Gilson SS-20F Rotary Sifter
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | SS-20F |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Gilson SS-20F Rotary Sifter is a precision-engineered, heavy-duty laboratory sieve shaker designed for standardized particle size distribution analysis in accordance with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786>. Operating on the principle of rotary motion combined with controlled tapping action, the SS-20F delivers reproducible, high-fidelity sieving performance for dry granular and powdered materials. Its dual-motion mechanism—continuous rotation of the sieve stack coupled with synchronized tapping via UHMW polyethylene hammers—enhances particle stratification and promotes efficient separation across a broad range of particle sizes (25 mm down to 20 µm). Designed for compliance-driven environments including QC laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing, aggregate testing, and R&D facilities, the SS-20F integrates ergonomic operation, dust containment, and robust mechanical architecture to support GLP/GMP-aligned workflows.
Key Features
- 230 V / 50 Hz motor configuration optimized for international laboratory power standards, featuring a continuous-duty 1/4 HP induction motor with thermal overload protection
- Patented clamp-free sieve stack retention system: pre-assembled stacks are seated and secured by gravity and rotational inertia—no manual clamping required
- Ergonomic side-mounted rotary knob enables smooth, low-effort cabinet rotation between loading and test positions
- Dual stainless-steel drive rollers with rubberized surfaces ensure consistent, non-slip rotation of sieve stacks up to 20 × 8-inch half-height or 6 × 12-inch full-height configurations
- Integrated tapping mechanism with 6061 aluminum hammer assembly and UHMW-PE impact heads provides repeatable kinetic energy transfer without metal-on-metal wear
- Dust-tight enclosed cabinet constructed from impact-resistant MDF with powder-coated ASTM A513 steel frame minimizes airborne particulate release and acoustic emissions
- Large 0.5-inch (12.7 mm) LED display with ±1-second timing accuracy supports countdown operation from 1 second to 99 minutes; includes pause/resume functionality and audible 5-second completion alert
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SS-20F accommodates standard ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1 compliant test sieves in multiple frame dimensions—including 8-inch (203 mm) and 12-inch (305 mm) diameters—with options for full-height, half-height, and intermediate-height configurations. It supports both woven wire and perforated plate sieves across nominal aperture sizes ranging from 25 mm (No. 1) to 20 µm (No. 635). The unit’s mechanical design and operational parameters meet requirements for routine validation under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories. Its sealed enclosure and traceable timing control facilitate adherence to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity expectations when paired with validated software interfaces.
Software & Data Management
While the SS-20F operates as a standalone electromechanical instrument, its digital timer module supports integration into laboratory information management systems (LIMS) via optional RS-232 or analog signal output modules (sold separately). All timing events—including start, pause, resume, and completion—are logged internally with timestamp resolution to the nearest second. When used in conjunction with Gilson’s SSA-76 Timer/Controller upgrade kit, the system enables programmable multi-stage protocols, audit trail generation, and exportable CSV-formatted run logs compatible with electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) and regulatory submission packages.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical granulation and blend uniformity assessment per USP <786> and ICH Q5A
- Soil and aggregate gradation testing per ASTM D6913 and AASHTO T 27
- Cement and fly ash fineness determination (ASTM C150, C618)
- Food ingredient particle sizing for texture, solubility, and flow behavior prediction
- Chemical catalyst and pigment particle distribution profiling
- Recycled construction material classification and specification verification
FAQ
What voltage and frequency does the SS-20F operate on?
The SS-20F is configured for 230 V AC, 50 Hz operation, making it suitable for use in EU, UK, Australia, and most Asian markets.
Can the SS-20F accommodate both ASTM and ISO standard sieves?
Yes—the unit accepts all commercially available 8-inch and 12-inch diameter test sieves conforming to ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1 dimensional tolerances and mounting specifications.
Is the tapping intensity adjustable?
No—the tapping force is mechanically fixed to ensure compliance with standardized test methods; variation would invalidate conformance to ASTM D6913 or ISO 13320.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Routine inspection of hammer head wear, drive roller surface integrity, and cabinet seal condition is recommended every 500 operating hours; replacement parts (e.g., SSA-74 hammer heads, SSA-12 tapper caps) are field-serviceable without tools.
Does the SS-20F include calibration documentation?
Each unit ships with a Certificate of Conformance referencing NIST-traceable timing verification and mechanical alignment checks performed at the point of manufacture.

