distribution by washing a powdered or slaked sample through a series of successively finer sieves |
Tests |
Sieve Analysis 35-325 Wet
A measure of particle size distribution by washing a powdered or slaked sample through a series of successively finer sieves |
Tests |
Wet Sieve Residue
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Glossary |
Particle Size Distribution
Knowing the distribution of particle sizes in a ceramic material is often very important in assessing its function and suitability for an application. |
Glossary |
Ultimate Particles
Utlimate particles of ceramic materials are finer than can be measured even on a 325 mesh screen. These particles are the key players in the physical presence of the material. |
Glossary |
325 mesh
325 mesh (a sieve with 325 wires/inch) is the finest particle size that most ceramic minerals can be practically processed to (premium grades). |
Glossary |
Sieve
Sieves are important in ceramics for removing particulates and agglomerates from glaze, engobe and body slurries. |
Glossary |
Particle Sizes
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Glossary |
Sieve Shaker
A device that can vibrate a sieve thus greatly increasing the speed at which it can process a slurry or powder. |
Articles |
Particle Size Distribution of Ceramic Powders
Understanding the theory behind sieve selection, how to properly sample a powder and how to carry out a particle size distribution test can give you valuable information about a material. |
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