Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:52 Uhr Seite 1
ISSN 0949-6025
the
sample
Information
No
19 |
and news regarding
01
April 2001
preparation and characterisation of solids
for laboratories
and industry.
STANDARD GRAIN-SIZE ANALYSIS
Contents
Page 2
Press review
Page 3
Focus on Retsch’s
representation
in the Netherlands
Page 4
Graintest:
A focus on software
Page 5
Precision sieving:
Reliability through sieving
Page 6/7
The service provider:
Retsch’s modern customer service concept
Page 8
Completely rounded
product: Particle sizing at
Hüttenes Albertus
Page 9
The sparkles of success:
Standard-compliant sample division at Hermes
Page 10
The Coffeehouse: Fine
Coffee on the check
by Seeberger
Page 11
Retsch Inc.: A new subsidiary in the US
Page 12
News
Dates – Actions – Reports
Source: Retsch
Test passed
Regular calibration of inspection,
measuring and test equipment
forms the basis for standard and
reliable grain-size analysis.
Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:52 Uhr Seite 2
Re t s c h In t e r n a l | Pre s s
CURRENT
New management
the same time worked on his doctorate which focused on the management of technical product innovations. While serving in this position, he was primarily involved in
the areas product and business development as well as establishing
strategic cooperations. With the
formation of Retsch Technology
GmbH in June of last year, Dr. Pankratz was appointed as managing director of the subsidiary company.
His main responsibility was to setup an international distribution
network for Retsch Technology. As
new managing director, Dr. Pankratz does not only have vast expe-
rience in developing and manufacturing laboratory equipment to offer but also experience in distribution and in corporate management.
Along with ensuring the continuous further development of Retsch’s line of laboratory equipment,
he aims to strengthen and consolidate its distribution activities in the
coming years.
Reliably preparing samples
■ (…) The BB51 laboratory jaw
crusher is a new addition to our line of products designed for crushing. (…) The exchangeable breaking jaws and side panels made of
zirconium-oxide or the affordable
chromium-nickel-free steel represent a significant advancement in
quality for comminution without
leaving heavy metals in the ground
material. (...)
Laboratory devices for precise
sample analysis
■ Retsch, a leading German manufacturer of laboratory equipment,
has launched new devices for preparing samples and analysing particle size.
The Micro Rapid Mill MS 100 is for
dry and wet milling of mediumhard to very brittle substances.(...)
For particle sizing,Retsch has launched the Camsizer und Crystalzisser,which have exceptional optical
measuring possibilities.The equipment can be used for easy and precise measurement of particle sizes
and shapes of dry powders and
bulk materials in the range of one
µm up to 30 mm. (...)
The Sample Divider PT 100 has
technical innovations, such as additional dividing heads,for analysts
and laboratory technicians wanting simple and exact division of
small sample quantities. (...)
PRESS REVIEW
Retsch Technology founded
■ On June 1,2000 Retsch GmbH &
Co. KG hived off the former division Retsch Technology, forming an
independent company having the
legal form of a GmbH (German Limited Liability Company). Just like
the company Retsch, the new
company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Verder. (...) Retsch Technology concentrates primarily on
the development and distribution
of particle analysis equipment.
WLB Wasser, Luft, Boden 9/2000
AufbereitungsTechnik 41 (2000) Nr. 9
Cutting mills in open-cast mining
■ Retsch’s SM 2000 cutting mill
was integrated for the preliminary
crushing of bulk materials in a fully
automatic system for direct in-line
sampling and sample analysis. The
system was developed by APC,
which has operational facilities in
Kronberg and Langen. (...)
Surface Mining 52 (2000) No. 5
Comminution in three minutes
■ Another innovative addition to
Retsch’s product line is the MM 300
mixer mill, which is a further development of the MM 200. Using the
MM 300, it is possible to comminute 96 plant-based samples each in
two micro tube stands simultaneously, completely and uniformly
within three minutes. After this
processing stage,sample material is
then prepared optimally for DNA
isolation with the aid of DNeasy
Technology. (...)
Lebensmittel Technik 09/2000
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No
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01
EDITORIAL
Dear Readers,
customers and
business partners,
Trustworthy information about a product is often a decisive sales argument. The consequences of abusing a
customer’s trust are particularly evident when examining the current situation in connection with the BSE scandal in „safe” Germany. Even now it is
obvious that this major catastrophe
will have extensive consequences for
the food processing industry. The only
way to gradually regain the trust in industrially processed foods is to ensure
a provable and tested quality of products. Such a fundamental threat can
affect many sectors. Thus, the permanent testing of the physical composition of raw materials and the final products must be given top priority. That
is why the current issue of our publication focuses on the most important requirements for grain-size analysis in
conformance with standards and the
important role proper monitoring of inspection, measuring and test equipment plays in achieving this.
Pleasant reading!
