Gilson SS-22 Silent Sifter® II Rotational Sieve Analyzer

Overview

The Gilson SS-22 Silent Sifter® II is a precision-engineered rotational sieve analyzer designed for standardized particle size distribution analysis in accordance with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786>. Unlike conventional rotary or vibratory sieving systems, the SS-22 employs a dual-mode motion profile—continuous rotation combined with controlled tapping—to optimize particle stratification and aperture penetration while minimizing mechanical energy transfer to surrounding environments. Its core architecture integrates acoustic-dampened enclosures, vibration-isolated drive trains, and UHMW-PE impact elements to achieve industry-leading noise suppression: 16–18 dB(A) lower than standard rotary sieves and 8–10 dB(A) quieter than the prior-generation SS-21 model. This reduction directly supports OSHA-compliant laboratory environments and aligns with occupational health requirements for prolonged operator exposure (29 CFR 1910.95). The system operates on a robust 1/4 HP continuous-duty motor (115 V / 60 Hz, 4.7 A), delivering stable torque across variable load conditions without thermal derating.

Key Features

• Acoustically optimized cabinet with over-center lever latch and compression gasket seal for dust-tight, low-noise operation (≤62 dB[A] at 1 m)
• Dual-motion drive system: synchronized rotation + programmable tapping via two rubber-coated stainless steel rollers
• Large, high-contrast 0.5-inch (12.7 mm) LED display with ±1-second timing accuracy and 99-minute countdown capability
• Ergonomic rotary knob interface eliminates clamping hardware—stacks load and lock in seconds
• Modular sieve compatibility: accepts ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1 frames in 200 mm (8″) and 300 mm (12″) diameters, full-height or half-height configurations
• UHMW-PE hammer head mounted on 6061-T6 aluminum shank for consistent impact energy and wear resistance
• Heavy-gauge powder-coated ASTM A513 steel frame with locking casters for safe relocation and stable benchtop deployment
• Enclosed design limits airborne particulate dispersion—critical for handling respirable crystalline silica (RCS), quartz, or other hazardous fine powders

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SS-22 accommodates dry, free-flowing granular materials across a validated particle size range of 25 mm down to 20 µm (1 inch to No. 635 sieve). It supports both single-layer and multi-tiered stack configurations—including up to 20 half-height 8″ sieves or 6 full-height 12″ sieves—enabling method flexibility per ASTM C136/C136M (coarse aggregates), ASTM D6913 (soils), or ISO 13320 (laser diffraction correlation validation). All structural components comply with UL 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment. The sealed cabinet meets NIOSH-recommended engineering controls for RCS exposure mitigation and supports GLP-compliant documentation when paired with audit-trail-capable software (e.g., Gilson SifterLink™).

Software & Data Management

While the SS-22 operates as a standalone instrument with embedded digital control logic, it is fully compatible with Gilson’s optional SifterLink™ PC software suite (sold separately). SifterLink™ enables automated test sequence programming, real-time parameter logging (time, tap frequency, rotation speed), electronic signature capture, and export to CSV or PDF formats compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. Audit trail functionality records all user actions—including timer adjustments, start/stop events, and configuration changes—with timestamped metadata. Data files are structured for direct import into LIMS platforms or statistical process control (SPC) tools such as Minitab or JMP.

Applications

• Quality control of pharmaceutical excipients and active ingredients per USP <786> and EP 2.9.31
• Aggregate gradation testing in civil engineering laboratories (ASTM C136, AASHTO T 27)
• Mineral processing and metallurgical feed characterization (ISO 8501-1)
• Food powder consistency verification (e.g., flour, sugar, dairy powders)
• Environmental soil and sediment analysis (EPA Method 1695)
• Validation of laser diffraction or dynamic image analysis results through orthogonal sieving

FAQ

What voltage options are available for the SS-22?
The SS-22 is offered in two configurations: SS-22 (115 V / 60 Hz, 4.7 A) for North American and Japanese markets, and SS-22F (230 V / 50 Hz, 5.4 A) for EU, UK, and APAC regions.
Can the SS-22 be integrated into an existing LIMS environment?
Yes—when used with SifterLink™ software and optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface, raw test data and metadata can be exported in structured formats compatible with major LIMS vendors.
Does the SS-22 require calibration certification?
Per ASTM E323 and ISO/IEC 17025, users must perform periodic verification using certified reference standards (e.g., NIST-traceable glass beads or calibrated sieve sets); Gilson provides a Certificate of Conformance with each unit.
Is the cabinet door interlocked for safety compliance?
Yes—the over-center latch mechanism disables motor operation when the door is not fully closed and sealed, satisfying IEC 61000-6-2 EMC and EN 61010-1 mechanical safety requirements.
What sieve frame sizes and materials are supported?
Standard compatibility includes brass, stainless steel, and nickel-plated ASTM E11 frames (8″ and 12″), plus ISO 3310-1 frames (200 mm and 300 mm); custom frame heights (full, half, intermediate) are supported without adapter kits.