Drick DRK-P501 Real-Time Spray Droplet Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer
| Brand | Drick |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shandong, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Regional Classification | Domestic (China) |
| Model | DRK-P501 |
| Pricing | USD 28,000 (FOB Qingdao) |
| Dispersion Method | Wet Dispersion |
| Instrument Type | Laboratory Laser Diffraction Analyzer |
| Measurement Range | 0.1 µm – 1200 µm, Full-Range Single-Mode Operation |
Overview
The Drick DRK-P501 is a laboratory-grade laser diffraction particle size analyzer engineered for real-time, in-situ measurement of spray droplet size distribution. It employs Fraunhofer diffraction and Mie scattering theory—configured via dual-optical-path alignment—to quantify droplet diameters across the full dynamic range of 0.1 µm to 1200 µm without mechanical range switching or optical reconfiguration. Unlike conventional static suspension analyzers, the DRK-P501 integrates a high-speed sampling interface compatible with pressurized spray nozzles, atomizers, and pneumatic nebulizers, enabling continuous monitoring of transient aerosol plumes under operational conditions. Its optical design conforms to ISO 13320:2020 guidelines for laser diffraction particle sizing, supporting both volumetric and number-based distribution outputs (D10, D50, D90, span, relative width). The system is calibrated using NIST-traceable polystyrene latex (PSL) standards and validated against reference sprays per ASTM E2867–22 (Standard Practice for Characterizing Aerosol Sprays).
Key Features
- Real-time droplet analysis at up to 10 Hz acquisition rate, synchronized with trigger inputs from external spray controllers or pressure transducers
- Integrated wet dispersion module with adjustable flow rate (0.1–3.0 L/min), recirculating pump, and ultrasonic deagglomeration (40 kHz)
- Single-mode full-range measurement: no manual range selection or lens swapping required—ensures continuity and reproducibility across submicron to coarse droplet regimes
- High-sensitivity dual-laser optical system (638 nm red diode + 405 nm violet diode) optimized for low-concentration spray plumes and high-refractive-index liquids (e.g., glycerol-water, ethanol-based formulations)
- Ruggedized IP54-rated enclosure with temperature-stabilized detector array (±0.1 °C control) to minimize thermal drift during extended operation
- Compliance-ready architecture: supports audit trails, user-level access control, and electronic signature workflows aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 requirements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The DRK-P501 accommodates aqueous, organic, and emulsified spray formulations—including pharmaceutical inhalation suspensions, agricultural adjuvants, fuel injector mists, and cosmetic mists—without requiring dilution or solvent exchange. Its wet dispersion path maintains sample integrity through laminar flow geometry and low-shear pumping, minimizing artificial breakup or coalescence artifacts. All calibration and validation procedures follow ISO/IEC 17025:2017 principles. The instrument meets CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61326-1) and safety (EN 61010-1). Optional IQ/OQ documentation packages are available for GLP and GMP-regulated environments.
Software & Data Management
Equipped with Drick ParticleSight™ v4.2 software, the DRK-P501 delivers intuitive workflow-driven analysis: automated background subtraction, multi-angle scattering correction, and real-time histogram overlay with statistical trend tracking. Raw scattering data (intensity vs. angle) is stored in HDF5 format for third-party processing (e.g., MATLAB, Python SciPy). The software supports export to CSV, PDF, and XML formats compliant with LIMS integration protocols (ASTM E1482, ASTM E2500). Audit trail logs record all parameter changes, calibration events, and user actions with timestamps and operator IDs—retained for ≥36 months per configurable retention policy.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical development: Quantitative assessment of metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and dry powder inhaler (DPI) aerosol plume geometry and fine particle fraction (FPF)
- Agricultural R&D: Optimization of nozzle design and formulation viscosity for pesticide droplet deposition efficiency and drift mitigation
- Automotive engineering: Characterization of fuel injector spray cone angle, Sauter mean diameter (SMD), and droplet velocity correlation
- Coating & inkjet technology: Validation of jetting stability, satellite droplet formation, and polydispersity index (PDI) in functional fluid delivery systems
- Academic aerosol science: Time-resolved studies of evaporation-induced size shift, coalescence dynamics, and environmental humidity effects on spray morphology
FAQ
Does the DRK-P501 support dry powder measurement?
No—it is specifically configured for liquid-phase spray analysis using wet dispersion; dry powder applications require a separate optical configuration not included in this model.
Can the system be integrated into an automated production line?
Yes, via Ethernet/IP or Modbus TCP interfaces; programmable logic controller (PLC) synchronization and alarm-triggered data capture are supported through the optional Industrial Communication Module.
What maintenance is required for long-term accuracy?
Annual verification with PSL standards is recommended; optical window cleaning and pump tubing replacement every 6 months under continuous use.
Is remote diagnostics supported?
Yes—secure TLS-encrypted remote access is enabled via Drick’s CloudConnect portal, allowing authorized service engineers to perform firmware updates and diagnostic checks with customer consent.
Does the software comply with 21 CFR Part 11?
Yes—when deployed with Windows domain authentication, electronic signatures, and enabled audit trail logging, it satisfies predicate rule requirements for regulated submissions.