Yours,
Glass International July/August 2000
Dr. Jürgen Pankratz
Management
Source: Retsch
Effective February 1, 2001, Dr. Jürgen Pankratz assumed the reins of
Retsch GmbH & Co. KG, thus ending the period in which Retsch’s
operative business was managed by
authorized officers. The thirty-five
year old Pankratz combines technical expertise with business knowhow, considering he studied both
physics and business administration. At the beginning of his professional career, Dr. Pankratz specialized in solid-state physics while
working in the area of optics and
measuring technology. In 1996 Dr.
Pankratz joined Retsch as an assistant to the executive board and at
Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:52 Uhr Seite 3
| Po r t r a i t
R E TS C H
IN THE LAND
riod following, several hundred
Grindomix became a permanent
fixture in Dutch laboratories. To
reach customers, Retsch BV attaches great importance to participating in specialized trade fairs for
wastewater, foodstuff and environmental technology. Unlike at large
trade fairs, the specialist for laboratory equipment can adapt its pro-
OF TRADE
Focus on Retsch’s representation in the Netherlands - Retsch BV,
Ochten
Always open to innovations on the laboratory equipment market, Frans Bakker
prefers to implements his own ideas.
Source: H zwo B
IRetsch’s representation in the Netherlands does not only deliver laboratory equipment
but also provides outstanding customer support.
other. Consequently, a specialist is
on the road for each manufacturer
representation to consult customers on site. „Thus, as an importer,
we supply almost a full range of laboratory equipment,” says Bakker
proudly. „Although we only take care of a small country, we are, based
long run have less success”, Bakker
explains.At Retsch BV thing are done differently.A case in point is the
introduction of the Grindomix in
Holland. Retsch BV wrote to all of
its customers who acquired the ZM
100, advising them about the advantages of the new mills.In the pe-
LAB EQUIPMENT
"The situation faced by small and
medium-sized distributors of laboratory equipment in the Netherlands continues to intensify
due to this sector’s density. Nonetheless, I feel that our prospects
are good, considering laboratory
equipment in general requires a
lot of consultation, in other
words "people business”.The manufacturers and distributors who
combine high product quality
and good service will survive
with regard to competent and
standard laboratory analyses.”
Source: H zwo B
on sales volume, one of the most
The small town of Ochten and the
important branches for Retsch.”
seat of Retsch BV is located betRetsch BV supplies over sixty disween Rotterdam, Amsterdam and
tributors in the Netherlands. „In
the German border. Founded as the
other words, we have a large sales
first foreign branch office in 1972,
volume. But quantity is not everand managed by Frans Bakker since
ything. Our success is based essen1974, Retsch BV has been selling
tially on knowledge and experienRetsch laboratory equipment for
ce”, Bakker adds. „As an importer,
nearly 30 years. „In this regard our
we usually know more about the
enterprise has some exceptional
users’
features to offer,”
wants and
says Frans Bak"Our success in distributing Retsch equipneeds than
ker, head of the
company.On the ment is a matter of experience. The customer an international maone hand, the
must feel that you know your product well.”
nufacturer.”
agency supplies
Bakker sees
both Dutch dis- Frans Bakker, Managing director and owner of Retsch BV
his business
tributors of laas an interface facilitating commuboratory equipment and end custonication. He passes the users’ expemers. On the other hand, Retsch BV
rience onto the manufacturer and
does not specialize only in equipin turn ensures that information abment manufactured by Retsch but
out new developments reaches the
also represents in Holland twelve
end users directly. „Those distribuother international manufacturers
tors who only forward packaged
of laboratory equipment with proequipment to customers will in the
duct ranges complementing each
PROSPECTS OF DISTRIBUTING
duct range to the specific target
groups. According to Bakker, „Our
experience shows that real new business evolves in this manner.What
counts primarily in our business is
well-founded information and personal contact.”Another pillar of our
success is support.This encompasses application consultation, equipment demonstrations as well as repairing equipment on site at customer’s premises or in our Ochten
workshop and training. To ensure
customer satisfaction, two service
vehicles are the on road everyday.
Another plus is that Retsch BV delivers within 24 hours. „For this purpose we purchase all equipment
and accessories, thus ensuring they
are available from stock at all times.
Hardly any other distributor does
this aside from us, not even large
distributors.”This service is supported by Retsch BV’s computer system. Once a product is sold, the system automatically orders a new one
from the manufacturer. Moreover,
Bakker and his 26 employees can
follow the course of every single
device which has been delivered in
the past twelve years using the „history” maintained in the computer
system.And yet development continues – even for importers who have been in business for years.For in-
Frans Bakker, Managing director
and owner of Retsch BV
stance, opening up the European
market has resulted in considerable
changes for Retsch BV. „On the one
hand, we are the sole sales organization for Retsch in Holland. However, with the single market every
prospective buyer can nowadays
order directly from the manufacturer”, emphasizes Bakker who also
sells online general used laboratory
equipment through an independent
company called Emergo. „Even under the conditions of the single
market, we will continue to collaborate with Retsch based on the
trust we have developed over the
years.We also will continue to provide support in Holland and ensure
maximum customer satisfaction in
our country. Thus, everyone, the
looked-after customer, we as an importer and the manufacturer, will
profit.
