Gilson SS-30F Ro-Tap Sieve Shaker

Overview

The Gilson SS-30F 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 C136/C136M, ISO 565, ISO 3310-1, and other internationally recognized test methods. It replicates the classic Ro-Tap motion profile: a synchronized combination of horizontal circular oscillation (278 cycles per minute) and vertical tapping (150 taps per minute), which ensures uniform particle stratification and efficient separation across stacked sieve decks. This dual-motion mechanism minimizes particle agglomeration and screen blinding while maximizing sieving efficiency—particularly critical for cohesive, fine, or irregularly shaped materials. Built for laboratory and quality control environments requiring high repeatability and long-term operational stability, the SS-30F features a robust cast-iron frame, precision-machined cam drive system, and a thermally protected ¼ HP induction motor rated for continuous duty. Its 230 V / 50 Hz configuration complies with European and many international mains specifications, making it suitable for integration into global QC workflows without voltage conversion.

Key Features

• Ro-Tap®-certified dual-motion drive: 278 rpm horizontal oscillation + 150 rpm vertical tapping—calibrated to meet ASTM E11 timing tolerances
• Dedicated 230 V / 50 Hz power input with thermal overload protection and electromagnetic interference (EMI) suppression
• Digital timer with 0.1-second resolution and programmable duration up to 99 minutes—supports GLP-compliant audit trails when paired with external logging software
• Quick-adjust sieve clamp assembly accommodating up to six full-height 8-inch (203 mm) test sieves or thirteen half-height sieves; compatible with both ASTM and ISO-standard frames (including 200 mm diameter)
• Heavy-duty cast-iron base with threaded mounting holes for secure anchoring to lab benches or vibration-dampening platforms
• Integrated safety interlock that halts operation when the sieve cover is unlatched—meeting IEC 61000-6-2 EMC and IEC 61000-6-4 emission standards

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SS-30F is validated for use with dry, free-flowing, and moderately cohesive granular materials across a nominal particle size range of No. 4 to No. 635 (4.75 mm to 20 µm). It supports standard W.S. Tyler® test sieves—including stainless steel, brass, and nylon mesh variants—with aperture sizes traceable to NIST-certified reference standards. The unit conforms to ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for equipment verification when operated within its specified environmental conditions (15–30 °C, ≤80% RH non-condensing). Routine performance verification may be conducted using certified reference sands (e.g., ASTM C780 standard sand) or glass bead standards. Documentation packages include factory calibration certificates referencing ASTM E323-22 Annex A1 procedures for motion amplitude and frequency validation.

Software & Data Management

While the SS-30F operates as a standalone electromechanical instrument without embedded firmware or network connectivity, its digital timer output can interface with external data acquisition systems via dry-contact relay signals (optional accessory). When deployed in regulated environments (e.g., pharmaceutical manufacturing under FDA 21 CFR Part 11), users may implement electronic record-keeping through validated LIMS or ELN platforms that capture start/stop timestamps, operator ID, sieve stack configuration, and ambient environmental logs. Gilson provides comprehensive SOP templates aligned with USP , ISO 13320, and GMP Annex 11 guidelines for instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ), including vibration amplitude mapping, tap force verification, and timer accuracy testing protocols.

Applications

• Aggregate gradation testing in civil engineering laboratories (ASTM C136, AASHTO T 27)
• Pharmaceutical powder characterization for blend uniformity and dissolution rate prediction (USP , EP 2.9.32)
• Cement and mineral filler particle size profiling per ASTM C204 and ISO 9277
• Food ingredient consistency control—e.g., flour, sugar, and spice particle distribution
• Research-scale catalyst support screening and ceramic powder processing validation
• Environmental soil texture analysis (USDA textural triangle classification)

FAQ

Is the SS-30F Ro-Tap shaker compliant with ASTM E11 motion specifications?
Yes—the SS-30F reproduces the exact 278 ± 2 rpm oscillation and 150 ± 2 rpm tapping frequencies defined in ASTM E11 Section 6.2.1, verified at time of manufacture using calibrated optical tachometry.
Can ISO 200 mm test sieves be used on the SS-30F?
Yes—the SS-30F accepts 200 mm (8-inch) diameter sieves conforming to ISO 3310-1, including those with stainless steel frames and woven wire mesh up to 500 µm aperture.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Annual inspection of cam follower lubrication, belt tension (if applicable), and electrical grounding continuity is recommended. Motor brushes require replacement only after ≥10,000 operating hours under typical QC usage.
Does the SS-30F support automated data export?
No native USB/Ethernet interface exists; however, the timer’s relay output enables integration with PLCs or PC-based DAQ systems for timestamped event logging.
Is anchoring to a lab bench mandatory?
Anchoring is strongly advised for all full-height sieve stacks (>3 sieves) to prevent lateral displacement and ensure motion fidelity—especially during extended runs exceeding 15 minutes.