Retsch AS200 Digital Vibratory Sieve Shaker
| Brand | Retsch |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | AS200 Digital |
| Measurement Range | 20 µm – 25 mm |
| Max. Sample Load | 3 kg |
| Max. Sieve Stack Mass | 6 kg |
| Sieve Diameter Options | 100 mm / 150 mm / 200 mm / 203 mm (8") |
| Sieve Stack Height | up to ~450 mm |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 400 × 230 × 350 mm |
| Net Weight | ~30 kg |
| Drive Type | Electromagnetic, 3D oscillation |
| Programmable Methods | 9 stored parameter sets |
| Compliance | CE, DIN EN ISO 9000 series, GLP-ready |
Overview
The Retsch AS200 Digital Vibratory Sieve Shaker is an electromagnetically driven laboratory sieve shaker engineered for precise, reproducible dry and wet particle size analysis of powders, granules, and bulk solids. Based on Retsch’s patented electromagnetic drive technology (EP 0642844), the AS200 generates a controlled, three-dimensional oscillatory motion—combining vertical lift, horizontal displacement, and rotational shear—to ensure uniform sample distribution across the entire sieve surface. This kinematic profile minimizes particle segregation, prevents blinding, and maximizes sieving efficiency—particularly for challenging materials such as agglomerated powders, fibrous particles, or cohesive fine fractions. Designed for routine QC laboratories, R&D facilities, and accredited testing centers, the AS200 Digital variant delivers digital time and amplitude control with real-time display, supporting standardized particle size distribution (PSD) determination in accordance with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, ISO 2591-1, and DIN 66165.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic 3D oscillation drive ensures high-energy, low-noise operation with minimal mechanical wear and zero lubrication requirements
- Digital interface with intuitive push-button controls and LED display for precise setting of amplitude (0–3 mm), time (0.1–99.9 min), and pause intervals
- Programmable memory for up to nine user-defined sieving methods—enabling rapid method recall and inter-laboratory comparability
- Universal sieve holder accommodates standard analytical sieves with diameters of 100 mm, 150 mm, 200 mm, and 203 mm (8″), supporting both ISO and ASTM sieve series
- Robust aluminum housing and vibration-damped base provide stable operation under full load (up to 6 kg total stack mass)
- Ergonomic tilt-angle design (15° forward inclination) reduces operator fatigue during manual sieve loading/unloading and visual inspection
- CE-marked and manufactured in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9000 quality management standards; fully compatible with GLP and GMP documentation workflows
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AS200 Digital handles a broad spectrum of industrial and research-grade particulate materials—including metal powders, pharmaceutical granules, mineral ores, agricultural seeds, cement clinker, polymer resins, catalysts, and soil aggregates. Its 20 µm – 25 mm dynamic range supports both fine-powder classification (e.g., API excipients per USP ) and coarse aggregate sizing (e.g., ASTM C136). The instrument meets essential regulatory prerequisites for validated particle size testing: traceable amplitude calibration, auditable parameter logging (via optional RS232/USB output on AS200 Control), and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation practices. When paired with certified Retsch test sieves (ISO 3310-1, ASTM E11 compliant), results satisfy requirements for ISO 13320-compliant reporting and FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned electronic records when integrated into validated LIMS environments.
Software & Data Management
While the AS200 Digital operates as a standalone unit, its parameter structure aligns directly with Retsch’s proprietary *Sieva* software suite (used with AS200 Control models) for advanced method development, data export (CSV, PDF), and audit trail generation. All digital settings—including amplitude, duration, and sequence—are retained in non-volatile memory and can be cross-referenced against physical logbooks or ELN entries. For laboratories requiring full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, the AS200 Control configuration enables user-level access control, electronic signatures, and immutable method history tracking—ensuring data integrity throughout the analytical lifecycle.
Applications
- Quality control of raw materials and final products in chemical, food, and pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Particle size distribution profiling for additive manufacturing feedstocks (e.g., Ti-6Al-4V, Inconel 718 powders)
- Soil texture analysis per USDA and ASTM D422 protocols
- Grading of construction aggregates, foundry sands, and refractory ceramics
- Validation of milling and micronization processes in solid dosage form development
- Research-scale fractionation of nanocomposites, battery cathode precursors, and catalyst supports
FAQ
What sieve diameters are supported by the AS200 Digital?
Standard analytical sieves with diameters of 100 mm, 150 mm, 200 mm, and 203 mm (8 inches) are fully compatible.
Is amplitude adjustable—and how is it calibrated?
Yes—amplitude is digitally adjustable from 0 to 3 mm in 0.1-mm increments; factory calibration is traceable to national metrology institutes and documented in the certificate of conformity.
Can the AS200 Digital be integrated into a networked QA/QC system?
Direct network integration requires the AS200 Control model with RS232/USB and Sieva software; however, AS200 Digital parameters can be manually logged and synchronized with LIMS via standardized CSV templates.
Does the instrument comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements?
Standalone AS200 Digital does not include electronic signature or audit trail functionality; full Part 11 compliance is achieved only with AS200 Control + Sieva software under validated operational conditions.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?
No routine lubrication or belt replacement is needed—the electromagnetic drive is maintenance-free; periodic verification of amplitude accuracy and leveling of the base plate is recommended every 6–12 months.