CONTACT ADDRESS:
Retsch BV
Herr Frans Bakker
Industrieweg 13
NL-4051 BW Ochten
Phone +31-3 44 64 74 84
Fax +31-3 44 64 74 00
Email [email protected]
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Pr o d u c t s
|
GRAINTEST
A F O C U S O N S O F T WA R E
Retsch’s Graintest software allows for performance of complete
tower, these parameters can be setup, edited, saved and then retrieved
at a later time.Thus, the user is spared from making time-consuming
entries and weighing the empty
screen before every analysis.
particle size analyses – sieving, sedimentation and weighing as
well as evaluation.
the sieving machine and data link
from various measuring capacities
facilitate the daily workflow in laboratories.
Here is an outline of a typical operational sequence:
Source: Retsch
Quicker, more reliable, simpler:
Graintest, the software developed
for particle size analyses, eclipses
manual analysis in many aspects.
The software is capable of automatically performing the typical measuring and weighing operations –
Possible modes for presenting results with Graintest, based on two different quartz
sand sub samples.
from registering the weights of the
screens to evaluating the data.
Moreover, Graintest offers the posINTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
The evaluation software Graintest is validated under the quality requirements and test specifications as pursuant to ISO/ICE
12119.The graphical representations comply with applicable
standards,the analysis report corresponds with the specifications
of DIN 66165.
sibility to display the analysis results using diagrams, to print out all
texts and graphic information or to
export these to other programs for
instance Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Word.The automatic control of
the
sample 4
No
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Step 1: Entering parameters
The logical construction of the software makes it easy for users to start
implementing the program.All existing parameters and variables
which possibly are to be calculated
can be entered using the available
entry fields by mouse click. The
program guides the users through
the program step by step.Thus,possible errors resulting from missing
data are eliminated.
With Graintest it is possible to evaluate analysis results from sieving
towers containing up to sixteen
screens. In addition to the entry of
screen height, screen diameter or
minimum/maximum particle size,
the program automatically registers
the respective weight of the empty
screens. Since these parameters are
indispensable for measuring, yet remain constant for a given sieving
Step 2: Screening or sedimentation analysis
The program automatically starts
the sieving machine and transfers
the preset sieve parameters. Moreover,the software automatically manages data and controls external devices. Preset variables only have to
be implemented once (while setting up the equipment) and are
then transferred from the computer
directly to the equipment for subsequent analyses. After completing
the sieve analysis, the sieves are
then placed on the connected scales for reweighing according to
size; pressing the Print button on
the scales actuates the data transfer.
By weighing the differences, the
program independently determines
the mass fractions and assigns them
to the respective fractions. All data
is then made available immediately
for further processing.Graintest automatically calculates the result and
creates a professional test report.
Step 3: Possible modes for presenting analysis results
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
The all-out performance of Graintest is best attained by using an
IBM-compatible computer with
the following system requirements:
• Windows 95/98
• Windows 2000
• Windows NT
DATA COUPLING
Since particle distribution may
exceed the standars measuring
range of sieve shakers, Graintest
offers a data coupling function.
This function allows the user to
compile any series of particle
measurements from various particle-size areas within one object.
Combining the measuring data
from sieve and sedimentation
analyses is only an example for
this function.
The distribution of particle sizes
can be visualized by using either tables or graphics. Cumulative passage or retained density distribution
and histograms are avialable in to
standard grids. Moreover, you can
complete the results by selecting
fineness characteristics, variables
and layout of the legend.Title, subtitle and comments can be defined
individually as needed.
Step 4: Exporting data
All resulting data can be printed either as text or in graphical form, saved and exported. Moreover, you
can work with the data using for instance Microsoft products, such as
PowerPoint,Word and Excel as well
as export the data as ASCII files.
Evaluation software Graintest:
Ref. No. 01
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| Te c h n i c a l Re p o r t
P R E C I S I O N S I EV I N G
Helmut Pitsch / Kenneth McCartney
Reliability through sieving: Particle size and particle size distribution form an important basis for product evaluation of disperse
solids. That is why extensive know-how is required for exact and
standard sampling as part of the production process in the laboratory with the aid of particle analysis equipment. Otherwise
insufficient or even false analysis results as well as results which
cannot be reproduced result in economic loss.
The ultimate objective in the production process of bulk materials is
to influence the physical properties
of coarsely dispersed systems, considering particle-size distribution
and particle size determine the miscibility, filterability, compaction,
transport properties, wear characteristics and agglomeration properties. In order to ensure that the
process proceeds optimally, it is
controlled and monitored constantly using particle measurements.
Quality control during ongoing
production depends on quick,
exact and reproducible results.
Sieve analysis is used in this regard
to monitor particle distribution of
bulk materials. Its reliability is guaranteed by complying with natio-
nal and international standards
within the framework of DIN ISO
9000 and following standards.If the
particlesize distribution serves as a
quality characteristic for evaluating
bulk materials, the prescribed test
procedures must be strictly observed and reproducible. Fundamental
prerequisites for this include using
standardized test sieves and a reliable sieve shaker,flawless evaluation
and documentation of results.
