Endecotts OCTAGON 200 Electromagnetic 3D Sieve Shaker

Overview

The Endecotts OCTAGON 200 Electromagnetic 3D Sieve Shaker is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for reproducible, high-efficiency particle size distribution analysis via dry or wet sieve fractionation. Unlike conventional rotary or mechanical shakers, the OCTAGON 200 employs an electromagnetic drive system that generates true three-dimensional oscillatory motion—comprising simultaneous vertical lift, horizontal displacement, and rotational torsion—optimized to maximize particle stratification and screen penetration while minimizing blinding and agglomeration. This motion profile ensures uniform energy transfer across the entire sieve stack, enabling rapid, statistically robust separation of granular materials within defined size ranges (20 µm to 125 mm). Its solid-state actuation eliminates rotating shafts, belts, or bearings—resulting in zero mechanical wear, silent operation (<65 dB(A)), and long-term calibration stability without scheduled maintenance. The instrument complies with ISO 2591-1:2022 (Methods for sieving of granular materials), ASTM E11–23 (Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves), and supports GLP-compliant workflows through traceable parameter logging and repeatable protocol execution.

Key Features

• Electromagnetic 3D drive mechanism delivering consistent, low-noise vibration without mechanical wear or lubrication requirements
• Digital controller with real-time adjustment of amplitude (0–3 mm, 10 discrete steps), total run time (0:10–99:59 min), and programmable interval mode (ON/OFF duration independently configurable)
• Quick-release clamp system engineered for secure yet non-deforming fixation of 200 mm (8 in) full-height or 100 mm sieves—enabling tool-free setup and rapid stack reconfiguration
• Non-metallic isolation springs and integrated anti-vibration feet ensure effective decoupling from bench surfaces, reducing transmitted vibration and ambient noise
• Robust aluminum alloy chassis with IP54-rated enclosure for dust resistance and operational safety in shared lab environments
• Support for both dry and wet sieving protocols; compatible with standard ISO/ASTM-compliant woven-wire and perforated test sieves
• Compact footprint (418 × 232 × 435 mm) and 43 kg net weight facilitate mobility between analytical labs, QC stations, or field deployment scenarios

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The OCTAGON 200 accommodates diverse particulate matrices—including metal powders, pharmaceutical granules, mineral ores, catalysts, food ingredients, and construction aggregates—across a broad sizing range (20 µm to 125 mm). Its 3D motion mitigates particle nesting and sieve clogging, especially critical for cohesive, hygroscopic, or near-size-distribution samples. Up to eight full-height 200 mm sieves (or eighteen half-height units) can be stacked vertically to a maximum height of 450 mm, allowing multi-stage fractionation per single run. All operational parameters—including amplitude, time, and cycling logic—are fully documented and reproducible, satisfying audit requirements under ISO/IEC 17025, FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with validated LIMS integration), and GMP Annex 11 data integrity principles. CE marking confirms conformity with EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU.

Software & Data Management

While the OCTAGON 200 operates as a standalone instrument with intuitive front-panel controls, its digital timer and parameter memory support seamless integration into regulated environments. Each test sequence is defined by user-stored settings (amplitude level, duration, ON/OFF intervals), ensuring method consistency across operators and shifts. Optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface (available via accessory module) enables connection to laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or custom data acquisition software for automated parameter logging, timestamped run records, and electronic signature capture. Audit trails—including operator ID, start/stop timestamps, and deviation flags for out-of-spec amplitude drift—can be exported in CSV or PDF format for regulatory review. Firmware updates maintain alignment with evolving international standards, including revisions to ISO 9001:2015 clause 7.1.5.2 (monitoring and measuring resources).

Applications

• Quality control of bulk pharmaceutical excipients and active ingredients per USP and EP 2.9.31
• Particle size verification of battery cathode/anode powders in R&D and production environments
• Aggregate gradation analysis for asphalt and concrete compliance with ASTM C136/C136M
• Classification of ceramic raw materials and sintered powder metallurgy feedstocks
• Monitoring of spray-dried food powders for flowability and dissolution performance
• Environmental sediment analysis per ISO 11277 for soil texture classification
• Validation of milling and micronization processes in chemical and polymer manufacturing

FAQ

What distinguishes 3D electromagnetic sieving from conventional rotary or tapping methods?
The OCTAGON 200’s electromagnetic actuator induces orthogonal acceleration vectors—vertical lift, lateral shear, and subtle torsional rotation—simultaneously. This promotes continuous particle reorientation and prevents preferential settling, significantly improving separation efficiency and repeatability compared to unidirectional or orbital motion.
Can the OCTAGON 200 be used for wet sieving with liquid dispersion media?
Yes. It supports wet sieving using standard 200 mm stainless steel sieve frames with sealed gaskets and optional splash guards. The IP54-rated housing protects internal electronics from incidental moisture exposure during routine rinsing or solvent-based cleaning.
Is calibration traceable to national standards?
Amplitude and timing functions are factory-calibrated against NPL-traceable reference instruments. Endecotts provides a Certificate of Conformance with each unit; optional UKAS-accredited calibration services are available upon request.
How is sieve stack stability maintained at high amplitudes?
The patented quick-clamp system applies uniform radial pressure without over-tightening, preserving sieve mesh integrity while preventing lateral slippage—even at maximum 3 mm amplitude and 3000 rpm frequency.
Does the instrument meet requirements for regulated pharmaceutical laboratories?
Yes. When operated with documented SOPs and paired with appropriate data capture tools, it fulfills key elements of FDA guidance on laboratory equipment validation, including installation qualification (IQ), operational qualification (OQ), and performance qualification (PQ) for sieve shaker applications.