W.S. Tyler Ro-Tap® SS30S Sieve Shaker

Overview

The W.S. Tyler Ro-Tap® SS30S Sieve Shaker is a precision-engineered mechanical sieving instrument designed to perform standardized particle size distribution analysis in accordance with ASTM E11, ISO 3310-1, and USP <786>. It employs a dual-motion mechanism—horizontal circular oscillation (278 cycles/min) combined with vertical tapping (150 taps/min)—to replicate the manual sieving action defined in regulatory test methods. This synchronized motion ensures uniform particle stratification, efficient particle passage through mesh apertures, and high reproducibility across repeated analyses. The SS30S variant operates at 230 V / 60 Hz and is optimized for laboratories requiring compliance-driven, high-throughput dry sieve analysis of granular and powdered materials. Its robust cast-iron frame, permanently lubricated 1/4 HP induction motor, and vibration-dampening base design support continuous operation under GMP/GLP environments where equipment stability and traceability are critical.

Key Features

• Dual-action motion profile: 278 oscillations per minute + 150 vertical taps per minute—fully compliant with ASTM E11 Annex A1 and ISO 3310-1 requirements for mechanical sieving.
• Integrated digital timer with 0.1-second resolution and 99-minute maximum duration, supporting programmable, repeatable test cycles with audit-ready timing logs.
• Quick-adjust sieve clamp assembly enabling rapid reconfiguration between full-height (203 mm), half-height, and ISO 200 mm sieve stacks without tools.
• Sturdy steel enclosure with reinforced mounting points for secure benchtop anchoring—reducing operational drift and enhancing measurement consistency during extended runs.
• Motor-driven eccentric cam system delivering consistent amplitude and phase relationship between oscillation and tap motions—minimizing inter-run variability.
• Compatible with W.S. Tyler’s full range of ASTM-standard stainless-steel test sieves (No. 4–No. 635; 4.75 mm–20 µm) and ISO-certified equivalents.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SS30S accommodates up to six full-height 8-inch (203 mm) test sieves or thirteen half-height sieves in a single stack configuration. It supports both dry free-flowing powders and moderately cohesive granules—including pharmaceutical actives, mineral ores, catalysts, ceramics, food ingredients, and polymer resins. All operational parameters meet the mechanical performance criteria outlined in ASTM E11 Section 7.2 (vibration amplitude, tap force, and motion synchronization), ISO 3310-1 Clause 6.3 (motion verification), and USP <786> for particle size determination. When paired with NIST-traceable calibration sieves and operated within documented SOPs, the system satisfies FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity requirements when used with compliant LIMS or validated laboratory software.

Software & Data Management

While the SS30S operates as a standalone electromechanical unit, its deterministic motion profile and precise timer output enable seamless integration into automated lab workflows. Digital timer events can be logged via external PLC interfaces or connected to laboratory information management systems (LIMS) using RS-232 or optional relay outputs. For full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and user access control—W.S. Tyler recommends pairing the SS30S with validated third-party software platforms such as LabWare LIMS or Thermo Fisher SampleManager. All timer settings, run durations, and power-on/off timestamps are retained in non-volatile memory and accessible for GLP audit review.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical quality control: Granule and API particle size distribution per USP <786> and ICH Q5A.
• Mineral processing labs: Ore classification, flotation feed sizing, and tailings characterization per ASTM D6913.
• Ceramic and refractory manufacturing: Green body powder grading, binder dispersion assessment, and sintering feed consistency verification.
• Food & beverage R&D: Flour, sugar, spice, and dairy powder uniformity testing aligned with AOAC 991.27.
• Environmental testing labs: Soil and sediment particle analysis per ASTM D422 and EPA Method 1684.
• Materials science research: Nanoparticle agglomerate dispersion evaluation prior to SEM/TEM analysis.

FAQ

What voltage configurations are available for the Ro-Tap® SS30 series?
The SS30S model is configured for 230 V / 60 Hz operation. Other variants include SS30 (115 V / 60 Hz) and SS30F (230 V / 50 Hz).
Can the SS30S accommodate ISO 200 mm test sieves?
Yes—the SS30S accepts ISO 200 mm diameter sieves using the optional ISO adapter plate (sold separately).
Is the SS30S suitable for GMP-regulated environments?
Yes—its deterministic motion, calibrated timer, and mechanical reliability support validation protocols required for pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing.
What is the maximum recommended sample mass for an 8-inch sieve stack on the SS30S?
Per ASTM E11, total sample mass should not exceed 10% of the combined sieve stack mass; typical loads range from 100 g to 500 g depending on material density and particle shape.
Does the SS30S include a sound enclosure?
No—the SS30S is supplied as a bare unit. The W.S. Tyler Sound Enclosure (Model SE-8) is available as an optional accessory for noise reduction in shared lab spaces.