Moreover, it is necessary to ensure
that all measuring equipment with
an impact on the measuring result
are regularly recalibrated.Thus, systematic, accidental and personal
faults are eliminated for the most
part or are reduced to a minimum.
ted technology has a significant impact on the information about the
material being screened. That is
why possible influences posed by
the sieving machine, such as oscillation amplitude and sieving time,
must be recalibrated by the manufacturer on a regular basis. For this
purpose, timing and oscillation amplitude indicated by the sieving
machine must be calibrated using
special measuring devices within
the framework of the final machinery inspection and the control of
measuring and testing equipment.
Calibration results are recorded in a
calibration certificate, and a sticker
confirming performance of test is
attached to the sieving machine.
TRACEABILITY OF
TEST EQUIPMENT
Monitoring test equipment is
based on the traceability of measuring equipment parameters via
the reference standard to the national standard.Traceability helps
to determine and correct systematic deviations occurring in
measuring equipment.Test equipment is monitored in accordance
with the respective auditors at
specified time intervals. In order
to be able to quantify and reduce
measurement uncertainties, the
measuring equipment is calibrated using standards of known precision, the working standards.
Screens and sieving machines can
be sent to the manufacturer for
recalibration or you can now request a Retsch technician to come
and recalibrate them at your premises.
Evaluation and documentation
After completing the sieving process, the individual fractions are
analyzed by weight. In other words,
software designed specifically for
evaluating particle analyses,handles
the sieving results effectively and in
a time-saving manner, while calculating particle size distribution and fineness characteristics.
TEST SIEVES
In general test sieves must be manufactured in compliance with
standards and thus must fulfill all
specifications of DIN/ISO 3310
Part 1, 2 or 3. In this regard, the
manufacturer is obliged to confirm the quality of their test
sieves by providing a quality control report with each screen.
Identification markings on the
edge of the screen provide the
following information:
• Nominal mesh size
• Reference to the respective
standard
• Material of sieve mesh and
sieve frame
• Manufacturer’s name
• Identification number,
serial number.
If test sieves are to be used by a QA
certified company as test equipment in the production control,
then a simple certificate of compliance is not sufficient. In such case
the standard-compliant design of
the sieve must be confirmed
through calibration in accordance
with the specifications for controlling inspection, measuring and test
equipment. For instance, optical
measuring techniques are implemented to determine the mesh sizes of woven wire sieves warpwise
and weftwise. Every calibrated
screen comes with an inspection
certificate confirming compliance
with standards. Reliable and reproducible sieving results also depend
on the implemented sieving process as well as on the sieving duration and movement. Consequently,
sieving for a long or short period of
time, manually or using sophistica-
Source: Retsch
Calibration
STANDARD-COMPLIANT
With the recalibration certificate, the
user can always prove that its test equipment complies with the applicable standards.
The unabridged version of this article, which was printed in „DNI,
Deutsche Naturstein Industrie”
1/2001 under the title: „Precision
sieving – Reliability through sieving” can be requested using Ref.
No. 02.
„Precision sieving“: Ref. No. 02
the sample material remaining on
the individual screens and on the
collecting pan is weighed. In order
to minimize a possible screening
loss or cross contamination, it is advisable to leave the material on the
screens and calculate the respective
mass by means of determining the
weight difference. Graintest, the
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Se r v i c e |
THE
S E RV I C E P ROV I D E R
Thousands of Retsch laboratory devices are in service worldwide, reliably preparing diverse samples
SERVICE NUMBER
Information about our customer
services can be obtained at
Phone +49/0 21 29 - 55 6 1- 301
or by using Ref. No. 03
day in and day out. In order to ensure that they continue to run smoothly, Retsch has set up a comprehensive customer service program over the past few years. In 2001, starting in Germany, this custo-
tailoring it to better suit customer requirements.
FREE-OF-CHARGE
STANDARD SERVICES
• Consulting about accessories and
equipment
• Equipment presentation on site for
new acquisitions
• Application consulting by phone
• Application consulting through our
sulting by telephone and on site,
sending field reps to continually
look after users of Retsch equipment,maintaining a comprehensive
network of authorized distributors
and even processing samples in our
Source: Retsch
With regard to customer service,
Retsch follows a clear strategy.„The
word service comes from ‘to serve’.
And we take this literally when providing our customers with good
‘service’,” explains Stefan Wego, domestic sales manager. In other
words this mean „to focus more on
the customer and to listen closer in
order to be able to react to the customer’s wants and needs.”
For example Germany: This concept is subdivided into two categories - the free-of-charge standard
customer service and special customer service which is subject to
fees.The tried and tested services of
Retsch’s free-of-charge customer
support include application con-
Always ready: Retsch’s service personnel
is on the road for customers.
own laboratory. Now Retsch shall
be more active and in addition to
performing the usual visual inspection for correct functioning and
state of repair of customer equipment they shall keep customers informed about controls of test
equipment.This primarily concerns
sieving machines and test sieves
which have to be recalibrated on a
regular basis.
field reps on site, as part of or out-
New services
side of facility tours
• Constant customer support
• Delivery of special publications and
information
• Comprehensive network of authorized
distributors
• Online ordering via Internet
• Customer visit with sample processing
• Processing samples at Retsch
laboratory
• Visual inspection for correct functioning and state of repair of customer
equipment and accessories as part of
on-site customer support
the
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No
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Another new addition is our Equipment Lease Pool. Now customers
have the opportunity to lease laboratory equipment for their own use
at Retsch for two weeks. If the customer decides, however, within
four weeks that it would like to
purchase the device,then the rental
fee shall be deducted from the sale
price.
