Sieve Analysis Laboratory

Materials Characterization Problem Solving Immediate handling of your samples
More than 140 people
More than 140 people at your service
5200 m² laboratory
5200 m² laboratory + 99% of services are provided in-house

Your needs: analyze the particle size of a granular material by sieving

What is sieve particle size analysis?

L’analyse granulométrique par tamisage fait partie de nos analyses de granulométrie

L’analyse par tamisage permet :

  • De mesurer la taille des particules présentes au sein d’un échantillon pour en comprendre leur nature. 
  • De mesurer la qualité  et la conformité des poudres ou granulés utilisés dans de nombreux secteurs d’activités (chimie, pharmaceutique, dispositifs médicaux…) et notamment dans le cadre des productions par fabrication additive.

Ce type d’analyse peut également être réalisé par granulométrie laser (voie liquide ou par voie sèche) ou par sédimentation.

The operating principle of sieve analysis

L’analyse granulométrique par tamisage repose sur le passage d’un échantillon de matériau à travers une série de tamis de différentes mailles, classées par taille décroissante. 

Chaque tamis retient les particules plus grandes que ses ouvertures tout en laissant passer les plus petites. 

En pesant la quantité de matériau retenue par chaque tamis, on peut déterminer la distribution de taille des particules de l’échantillon.

Sieve particle size analysis to define particle size

Particle size influences material properties such as flow and transport for bulk materials, chemical reactivity, abrasiveness, solubility, extraction and reaction behavior, as well as compressibility.

Accurate particle size determination is therefore essential for a wide range of industries, including construction, plastics, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

In industry, poor control of particle size can lead to product performance issues, inefficiencies in manufacturing processes, and increased safety and environmental risks.

Why carry out a sieve test?

Carrying out a laboratory sieve test on particulate materials makes it possible to determine the particle size distribution, which is essential to ensure the quality and compliance of materials used in various industries, such as construction, pharmaceuticals and food.

It ensures batch homogeneity, optimizes production processes and the quality of finished products, and contributes to the research and development of new products. In addition, knowledge of particle size helps manage environmental impacts and safety risks associated with handling these materials.

Our solutions: study particle size distribution by sieve particle size analysis

FILAB offers you its expertise with great responsiveness for material characterization, and particle size distribution by sieve particle size analysis. By referring to current standards, we ensure reliable results that comply with industry standards, thereby optimizing product quality, performance and safety in a variety of sectors such as construction, plastics, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products.

Our sieve analysis services

Example of a laboratory sieve analysis application

Sieve particle size analysis have several essential objectives in various industrial contexts. Indeed, determining the particle size distribution of a material makes it possible to understand its composition and properties.

  • Quality and compliance: verify that materials meet specifications and industry standards, thereby ensuring their suitability for specific applications.
  • Batch homogeneity control: Ensure the consistency and uniformity of material batches, which is crucial for maintaining the quality of finished products.
  • Production process optimization: Adjust production parameters to improve efficiency and profitability based on the particle size distribution of materials.
  • Study of reactivity and solubility: analyze particle size to influence chemical reaction rate, solubility, and other physicochemical behaviors of materials.
  • Control of abrasiveness and compressibility: assess the impact of particle size on the mechanical properties of materials, such as their abrasiveness and compressibility, for specific applications.
  • Risk prevention: identify and manage risks associated with handling particulate materials, such as dust explosions or environmental issues.
  • Research and Development: help design and optimize new materials and products by providing accurate particle size data.

Material sieving and industrial applications

Material Type

Industrial Application

Sand

Concrete production, construction, glass industry

Gravel

Public works, road construction, concrete

Metal Powders

Metallurgy, additive manufacturing (metal 3D printing), surface treatments

Crushed Minerals

Cement production, plasters, construction materials

Pharmaceutical Powders

Tablet formulation, coating, drug production

Flours and Cereals

Food processing industry, bakery product manufacturing

Pigments and Dyes

Paint, ink, and cosmetics manufacturing

Plastic Granules

Plastic injection molding, extrusion, industrial parts manufacturing

Granular Fertilizers

Agriculture, production and distribution of chemical fertilizers

Ceramics

Technical and sanitary ceramics industry, electronics

Coal

Energy production, metallurgical industries

Cosmetic Powders

Cosmetic product formulation, makeup

Our particle size analysis services

Our FAQ

What types of materials can be analyzed by sieving?

Sieving is applicable to a wide variety of solid materials, from coarse aggregates used in construction to fine powders in the pharmaceutical, food, and chemical industries. However, it is most effective for particles ranging in size from 75 micrometers (µm) to several centimeters.

How do you choose the right sieves for an analysis?

The choice of sieves depends on the expected particle size distribution of the sample. A standard series of sieves, with decreasing mesh openings, is generally used to cover the expected size range. ISO 3310 and ASTM E11 standards provide specifications for test sieves based on the needs of the analysis.

How are the results of sieve analysis interpreted?

The results are generally presented as a particle size distribution, showing the percentage of the total sample found in each size fraction. This makes it possible to gain insight into the range of particle sizes present in the sample and to calculate parameters such as the mean, median, and mode of the size distribution. These data are crucial for understanding the material's behavior in its final application.

What are the standards for sieve-based particle size analysis of laboratory materials?

The standards for sieve-based particle size analysis of laboratory materials include guidelines from ASTM, ISO, and NF. 

ASTM E11 and ASTM C136 specify the requirements for sieves and the test method for aggregates. 

ISO 3310-1 and ISO 565 define sieve characteristics and general sieving methods. 

In France, NF standards such as NF P94-056 govern the particle size analysis of soils. 

These standards ensure the accuracy, reproducibility, and comparability of results for various industrial applications.

What are the advantages of sieve-based particle size analysis?

Sieve-based particle size analysis is a method used to determine particle sizes in a sample of soil, dust, or any other granular material. This technique offers several advantages. By using sieves of various sizes, particle size analysis makes it possible to determine the particle size distribution accurately and quickly. The results obtained can be essential for understanding the physical and mechanical properties of the materials studied, particularly in the pharmaceutical, construction, and agriculture industries.

What sample preparation is required before sieve-based particle size analysis?

Before submitting a sample to sieve-based particle size analysis, it is recommended to dry the sample in order to obtain accurate measurements without interference from moisture. Next, the sample should be homogenized to ensure an even distribution of particles during sieving. This step helps prevent agglomerates and clogging in the sieve mesh. In addition, it is important to ensure that the amount of material submitted for analysis is sufficient to obtain meaningful results. Sieving is therefore an effective and reliable method for determining the particle size distribution of solid samples in the laboratory.

What are the advantages of sieve-based particle size analysis?

Sieve-based particle size analysis is a method used to determine particle sizes in a sample of soil, dust, or any other granular material. This technique offers several advantages. By using sieves of various sizes, particle size analysis makes it possible to determine the particle size distribution accurately and quickly. The results obtained can be essential for understanding the physical and mechanical properties of the materials studied, particularly in the pharmaceutical, construction, and agriculture industries.

What sample preparation is required before sieve-based particle size analysis?

Before submitting a sample to sieve-based particle size analysis, it is recommended to dry the sample in order to obtain accurate measurements without interference from moisture. Next, the sample should be homogenized to ensure an even distribution of particles during sieving. This step helps prevent agglomerates and clogging in the sieve mesh. In addition, it is important to ensure that the amount of material submitted for analysis is sufficient to obtain meaningful results. Sieving is therefore an effective and reliable method for determining the particle size distribution of solid samples in the laboratory.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
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