Mary Ann SS-25 Rotary Laboratory Sifter (115V / 60Hz)

Overview

The Mary Ann SS-25 Rotary Laboratory Sifter is a precision-engineered, gravity-fed dry powder separation system designed for standardized particle size distribution analysis in quality control, R&D, and regulatory-compliant testing environments. Operating on the principle of combined rotational motion and controlled tapping—often referred to as “rotary-tap sieving”—the SS-25 replicates the mechanical energy input specified in ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786> for sieve analysis of granular and powdered materials. Its patented 45° inclined rotating drum architecture ensures uniform material presentation across stacked test sieves without clamping mechanisms, enabling rapid setup of multi-sieve columns up to 660 mm (26 in) in height. The unit integrates a cast aluminum hammer assembly with hardwood-finished impact surfaces, delivering reproducible tap frequency and amplitude essential for method consistency across laboratories.

Key Features

• Clamp-free sieve stack mounting: Accepts standard ASTM/ISO-compliant test sieves with 203 mm (8 in) or 305 mm (12 in) diameters, accommodating up to 10 × 8-in or 6 × 12-in sieves at full height (660 mm)
• Precision digital timer: 99-minute programmable duration with ±1-second accuracy, supporting GLP-aligned test protocol documentation
• Dual-motion drive system: Synchronized rotation (at fixed RPM per ASTM E11 Annex A3) and vertical tapping action generated by eccentrically mounted hardwood-faced hammers
• Modular cabinet design: Fully enclosed front access door configurable for left- or right-hinged installation to accommodate lab layout constraints
• Integrated support frame: Functions simultaneously as operational base and dedicated sieve storage rack, minimizing footprint and improving workflow ergonomics
• Electrical configuration: Factory-configured for 115 V AC / 60 Hz operation (SS-25); optional 220 V AC / 50 Hz variant available (SS-25F)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SS-25 is validated for use with free-flowing, non-cohesive, and moderately cohesive dry particulates across a nominal particle size range of 4.75 mm (No. 4 sieve) down to 20 µm (No. 635 sieve), consistent with ASTM E11 Table 1 and ISO 3310-1 nominal aperture tolerances. It supports compliance-critical workflows under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated electronic lab notebook (ELN) or LIMS systems that capture timestamped timer start/stop events and operator ID. All structural components—including the hammer assembly, drum housing, and support frame—are constructed from corrosion-resistant cast aluminum and finished with durable hardwood veneer for long-term dimensional stability and minimal static charge accumulation.

Software & Data Management

While the SS-25 operates as a standalone electromechanical instrument with no embedded microprocessor or onboard data logging, its timer output signal (TTL-compatible pulse upon cycle completion) can be interfaced with external PLCs, SCADA systems, or PC-based acquisition software for automated test logging. For regulated environments, users commonly integrate the sifter into validated SOPs where timer settings, sieve stack configuration (including serial numbers and calibration dates), and operator entries are recorded manually or via barcode-scanned checklists in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 and GMP Annex 11 requirements. Optional third-party software packages support audit trail generation, user access control, and electronic signature capture for full 21 CFR Part 11 alignment.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical granulation and blend uniformity assessment per USP <786> and ICH Q5A
• Cement, mineral, and ceramic powder fineness verification per ASTM C114, C184, and ISO 9276-2
• Food ingredient particle grading (e.g., flour, sugar, spices) aligned with AOAC 991.21 and Codex Alimentarius standards
• Chemical catalyst and pigment particle distribution profiling prior to reactor loading or formulation
• Geotechnical soil gradation analysis per ASTM D6913 and AASHTO T 27
• Quality release testing of metal powders for additive manufacturing (ASTM F3049)

FAQ

What sieve diameters and maximum stack heights does the SS-25 support?
The SS-25 accommodates standard 203 mm (8 in) and 305 mm (12 in) diameter test sieves, with a maximum stack height of 660 mm (26 in). At full height, it holds up to 10 × 8-in sieves or 6 × 12-in sieves.
Is the SS-25 compliant with ASTM E11 and ISO 3310-1?
Yes—the mechanical motion profile, sieve mounting geometry, and timing accuracy meet the performance criteria defined in ASTM E11 Annex A3 and ISO 3310-1 Clause 6 for rotary-tap sieving equipment.
Does the unit include test sieves?
No—test sieves must be ordered separately. The SS-25 is compatible with all commercially available ASTM- or ISO-certified sieves in 8-in or 12-in frames, including stainless steel, brass, and nylon mesh options.
Can the SS-25 be validated for GMP environments?
Yes—its mechanical design, timer repeatability (±1 sec), and stable motion parameters enable IQ/OQ/PQ validation per ASTM E2500 and ISPE GAMP 5. Full validation requires documented calibration of timer accuracy, tap amplitude measurement, and rotational speed verification using traceable metrology tools.
What is the shipping weight and footprint of the SS-25?
Unit dimensions are 457 mm W × 660 mm D × 1,473 mm H (18 in × 26 in × 58 in); net shipping weight is 71.7 kg (158 lb). The support frame adds no additional floor space beyond the base footprint.