Other special services include, as
before, commissioning of equipment and familiarization by qualified personnel, contractual processing as well as employee training
and workshops (See article on
„Service – In-house training program”, see Pg. 6) at the customer’s
premises.
And many new services are planned for the future.The even closer
contact which shall evolve in the
future between manufacturer and
user due to enhancing the service
program will in the long run result
in the development of new equipment at Retsch. Especially, since
maintaining contact with equipment users has had a great impact
on product development for years:
„Soft skills, such as customer support and consulting,are our ears for
the industry. Thus, we can stay upto-date with developments and the
customers can profit from this service concept”, Wego stresses. „For
the same costs we make sure that
the customer’s quality standards are
maintained on a high level by looking after his equipment.”
Service – In-house training program
K N OW L E D G E
B RO U G H T
TO YO U
Learning at one’s own premises:
While training pharmaceutical
technicians of the Freiburg-based
company Gödecke AG, employees
of Retsch’s product management
provided sound knowledge involving the evaluation software Graintest. „In order to ensure the quality
of pharmaceutical powders, for instance our medicine for heart and
circulation, we have to implement
up to 20 screenings a day. Nonetheless, we do not always have the
background knowledge for effec-
Source: Gödecke AG, Freiburg
mer service program will be expanded by adding some new services, focusing on specific aspects and
tively using our evaluation software”, describes Bettina Weiss,
pharmaceutical technician and lab
assistant of IPC, the reason why
their department turned to Retsch.
During the in-house training involving Retsch’s Graintest software,
nine pharmaceutical technicians
from processing engineering and
in-process controlling were informed about the program’s features
and capabilities for handling sieving results. Afterwards, attendees
were able to clarify practical questions. Additional bonus for the
company: The in-house training
was perfect for shift operation and
thus spared employees from having
to make an additional trip to work.
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G l o s s a r y | Se r v i c e
I M P O R TA N T T E R M S
I N C A L I B R AT I O N T E C H N O LO G Y
Calibration
Calibration means determining the
systematic deviations in measurements without changing the measuring device.The result of calibration
is recorded in a „calibration certificate” or a „calibration report”.
Calibration cycle
Measuring and test equipment must
be subjected to a regular recalibration cycle, which depends on the
calibrating precision required by
the user. Ideally the first recalibration should take place after six
months.Afterwards, it is recommen-
ded to extend the cycle to one year.
If the tolerance band set by the user
is wide, then it is possible to maintain a fairly generous monitoring
and calibration cycle.
Measurement uncertainty
The measured values of any standard are linked with an uncertainty.
In the calibration hierarchy the higher standard possesses a lesser uncertainty than the subordinate standard. Every other lower level thus
results in an increase of measurement uncertainty.
Source: Retsch
Working standard
The standard,which is calibrated directly or using one or multiple steps
with a reference standard.The working standard is used routinely in order to calibrate or test material measures or measuring equipment.
Optical measuring: Regular calibration of inspection, measuring and test equipment
forms the basis for standard and reliable grain-size analysis.
which can be used for measurements carried out at this location.
National standard
The standard which is recognized
by an official national committee as
basis for determining the value of all
other standards of the respective
variable in a given country.The national standard is often a „primary
standard”.
Inspection Certificate
The certificate, in which the manufacturer confirms that the delivered
products comply with the agreements in the order (for instance the
data sheet).The results of the specific tests are recorded in the test report. Other designations are: quality
control report as pursuant to EN
10204, 2.3 or quality control report
as pursuant to ISO 50049, 2.3.
Reference standard
The standard which in general represents the maximum available
precision for a certain location
(company, measuring station) and
SPECIAL CUSTOMER SERVICES SUBJECT TO FEES
C A L I B R AT I O N – R E C A L I B R AT I O N
• Preparation of estimate of costs for
repairs at Retsch premises
The calibration and even the traceability of measurement results back
to generally accepted standards are
strictly prescribed for monitoring
test equipment in conjunction with
ISO 9000 and following standards.
Since test sieves and sieving machines
as test equipment are governed by
these regulations,there is a legal obligation to furnish proof for the accuracy of the measurement results
which are obtained using them. For
this purpose, the measuring instruments must be recalibrated to na-
TRACEABILITY
Traceability is the means to substantiate a tolerance with the aid
of documented calibrations.
tionally accepted standards in order
to determine their systematic measuring deviations and, if possible,
correct them.Only after quantifying
and minimizing the measurement
uncertainty, it is possible to use the
test equipment for quality assurance.
