Gilson SS-31 Ro-Tap® Sieve Shaker (12-inch, 115V/60Hz)
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | SS-31 |
| Price | Upon Request |
Overview
The Gilson SS-31 Ro-Tap® Sieve Shaker is a precision-engineered mechanical sieve shaker designed to perform standardized particle size distribution analysis in accordance with ASTM E11, ASTM D6913, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786>. It replicates the classic Ro-Tap® motion profile—combining horizontal circular oscillation (278 cycles/min) with vertical tapping (150 taps/min)—to ensure uniform particle stratification, efficient particle passage through mesh openings, and high reproducibility across repeated tests. Unlike orbital or vibratory shakers, the Ro-Tap® mechanism delivers controlled, deterministic motion that minimizes particle agglomeration and screen blinding, making it the reference method for quality control laboratories in aggregates, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, ceramics, and metallurgy. The SS-31 model accommodates up to four full-height 12-inch (305 mm) test sieves or eight half-height sieves, delivering over twice the effective screening area of 8-inch models—critical for low-yield or coarse samples requiring statistical representativeness.
Key Features
- Ro-Tap® patented dual-motion drive system: 278 oscillations/min + 150 vertical taps/min, calibrated per ASTM E11 Annex A1
- Robust 1/4 HP induction motor with thermal overload protection for continuous-duty operation
- Digital timer with 0.1-second resolution and programmable range up to 99 minutes
- Quick-adjust sieve support plate with positive-lock clamping for rapid stack configuration changes
- Stable base design with optional bench-mounting hardware to minimize vibration transmission
- Compliance-ready architecture: All electrical components meet UL 61010-1 and CE standards; compatible with GLP/GMP documentation workflows
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SS-31 supports standard 12-inch (305 mm) diameter test sieves—including W.S. Tyler®, Endecotts®, and certified ISO 3310-1 and ASTM E11 compliant meshes—from 0.5 inch (12.5 mm) down to No. 500 (25 µm). Its large-capacity stack configuration enables statistically robust analysis of heterogeneous bulk materials such as crushed stone, foundry sand, catalyst pellets, and granulated APIs. When used with traceable calibration sieves and documented SOPs, the system satisfies audit requirements under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with compliant data logging software), ISO/IEC 17025, and pharmacopeial monographs (USP <786>, EP 2.9.32). Optional sound enclosure (W.S. Tyler® SoundShell®) reduces operational noise to ≤65 dBA at 1 m, supporting shared lab environments.
Software & Data Management
While the SS-31 operates as a standalone electromechanical instrument, its timing parameters and usage logs integrate seamlessly into laboratory information management systems (LIMS) via external digital recording. For full electronic record compliance, users may pair the shaker with Gilson’s validated data acquisition modules or third-party timestamped video documentation systems. The digital timer retains settings after power cycling, and its non-volatile memory ensures repeatable test durations without manual re-entry—supporting 21 CFR Part 11 audit trails when deployed within a validated computerized system. Routine performance verification (RPV) protocols—including tap amplitude and cycle rate checks using calibrated accelerometers—are recommended quarterly per ASTM D6913 Section 8.2.
Applications
- Aggregate gradation testing per ASTM C136/C136M and AASHTO T 27
- Pharmaceutical granule and powder flow characterization per USP <786>
- Ceramic and refractory raw material classification
- Metal powder quality assurance in additive manufacturing feedstock qualification
- Soil and sediment particle size analysis per ASTM D6913
- Quality release testing of industrial catalysts and activated carbon
FAQ
What voltage and frequency options are available for the SS-31?
The SS-31 is supplied in three configurations: 115 V / 60 Hz (standard North American), 230 V / 50 Hz (European/Asian), and 230 V / 60 Hz (Japan, select industrial facilities). Electrical specifications are permanently labeled on the rear panel.
Can ISO-standard 300 mm sieves be used with the SS-31?
Yes—the SS-31 accepts all 305 mm (12-inch) diameter sieves conforming to ISO 3310-1 and ASTM E11, including metric-designated 300 mm frames with appropriate adapter rings.
Is the SS-31 suitable for GMP-regulated environments?
Yes, when operated within a validated process using calibrated sieves, documented maintenance records, and electronic data capture (e.g., timestamped video or LIMS-integrated timers), the SS-31 meets core requirements for equipment qualification under ICH Q7 and EU Annex 15.
What is the maximum stack height supported by the SS-31?
Four full-height 12-inch sieves plus receiver pan (total stack height ≈ 24 inches); alternatively, six mid-height or eight half-height sieves with corresponding pans.
Does the SS-31 require periodic calibration?
While no user calibration is required, annual verification of tap amplitude (±5% of nominal 0.75-inch stroke) and oscillation frequency (278 ±2 cpm) using NIST-traceable instrumentation is recommended per ASTM E11 Section 7.3.
