Vision Analytical has launched Pi Sentinel PRO, a new generation of the traditional Particle Insight instrument. It is a world-class dynamic image analyzer most suitable for applications where the particle shape, and not just the particle size, is crucial for calculating the raw material’s quality and for realizing a high level of process control.
Particle morphology provides vital data regarding the physical shape properties of users’ samples. A particle’s shape has been demonstrated to affect flowability, packing density, dispersion, aggregate formation, segregation, and microstructure character.
Currently, the fully automated Pi Sentinel PRO is controlled by an all-in-one computer, and hence, it is a perfect research-grade instrument or for use in a production process where ease of use, speed, and precision with its Pass or Fail shape control limits feature can be utilized.
Dynamic image/particle shape analyzer
Image Credit: Vision Analytical
Principles of operation
Particles are suspended homogeneously in a carrier liquid. They pass through a thin flow cell in the optical path. Transmission of light takes place via the flow cell, which enables projecting silhouettes of the particles onto a high-resolution camera sensor.
The high resolution and high frame rate of the camera together with a high-speed host computer enable the characterization of thousands of particles in just a second in real-time.
This technique is ideal for applications where data regarding shape, and not just diameter, is critical for calculating the raw material’s performance.