Calibration process
In measuring technology, calibration chains of measuring standards
are the decisive tool for traceability
of results. In case of analytical sieves, the calibration process is as follows: The screens have mesh sizes
defined in accordance with national standards such as DIN 3310/1,
ASTM E 11-95, etc. In turn they are
used for carrying out measurements of the product. The size of
these apertures is controlled during
the first step with the aid of optical
measuring equipment warpwise
and weftwise.This measurement is
called calibration based on working
standards. Moreover, the optical
measuring device is essential for ensuring the accuracy of this data.
That is why the optical measuring
device itself is also subject to calibration.Thus, inspectors determine
the systematic deviation of the
measuring device using certified
calibration objects, for instance cubes with specified edge length.The
calibration certificate confirms the
traceability to this reference standard. It documents the measurement values and deviations of the
calibration objects and traces these
back to the nationally accepted
standard.
• Proper commissioning of the equipment while training the user or operating personnel
• Training and workshops on-site and
in-house
• Lease of equipment
• Calibration agreements
• Contractual processing, series of
tests on time and material basis
• Repair work on-site
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our product stream using sieve analysis in addition to other procedures. During this testing we attach
great importance to very precise
and real-time information concerning particle size distribution, particle shape and surface, just as the
AS 200 control „g”analytical sieving
machine provides it”, says Dahlmann, explaining the decision to
use the AS 200. Observing the particle size distribution prescribed for
the prepared sands to be used in
foundries is absolutely essential for
eliminating potential sources of errors. For instance, an increased
quantity of fine particles in the prepared sand can result in poor gas
permeability and thus causing gas
bubbles in the cast part.Likewise the
attained strength of the molds,
C O M P L E T E LY RO U N D E D
P RO D U C T
To ensure quick and exact grain-size analysis of prepared sands,
the production laboratory of the Düsseldorf-based HüttenesAlbertus Chemische Werke GmbH implements the AS 200 control
„g” analytical sieving machine in its incoming goods inspection
and quality control.
Source: Hüttenes-Albertus
Although every minute counts,
time passes like sand between the
fingers when carrying out tests parallel to the production process.
With an annual output of 45,000
Minimize analytical errors with advanced lab equipment: Mr. Martin Dahlmann, product manager for HüttenesAlbertus, Düsseldorf
AFS – AN IMPORTANT
CHARACTERISTIC
The AFS fineness number is an
evaluation unit established by
American Foundrymen’s Society
(AFS) for the particle size range
for foundry sands and core sands
and corresponds to the „average
particle size”. It indicates the
mesh number of the screen
through which the respective
sands would pass if it has a uniform particle size.
Top quality for foundries
The prepared sand is tested in accordance with VDG Code of Practice P 27 using certain ISO sieve sets
– eight sieves between 0.063 and
0.710 millimeters – and a prescribed
sieving period. The quality of the
sands not only affects the surface
finish of the final castings but also the
casting molds’ resistance to pressure and cross-breaking strength. „In
order to be able to offer our customers top quality sands for their respective product, we constantly test
Source: Hüttenes-Albertus
metric tons of Resital prepared
sands, it is necessary to be able to
retrieve analytical information concerning the characteristics of ongoing production at all times. „In
our plant quartz sands, synthetic
and other mineral sands are coated
uniformly with synthetic resin. Foundries then use the prepared sands
to make molds for high precision
investment casting, for instance
cylinder heads”, explains Martin
Dahlmann,product manager at Hüttenes-Albertus Chemische Werke
GmbH in Düsseldorf. „This is where
the sieve analysis with the AS 200
comes into play”, explains Dahlmann, „considering there are very
precise specifications for foundry
sand.In our industry the fineness of
prepared sands is determined either
with the AFS fineness number or
the average particle size. Depending on requirements the AFS
fineness number is between 40 and
100 for prepared sands designated
for foundries.” (With regard to AFS
factor see box).
Reliable screening results are an important parameter of product tests at lab level.
the
sample 8
No
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01
made of prepared sand, directly depends on the particle size distribution.„To eliminate such deficiencies
from the very beginning, we rely on
the reproducible and dependable
sieving results obtained from the AS
200.Even our customers implement
the same sieving technology. Both
we and the customer obtain directly comparable sieving results due to
the adjustable sieve mesh acceleration, consequently eliminating the
need to adjust sieving results”,Dahlmann adds. Compared to previous
horizontal sieving, the AS 200 attains considerably higher sieving
precision. For fine sands, the difference is 3 to 4 ASF coefficients.As a
result of the improved passage of
the sample material, the implemented sieves do not clog as quickly as
before.The production process benefits from the new sieving technology in two ways: more precise information about product quality
Source: Hüttenes-Albertus
Ap p l i c a t i o n
Decisive for mold sands: Standard-compliant grain size distribution and uniform coating.
and a noticeable saving of time for
the employees. Moreover, the laboratory implemented the Graintest
software to ensure smooth sieving
and evaluation. The industry-specific features of the software make the
data involving the foundry standard
set automatically available.Thus,it is
not necessary to enter the respective sieve set. According to Dahlmann, „With Graintest, we always
ontain reliable sieving results, even
if the quantity of the sample taken
should vary a bit.”
