Gilson SS-8R and SS-12R Tapping Sieve Shakers

Overview

The Gilson SS-8R and SS-12R Tapping Sieve Shakers are precision-engineered laboratory instruments designed for standardized dry sieve analysis of granular materials in accordance with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and ISO 565. Unlike conventional linear or orbital shakers, these units employ a patented dual-axis tapping motion—vertical oscillation combined with controlled rotational indexing—to achieve high-efficiency particle stratification and aperture penetration. The mechanism delivers 48 precisely timed vertical taps per minute while simultaneously rotating the sieve stack through a defined angular increment. This cyclic rotation eliminates “dead zones” common in reciprocating shakers, ensuring uniform particle reorientation and consistent exposure of all fractions to the mesh surface. The result is statistically robust, repeatable particle size distribution (PSD) data critical for quality control in aggregates, pharmaceuticals, catalysts, soils, powders, and mineral processing applications.

Key Features

• Dual-Motion Sieving Mechanism: Vertical tapping (48 taps/min) + incremental rotation ensures continuous particle repositioning, maximizing contact with sieve apertures and minimizing segregation bias.
• EZ-Clamp Quick-Release System: Single-action twist knob actuates a synchronized clamping rod assembly that secures the full sieve stack—including cover, pans, and intermediate frames—with uniform pressure and zero slippage.
• Balanced Dynamic Architecture: Internally counterweighted drive system minimizes vibration transmission to the benchtop; no anchoring or permanent installation required.
• Precision Digital Controller: Push-button start, programmable test duration (00:01–99:59), automatic timer reset, and non-volatile memory retain settings across power cycles.
• Modular Sieve Compatibility: SS-8R accepts up to 20 × 8″ (203 mm) half-height or 10 × full-height sieves; SS-12R supports up to 6 × 12″ (305 mm) full-height sieves—or, via included adapter, 8″ (203 mm) or ISO 200 mm sieves—enabling cross-standard method alignment.
• Rugged Industrial Build: Heavy-gauge painted steel housing, 1/3 HP thermally protected induction motor, and sealed bearing assemblies ensure long-term operational stability under continuous QC lab use.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SS-8R and SS-12R are validated for dry-sieving applications across a broad spectrum of particulate materials—including crushed rock, sand, cement, metal powders, activated carbon, polymer granules, and milled APIs. Recommended nominal particle size ranges are 25 mm to 20 µm (SS-8R) and 50 mm to 20 µm (SS-12R), though actual effective range depends on material density, aspect ratio, and cohesiveness. Both models support standard ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1 test sieves in brass, stainless steel, or nylon mesh, with frame diameters from 3″ to 12″ and heights conforming to half-, intermediate-, or full-height specifications. Optional accessories—including the SSA-805R acoustic enclosure (reducing noise to <70 dBA) and N-STOR fraction collector—enhance compliance with occupational health (OSHA), environmental (EPA), and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) requirements.

Software & Data Management

While the SS-8R and SS-12R operate as standalone electromechanical instruments without embedded software, their deterministic timing architecture and mechanical repeatability support full integration into regulated environments. The digital timer’s fixed resolution (1-second increments) and auto-reset functionality provide auditable, timestamped test durations compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with external electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) or LIMS systems. All mechanical parameters—including tap frequency, rotation angle, and clamp force—are factory-calibrated and documented in the instrument’s Certificate of Conformance (CoC), which is traceable to NIST standards. Routine verification per ASTM D6913 or ISO 17892-4 requires only periodic calibration of timer accuracy and tap amplitude using certified reference gauges—no firmware updates or software validation protocols are necessary.

Applications

• Aggregate gradation testing per ASTM C136/C136M and AASHTO T 27 for concrete and asphalt specification compliance.
• Pharmaceutical powder flow characterization and excipient sizing per USP <786> and ICH Q5C guidelines.
• Soil particle-size analysis in geotechnical labs following ASTM D422 and ISO 14688-1.
• Quality assurance of catalyst pellets, battery electrode powders, and ceramic precursors in R&D and production environments.
• Validation of milling and classification processes in food, chemical, and metallurgical industries.
• Research-grade PSD profiling where reproducibility across operators and shifts is essential for statistical process control (SPC).

FAQ

What standards do the SS-8R and SS-12R comply with?
ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, ISO 565, and compatible with test methods in ASTM C136, D422, D6913, and ISO 14688-1.
Can the SS-12R accommodate both 8″ and 12″ sieves?
Yes—the SS-12R includes an adapter kit for 8″ (203 mm) or ISO 200 mm sieves; its native configuration supports 12″ (305 mm) frames.
Is operator training required to achieve repeatable results?
No—consistent outcomes rely on mechanical design and standardized procedures, not user technique; however, initial setup per Gilson’s Operator Manual is recommended.
How often does the unit require maintenance?
Annual inspection of motor brushes, tap linkage lubrication, and clamp rod alignment is advised; no scheduled calibration beyond timer verification every 6 months.
Does the EZ-Clamp system accommodate non-Gilson sieve brands?
Yes—it is dimensionally compatible with all ASTM/ISO-compliant 8″ and 12″ sieve frames meeting standard height tolerances (±0.5 mm).