RETSCH AS 450 CONTROL 3D Electromagnetic Sieve Shaker
| Brand | RETSCH |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | AS 450 CONTROL |
| Principle | Electromagnetic 3D Tossing Sieving |
| Measurement Range | 25 µm – 125 mm |
| Max. Sample Load | 25 kg |
| Max. Sieve Stack Height | 13 sieves (min. 3) |
| Amplitude | 2.2 mm (CET-controlled) |
| Drive Type | Electromagnetic, digitally regulated |
| Compliance | ISO 9001-compliant measurement equipment |
| SOP Storage | 9 programmable methods |
| Interface | RS232 (optional EasySieve software) |
Overview
The RETSCH AS 450 CONTROL is a high-precision, digitally controlled electromagnetic sieve shaker engineered for reproducible, standardized particle size distribution analysis in R&D laboratories and quality control environments. It operates on the principle of 3D tossing motion — a proprietary three-dimensional oscillatory movement generated by a precisely regulated electromagnetic drive system. Unlike conventional rotary or horizontal vibratory shakers, the AS 450 CONTROL imparts vertical lift, lateral displacement, and rotational dispersion simultaneously, ensuring uniform sample exposure across the entire sieve surface. This motion minimizes particle stratification, prevents blinding of fine-mesh screens, and significantly enhances separation efficiency — especially for challenging materials such as agglomerated powders, fibrous substances, or irregularly shaped granules. Designed specifically for 400 mm and 450 mm diameter analytical sieves (ISO 3310-1 / ASTM E11), it supports both dry and wet sieving protocols under fully adjustable operational parameters.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic 3D tossing drive with CET (Controlled Excitation Technology) — maintains consistent 2.2 mm amplitude even at maximum 25 kg load, eliminating amplitude decay during extended runs
- Fully digital parameter control: sieving time (1 s – 99 min 59 s), amplitude (0–2.2 mm in 0.1 mm increments), and pause intervals between cycles
- Integrated operator panel with intuitive navigation, real-time status display, and tactile feedback; detachable for ergonomic positioning
- Programmable storage for up to 9 standardized operating procedures (SOPs), each with unique time/amplitude/interval settings and user-defined naming
- Robust stainless-steel frame with vibration-dampening feet; IP54-rated housing for dust and splash resistance
- No mechanical wear components — electromagnetic actuation eliminates belts, cams, or eccentric shafts, resulting in zero maintenance requirements over service life
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AS 450 CONTROL accommodates a broad spectrum of particulate materials, including pharmaceutical granules, metal powders, mineral ores, food ingredients, catalysts, and ceramic precursors. Its 3D motion enables effective separation of particles ranging from ultrafine 25 µm fractions to coarse aggregates up to 125 mm — making it suitable for both fine-powder characterization and bulk material grading. The instrument complies with ISO 9001 requirements for calibrated measurement equipment and supports GLP/GMP-aligned workflows through traceable parameter logging and SOP-based operation. When used with certified reference sieves (traceable to NIST or PTB standards), results are compatible with ISO 2591-1, ISO 9276-2, and ASTM C136/C702 test methods. Optional wet sieving kits include sealed sieve holders and drainage trays conforming to ISO 11277.
Software & Data Management
The AS 450 CONTROL integrates seamlessly with RETSCH’s EasySieve software via RS232 serial interface. EasySieve provides full remote control, automated method execution, real-time monitoring of amplitude and elapsed time, and export of raw sieving data (mass retained per sieve level) in CSV or Excel-compatible formats. All executed runs are timestamped and logged with operator ID, method name, and parameter configuration — supporting audit trails required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with appropriate electronic signature and access control configurations. Data can be imported into LIMS or statistical process control (SPC) platforms for trend analysis, capability studies (e.g., Cpk), and batch release documentation.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical QC: Granule size distribution prior to tablet compression; excipient classification per USP & Ph. Eur. monographs
- Materials Science: Particle sizing of additive manufacturing feedstocks (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V, Inconel 718) to ensure flowability and packing density
- Mining & Geology: Sieve analysis of crushed ore samples for liberation studies and mill circuit optimization
- Food Industry: Flour fineness testing, sugar crystal grading, and spice particle homogeneity verification
- Construction Materials: Aggregate gradation testing per EN 933-1 and ASTM D6913 for concrete mix design validation
- Research Labs: Method development for multi-stage fractionation, sieve calibration verification, and comparative screening studies
FAQ
What sieve diameters is the AS 450 CONTROL compatible with?
It is designed exclusively for standard 400 mm and 450 mm diameter analytical sieves complying with ISO 3310-1 and ASTM E11 specifications.
Can the AS 450 CONTROL perform wet sieving without modification?
Yes — wet sieving is supported using optional accessories including sealed sieve stack clamps, water-resistant gaskets, and integrated drainage trays.
Is amplitude affected by sample mass?
No — CET technology actively regulates electromagnetic force output to maintain constant 2.2 mm amplitude across the full 0–25 kg load range.
How many sieve levels can be stacked simultaneously?
Up to 13 sieves (including top lid and bottom pan); minimum recommended stack height is 3 sieves for stable operation.
Does the instrument require periodic calibration or servicing?
No scheduled calibration or mechanical maintenance is required; the electromagnetic drive has no consumable parts and retains factory calibration indefinitely under normal use conditions.