AS 200 control ”g ” analytical sieving
machine: Ref. No. 04
THE PRODUCTION OF
MOLD SAND
The most common method of
making mold sand for the Croning method is hot coating.
Quartz, zircon sand, chromite
sand or aluminum silicate molding materials pure or mixed are
hot-coated with a Novolak-Hexa
film.
Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:53 Uhr Seite 9
| Ap p l i c a t i o n
T H E S PA R K L E S O F
SUCCESS
For the galenic development of new products and product series by the pharmaceutical manufacturer
Hermes in Wolfratshausen/Germany, the safe and standard-compliant sample division with the PT
100 Sample Divider from Retsch is a critical basis for good results at the subsequent analytical lab
level.
his colleagues are searching for the
ideal formulation of a product
every time a new effervescent tablet with synthetic or vegetable
substances is developed. The production of effervescent tablets is
considered a high-tech undertaking
duct is developed samples are taken at every working step. Critical
test parameters are the uniform
distribution of the active substances, miscibility (i.e., homogeneity), and the flowability of the
product. Stability is tested under
THE EFFERVESCENT TABLET
Source: H zwo B
AS A DRUG
Dr. Klaus Dandl manages the galenic development in the Wolfratshausen facility of
Hermes Arzneimittel GmbH.
active ingredient, is in fact a very
complex material composition to
the maker: ”Effervescent tablets
contain different reactive substances which should not react with
each other unless the dissolution is
provoked by water”, Dr. Klaus
Dandl, manager of galenic development, underlines the high quality
requirements.Therefore Dandl and
HERMES ARZNEIMITTEL GMBH
For over 30 years,Hermes has developed and produced high-quality effervescent tablets, which
are sold through the producer's
own outlets or made for other
well-known pharmaceutical producers. Every year, the facility at
Wolfratshausen produces some
600 million of these tablets. Hermes products are sold throughout the world; the core business
is in Germany, where effervescent tablets are available from at
drug stores.
within the pharmaceutical industry: High-grade effervescent tablets
are made in pellet form because a
pellet is better than a powder in
terms of the uniform distribution of
active substances, stability and the
flowing and compression properties. However, the constituents of
pellets tend to segregate.”If we test
the grain size spectrum and distribution of a newly developed pellet in
our laboratory, the prepared division of the material must ensure
that the composition of each and
every constituent is representative
of the whole batch“, Dr. Dandl explains the importance of sample division. Only in this way can the end
user be sure that the quantity of active substance which is printed on
the label is actually contained in the
tablet.”„The low standard deviation
from the mean value in the case of
the PT100 Sample Divider makes it
possible for us to provide dependable information as to the composition of the pellets at any time“,
Dandl adds.When a new pellet pro-
Any effervescent table contains
two basic materials: a basic carbonate as CO2 carrier and an organic acid.These two substances
react with each other when dissolving in water.In 95 per cent of
all effervescent tablets sodium
bicarbonate is the effervescing
chemical and citric acid is the organic acid.Other ingredients are:
the active substance (medical
drug, vitamins, minerals), sweeteners, aroma substances and maybe coloring matter. For making
the tablet, the effervescing substances are pelleted at lower
pressure and temperature and removal of water, then they are
mixed with the active substance
and finally pressed into tablet
form.
PT100 sample divider: Ref. No. 05
defined climatic conditions.For any
deviation from the prescribed quality often entails tremendous cost
to the producer.
Ensure free flow
All main properties of the pellet
product must be checked and analyzed particularly at the pilot batch
stage. A 1 or 2 kg sample is taken
from a 60 kg batch (1/10 production batch) and divided several
times in the PT100. Pellets of optimal composition have good flowing
Source: H zwo B
For over 30 years, market leader
Hermes has produced effervescent
tablets both as a drug and supplementary food. What presents itself
to the end user as a simple white tablet which – when placed in water
– dissolves with a fizz releasing the
property.This enables the pellets to
completely fill the mold for compression in industrial application.It
is important that the process is running without disturbance. The machines are running at rates of up to
1,000 tablets per minute, which
leaves about 1/20 of a second for filling the mold. If the pellets flow is
inconsistent, the pellet quantity
filled is of course not uniform and
the content of active material also
fluctuates. Dr. Dandl: ”The European pharmacopoeia allows deviation
up to 5 per cent.At a tablet weight
of, for example, 3.5 grams this does
not leave very much tolerance.
Therefore, the precision of the
sample is our primary requirement
on a lab device.Now we have found
a reliable solution in this sample divider.”
Fast and exact sample division is the
basis of all analytical activities in the
galenic laboratory.
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Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:53 Uhr Seite 10
Ap p l i c a t i o n |
THE
COFFEEHOUSE
In the testing laboratory of the Ulm-based Seeberger KG, the specialist for quality coffee and dried fruits, the AS 200 control „g“
analytical sieving machine guarantees consistently high quality
of ground coffee during grain-size analysis.
its brewing behavior“, explains Dr.
