Gilson SS-8R Tapping Sieve Shaker
| Origin | USA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | SS-8R |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Gilson SS-8R Tapping Sieve Shaker is a precision-engineered mechanical sieving instrument designed for standardized particle size distribution analysis of dry, free-flowing granular materials. It operates on the principle of controlled vertical tapping combined with horizontal rotational motion—specifically engineered to comply with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786> sieving protocols. Unlike conventional linear shakers that induce particle stratification or dead zones, the SS-8R employs Gilson’s proprietary cyclic rotation mechanism: a continuous 360° orbital motion coupled with synchronized vertical tapping at 48 taps per minute. This dual-motion profile ensures uniform particle reorientation, maximizes exposure of near-size particles to sieve apertures, and minimizes blinding or clogging—critical for reproducible results in QC laboratories, aggregate testing facilities, pharmaceutical R&D, and geotechnical labs.
Key Features
- Patented EZ-Clamp system: One-handed, tool-free clamping via spring-loaded lever and twist-lock knob—secures stacked sieves (up to 20 × 8 in. half-height or 10 × full-height) with consistent axial force and zero slippage during operation.
- Balanced dynamic drive assembly: Precision-machined counterweights and low-vibration motor mount ensure stable, non-resonant operation on standard lab benches—no anchoring or concrete foundation required.
- Digital programmable timer: Microprocessor-controlled interface with push-button start, auto-reset, and adjustable test duration from 1 second to 99 minutes 59 seconds—calibrated to ±0.5% accuracy across full range.
- Heavy-duty 1/3 HP induction motor: Thermally protected, continuous-duty motor housed in powder-coated steel frame; compatible with both 115 V / 60 Hz and 230 V / 50 Hz mains supply (SS-8RF variant).
- Optimized motion profile: 48 vertical taps/min + 270° orbital rotation per cycle—validated to achieve >95% sieve efficiency for particles between 25 mm and 20 µm (1 in. to No. 635), per ASTM D6913 and ISO 13320 Annex B guidelines.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SS-8R accommodates standard 8-inch (203 mm) diameter test sieves—including ASTM E11-compliant brass, stainless steel, and nylon mesh frames, as well as ISO 3310-1 200 mm sieves when used with optional adapter kits (e.g., SSA-805R acoustic enclosure includes ISO-compatible mounting interface). It supports half-height, full-height, and nested sieve configurations. Material compatibility spans soils, crushed aggregates, catalysts, powdered APIs, metal powders, and ceramic granules—provided samples are non-cohesive, non-fibrous, and moisture content remains below 2% w/w. The unit meets CE marking requirements for machinery safety (2006/42/EC) and electromagnetic compatibility (2014/30/EU). Routine operation aligns with GLP documentation standards, supporting audit-ready test logs when paired with Gilson’s optional data export module.
Software & Data Management
While the SS-8R operates as a standalone electromechanical device without embedded software, its digital timer outputs TTL-level pulse signals compatible with external data acquisition systems (e.g., LabVIEW, MATLAB, or LIMS interfaces) via optional I/O expansion port. Test parameters—including start time, duration, tap count, and operator ID—can be logged manually into electronic lab notebooks (ELN) compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when using validated entry workflows. Gilson provides traceable calibration certificates (NIST-traceable stopwatch verification) and maintenance logs aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 internal audit requirements.
Applications
- Soil gradation analysis per ASTM D6913 and AASHTO T 27 for highway construction QA/QC.
- Pharmaceutical granule sizing prior to tablet compression, per USP <786> and ICH Q5A.
- Quality control of abrasive media, foundry sands, and refractory powders per ISO 6274 and EN 933-1.
- Research-scale particle breakage studies requiring high repeatability across multi-sieve stacks.
- Validation of laser diffraction or dynamic image analysis results through orthogonal mechanical sieving.
FAQ
What sieve diameters and heights does the SS-8R support?
The SS-8R accepts standard 8-inch (203 mm) test sieves in half-height (25 mm), intermediate-height (50 mm), and full-height (75 mm) configurations. With the optional SSA-805R adapter kit, it also supports 200 mm ISO sieves.
Is the SS-8R suitable for wet sieving?
No—this model is strictly for dry-sieving applications. For wet sieving, Gilson offers the SS-8W series with integrated water manifold and corrosion-resistant housing.
Can test data be exported electronically?
The base SS-8R lacks USB or Ethernet connectivity; however, its timer pulse output enables integration with third-party DAQ systems for automated timestamped logging.
What maintenance is required for long-term accuracy?
Annual verification of tap frequency (±1 tap/min tolerance) and rotational amplitude (±2°) using Gilson’s Calibration Kit CK-SS is recommended. Motor brushes require replacement only after ≥10,000 operational hours.
Does the unit include test sieves or collection pans?
No—sieves, receiver pans, and covers are sold separately. Gilson offers ASTM E11-certified brass and stainless steel sieve sets, as well as NIST-traceable calibration standards (e.g., SRM 1977).

