Dust Generator
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Dust Generator |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Dust Generator is a precision-engineered aerosol generation system designed for controlled, repeatable dispersion of solid particulate materials into an air stream. It operates on the principle of fluidized bed or rotating brush dispersion—depending on configuration—to produce stable, monodisperse or polydisperse aerosols with defined mass concentration, particle size distribution (typically 0.5–10 µm aerodynamic diameter), and temporal stability. This instrument serves as a critical upstream component in inhalation toxicology studies, filter efficiency testing (e.g., ISO 16890, EN 1822), calibration of optical particle counters and laser diffraction spectrometers (e.g., Malvern Mastersizer), and flow visualization via particle image velocimetry (PIV) seeding. Its robust architecture supports integration into exposure chambers—including whole-body or nose-only systems compliant with OECD TG 412 and ASTM E1738—and enables precise dosimetry control essential for GLP-regulated respiratory hazard assessment.
Key Features
- Adjustable aerosol output rate (0.1–100 mg/min) via programmable feed mechanism and carrier gas flow regulation (0.5–30 L/min, N₂ or filtered air)
- Interchangeable dispersion modules: fluidized bed for fine powders (e.g., TiO₂, SiO₂, lactose), rotating brush for cohesive or fibrous materials (e.g., cellulose, asbestos analogs)
- Integrated real-time monitoring ports for upstream/downstream particle concentration (via TSI CPC or optical sensor interface)
- Temperature- and humidity-controlled inlet gas conditioning (optional) to maintain consistent aerosol stability under varying environmental conditions
- Modular design compatible with ISO-standard exposure chambers (e.g., 0.1–2 m³ volume), HEPA-filtered exhaust, and gravimetric or cascade impactor sampling trains
- CE-marked electrical safety compliance; all wetted parts constructed from 316 stainless steel and PTFE to prevent contamination and ensure chemical resistance
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Dust Generator accommodates a broad range of dry, free-flowing or moderately cohesive powders—including metal oxides (Fe₂O₃, ZnO), pharmaceutical excipients (mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose), engineered nanomaterials (CeO₂, carbon black), and biological surrogates (Bacillus atrophaeus spores, lyophilized proteins). It supports OECD Test Guideline 412 (Subacute Inhalation Toxicity), ISO 16890 (Air Filter Classification), and ASTM D1215 (Aerosol Generation for Filter Testing). When operated within validated SOPs, it meets requirements for Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) audits and supports data traceability per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with compliant data acquisition software.
Software & Data Management
The system integrates with third-party DAQ platforms (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB, or custom Python-based controllers) via analog I/O (0–10 V, 4–20 mA) and RS-485/Modbus RTU protocols. Optional embedded touchscreen controller provides local setpoint adjustment, runtime logging (timestamped mass flow, pressure drop, feed motor RPM), and alarm-triggered shutdown (e.g., clog detection, overpressure). All operational parameters are exportable as CSV or HDF5 files for downstream statistical analysis (e.g., ANOVA of deposition efficiency across filter grades) and regulatory submission packages.
Applications
- Inhalation toxicology: generation of standardized challenge aerosols for rodent or non-human primate exposure studies
- Air filtration validation: quantitative assessment of MERV, HEPA, and ULPA filter performance against ISO 16890 synthetic dust mixtures
- Instrument calibration: provision of traceable, metrologically characterized aerosols for OPC, APS, and laser diffraction systems
- CFD model verification: delivery of neutrally buoyant tracer particles for validation of computational airflow simulations in ventilation ducts or exposure chambers
- Nanomaterial safety testing: controlled dispersion of agglomerated nanoparticles under inert atmosphere to minimize oxidation artifacts
FAQ
What particle size distributions can this generator produce?
It delivers aerosols with count median diameters (CMD) ranging from 0.5 µm to 10 µm, depending on powder morphology, dispersion energy, and carrier gas velocity—validated using SMPS or APS measurement.
Is the system suitable for use with hazardous or pyrophoric materials?
Yes, when configured with inert gas purging (N₂ or Ar), explosion-proof motor options, and grounded conductive pathways—fully compliant with ATEX Zone 21 requirements.
Can it be integrated into an existing nose-only exposure system?
Absolutely; standard 1/2″–2″ NPT and ISO-KF flange interfaces enable direct coupling to most commercial rodent exposure platforms, including CH Technologies and Inhalation Sciences models.
Does it support automated, unattended operation for multi-day studies?
Yes—when paired with a programmable logic controller (PLC) and redundant feed hopper, it sustains stable output for up to 72 hours without manual intervention.
Are calibration certificates available for metrological traceability?
NIST-traceable gravimetric calibration reports (mass concentration, flow rate) are provided upon request, aligned with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory procedures.
