W.S. Tyler Ro-Tap RX-29 Advanced Sieve Shaker

Overview

The W.S. Tyler Ro-Tap RX-29 is a precision-engineered mechanical sieve shaker designed to replicate standardized manual sieving protocols through synchronized rotational and vertical tapping motion. Operating on the principle of combined horizontal orbital rotation and vertical impact—mimicking the hand-sieving technique codified in ASTM E11-09 and ISO 3310-1—the RX-29 delivers high reproducibility in particle size distribution (PSD) analysis across diverse bulk solid materials. Its robust cast-iron frame, fully enclosed 1/4 HP motor, and calibrated dual-motion drive system ensure consistent energy input per cycle, minimizing operator-induced variability and enabling method transfer between laboratories. Unlike purely vibratory or gyratory shakers, the Ro-Tap architecture applies controlled mechanical agitation that preserves particle integrity while maximizing stratification and passage efficiency—particularly critical for cohesive, fibrous, or mildly abrasive powders encountered in pharmaceutical granules, food ingredients, mineral concentrates, and metallurgical feedstocks.

Key Features

• Patented dual-motion mechanism: 278 ± 10 rpm orbital rotation + 150 ± 5 vertical taps per minute—engineered to meet ASTM E11-09 timing and force specifications
• Modular sieve stack capacity: accommodates up to six 8″ (200 mm) full-height sieves or thirteen 8″ half-height sieves simultaneously, with optional 12″ (305 mm) configurations via RX-30 variant
• Digital timer with 0–99 minute range and LED display—supports repeatable, auditable test duration control compliant with GLP documentation requirements
• Universal power compatibility: operates on either 230 V, 50 Hz or 110 V, 60 Hz inputs without internal rewiring—suitable for global laboratory deployment
• NIST-aligned mechanical calibration path: motor output, tap amplitude, and rotational eccentricity are traceable to national standards when used with certified reference sieves and verification kits
• Structural rigidity: 82 kg mass and reinforced base minimize resonance during extended runs, ensuring stable amplitude transmission across multi-tier stacks

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RX-29 is validated for dry-sieving applications across particle size ranges from 20 µm to 125 mm, supporting both coarse aggregate classification and fine-powder fractionation. It accepts sieves manufactured to ASTM E11-09, ISO 3310-1, and BS 410 specifications—including brass, stainless steel, polyester, nylon, and nickel alloy mesh types—as well as punched plate and wet-screening variants (e.g., LA11112 wet-sieve kit). Full-height sieves (67 mm) and half-height variants (41–48 mm) are interchangeable within the same stack, allowing flexible configuration for tiered analysis or regulatory-compliant tiered reporting (e.g., USP , EP 2.9.32). The unit’s mechanical repeatability supports audit readiness under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated electronic data capture systems; however, native data logging requires integration with third-party software or optional accessories such as the SSA-39 strength-test sieve assembly or R-30050 acoustic isolation cabinet (reducing operational noise to ≤65 dBA).

Software & Data Management

The RX-29 operates as a standalone electromechanical instrument with no embedded firmware or onboard data storage. All operational parameters—including elapsed time, start/stop timestamps, and user-defined run sequences—are managed externally. For regulated environments, laboratories integrate the shaker into validated workflows using: (i) digital timers with USB or RS-232 output for CSV export; (ii) third-party particle analysis platforms (e.g., CILAS, Malvern Mastersizer companion modules); or (iii) LIMS-linked acquisition via programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Optional accessories such as the LA11194 water-sieving module or P-1405 ultrasonic cleaning station generate ancillary datasets (e.g., suspension stability metrics, mesh cleanliness validation logs) that may be appended to final PSD reports. While the RX-29 itself does not provide automated weight-loss calculation, its consistent motion profile ensures gravimetric results obtained post-sieving comply with ISO 13320 and ASTM D6913 reporting conventions.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: granule size distribution of direct-compression blends, excipient classification, and API particle release profiling per ICH Q5A guidelines
• Food & Feed: flour fineness testing (AACC Method 26-10), pet food kibble grading, spice particle homogeneity assessment
• Minerals & Metals: crushed ore sizing, foundry sand gradation (ASTM C778), ferroalloy powder classification
• Construction Materials: aggregate gradation per ASTM C136, recycled concrete fines analysis, asphalt mix design verification
• Advanced Ceramics & Additive Manufacturing: metal and ceramic powder feedstock screening prior to sintering or binder jetting
• Environmental Testing: soil particle size analysis (ASTM D422), sediment classification in wastewater treatment sludge characterization

FAQ

Does the RX-29 include sieves?
No. The RX-29-10 configuration includes the shaker base unit only. Sieves must be selected separately based on aperture size, material (brass, stainless steel, polymer), diameter (8″, 12″, ISO 200 mm), and height (full or half).

What sieve standards does it support?
The RX-29 is mechanically compatible with all sieves conforming to ASTM E11-09, ISO 3310-1, BS 410, and DIN 4188. Calibration traceability to NIST is achievable using certified reference sieve sets.

Can it perform wet sieving?
Yes—when equipped with the LA11112 wet-sieving kit, the entire stack can be submerged for dispersion-sensitive materials such as clays, pigments, or hydrophobic nanoparticles.

Is noise mitigation available?
The R-30050 acoustic enclosure reduces operational sound pressure to ≤65 dBA and is recommended for shared laboratory spaces or prolonged daily use.

How is maintenance performed?
Routine maintenance includes periodic inspection of eccentric weights, motor mounting bolts, and rubber isolation feet. Lubrication is not required; the sealed induction motor is rated for continuous operation at ambient temperatures up to 40°C.