Gilson SS-33 Ro-Tap® II Dual-Stack Sieve Shaker
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | SS-33 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Gilson SS-33 Ro-Tap® II Dual-Stack Sieve Shaker is a precision-engineered mechanical sieve shaker designed to perform standardized particle size distribution analysis in full compliance with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786> requirements. Unlike single-stack models, the SS-33 executes two independent 8-inch (203 mm) sieve stacks simultaneously—each replicating the identical Ro-Tap® motion profile: 278 horizontal circular oscillations and 150 vertical taps per minute. This dual-channel architecture enables parallel sample processing without cross-contamination or timing drift, significantly improving laboratory throughput while maintaining metrological equivalence to legacy Ro-Tap® protocols. The device employs a robust 1/4 HP induction motor with thermal overload protection, housed in a rigid steel frame engineered for long-term stability under continuous QC/QA operation. Its motion transmission system is calibrated to deliver repeatable amplitude and phase alignment across both stacks, ensuring inter-stack comparability required for method validation and GLP-compliant reporting.
Key Features
- Dual independent 8-inch (203 mm) sieve stack capability—enables simultaneous, identical Ro-Tap® motion on two separate sample trains
- Precise motion control: 278 oscillations/min + 150 taps/min per stack, traceable to ASTM E11 calibration standards
- Integrated digital timer with 0.1-second resolution and 99-minute maximum duration, supporting multi-step sieving protocols
- Quick-adjust sieve support plate with positive-lock mechanism for rapid configuration of full-height, half-height, or intermediate-height sieve assemblies
- Universal compatibility with W.S. Tyler® standard 8-inch frames—including ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP-certified test sieves (wire mesh, perforated plate, or electroformed)
- Heavy-duty steel enclosure with vibration-dampening feet; optional mounting kit available for benchtop anchoring to minimize resonance during extended runs
- Thermally protected 1/4 HP motor rated for continuous duty cycle operation in ambient laboratory environments (15–35°C)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SS-33 supports particle size analysis across a validated range of No. 4 to No. 635 (4.75 mm to 20 µm), accommodating dry, free-flowing powders, granules, and milled solids commonly encountered in pharmaceutical, mineral, chemical, and construction materials testing. It accepts all standard 8-inch diameter test sieves—including full-height (2.5-inch depth), half-height (1.25-inch), and intermediate-height configurations—as well as 200 mm ISO-compatible frames. The unit is routinely deployed in laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned workflows, where audit-trail-capable timers and consistent mechanical actuation are prerequisites for data integrity. Full documentation packages—including factory calibration certificates, ASTM-conformance statements, and electrical safety reports (UL 61010-1, CE marked)—are supplied with each unit.
Software & Data Management
While the SS-33 operates as a stand-alone electromechanical instrument, its deterministic motion profile and precise timing enable seamless integration into LIMS- and ELN-based workflows. Digital timer logs (via external USB data logger or manual entry) support traceable recordkeeping aligned with ALCOA+ principles. For labs requiring electronic records, Gilson recommends pairing the SS-33 with validated third-party data acquisition modules that capture start/stop timestamps, run duration, and operator ID—ensuring compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 and ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7. All firmware updates (if applicable) undergo version-controlled release cycles with associated change control documentation.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical granule and excipient sizing per USP <786> and Ph. Eur. 2.9.31
- Aggregate gradation testing in asphalt and concrete QA per ASTM C136/C136M
- Mineral ore classification and flotation feed characterization
- Catalyst and ceramic powder quality control in R&D and production environments
- Food ingredient particle uniformity verification (e.g., flour, sugar, dairy powders)
- Environmental soil and sediment grain-size distribution per ASTM D422 and D6913
FAQ
Does the SS-33 require periodic recalibration?
Yes—annual verification of tap frequency, oscillation count, and timer accuracy against NIST-traceable references is recommended per ISO/IEC 17025 and internal SOPs.
Can ISO 200 mm sieves be used interchangeably with ASTM 8-inch frames?
Yes, provided the frame thickness and clamping geometry match W.S. Tyler® specifications; adapter plates are available for non-standard mounts.
Is the SS-33 compatible with sound-dampening enclosures?
Yes—it fits within standard W.S. Tyler® Ro-Tap® acoustic cabinets (Model SC-1), reducing operational noise to ≤65 dBA at 1 m distance.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
Biannual inspection of drive linkage bushings, motor ventilation grilles, and timer contact integrity; no lubrication of the cam mechanism is required.
Can the dual stacks run different sieve sequences simultaneously?
No—the SS-33 synchronizes both stacks identically; independent program control requires two separate SS-30 units or automated sieve shaker systems with programmable logic controllers.