Stefan Ochs, laboratory head at Seeberger KG in Ulm.„Consequently,we
regularly monitor the grain-size distribution of ground coffee by means
of sieve analysis.“ This is important,
considering
if
the
coffee
beans are ground coarsely, the coffee will be tasteless, as the specific
surface of the coffee grains is too
small leading to insufficient flavo-
the
sample 10
No
19 |
01
Stefan Ochs, head of laboratory at
Seeberger KG: Fine coffee comes from
the best raw coffee beans, precise processing and a lot of experience.
COFFEE
Bild: H zwo B
Grain sizes of ground coffee are regularly checked in the laboratory with the
aid of a sieve analysis.
ring,bitters and acidity being washed
out with the aid of water.If the grain
size is too small the coffee grains agglomerate as a result of their tendency to bind with water. Moreover,
too many undesirable components
find their way into the coffee, thus
drowning the flavor and making it
taste very bitter.An excessively high
portion of powder in coffee (grains
smaller than 100 µm) causes the powder to collect in the filter machine, thus having an adverse effect on
the function of the coffee machine.
For decades, Seeberger has been implementing its own standards for
grinding. The Ulm-based company
grinds the brown beans into three
average grain sizes which are precisely determined, depending on the
type of preparation and adapted to
the different types of coffee machines.
Seeberger coffee comes in three
grain sizes – „fine“ (350 µm), „medium“ (420 µm) and „coarse“ (480
µm). „The three sizes are empirical
values which have turned out to be
optimal for our customers and their
preparation of coffee“, Dr. Ochs explains. Until recently, the know-how
necessary for grinding of coffee was
still personal quality knowledge,the
coffee being judged manually experienced specialists. By using the AS
200 control „g“ analytical sieving
machine, laboratory staff can dependably check the grain-size distribution, thus ensuring that the results are reproducible.The results also provide information about the
grinding fineness and therefore the
correct machine setting and possible wear and tear of the grinding
tooling. Dr. Ochs adds, „No less important for our laboratory is that the
machine is easy to use and consequently operator-friendly.“ As it is
difficult to sieve coffee as a result of
A mysterious powder – no other
legally permitted foodstuff contains such a high percentage of
unknown substances. Until now,
it was not possible to define chemically approx. 30 percent of all
Bild: H zwo B
Standards established by
Seeberger
SEEBERGER KG
Established in 1844 for colonial
commodities trading, Seeberger
KG is today one of the leading
processors and suppliers for high
quality dried fruit and coffee specialties. With a staff of over 300
employees, Seeberger has an annual sales revenue of approx. DM
120 million. The business segment coffee developed out of
Seeberger’s coffee roasting plant.
The processed raw coffee comes
from mountain regions in Kenya
and Central America. Seeberger is
the market-leading supplier for
restaurants and hotels in Southern Germany.A noteworthy fact
is that even Moscow’s high society drinks Seeberger coffee specialties.
Bild: H zwo B
Coffee is an enjoyable experience:A
good cup of coffee is characterized
by its aroma, richness and harmony
– whether it is Turkish style or brewed in a coffee machine. In fact,
many restaurants and hotels attach
great importance to the quality coffee for their guests, which is distinguished by its yield and stability
over a certain period.The quality of
the resulting drink is determined for
the most part by the composition of
the raw coffee and the grade of roasting.At Seeberger, the leading largescale high quality coffee roaster in
Southern Germany, several sorts of
coffee are „blended“ using high quality beans from various regions, in
other words – selected beans are mixed, roasted and then ground.
„Moreover, the grain size of the ground coffee is decisive for the pleasant aroma, the flavor, stability and
its physical properties, the contained sugar substances, (brittleness
and fat content which can also
cause the sieve to clog), sieving aids
in the form of brushes can ensure
long-term optimum analytical results. „Therefore, our coffee is always tested for high quality and we
can also say at all times,Taste the difference!“, says Dr. Ochs with grin
while reaching for the next cup of
premium coffee.
components of coffee. Known
constituents of coffee grains include water-soluble and water-insoluble polysaccharides, fats,
whereas the essential oils are partially responsible for the bitter
taste, glair, chlorogenic acids, water, caffeine, nicotine acid and vitamin B as well as over 1000 flavoring agents.
AS 200 control ”g ” analytical sieving
machine: Ref. No. 04
Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:53 Uhr Seite 11
| In t e r n a t i o n a l
UNDER
CALIFORNIA'S SUN
The name of the latest Retsch subsidiary is Retsch Inc. and it
resides in the Pacific West of the U.S.A.
Source: Retsch
Source: PhotoDisc
the smaller, specialized companies
are important pillars of the distribution network. Despite the fact
that U.S. distribution patterns resemble Europe, the competition situation is fundamentally different
in North America: Retsch is less
well known in the U.S.A. than it is
Another Retsch office started work
this year. Retsch Inc. has its registered place of business in Irvine, California, a city 30 miles south of Los
Angeles. Headed by Ms. Patricia
Jung, former International Sales Manager for Retsch, this subsidiary
will handle the complete support
and distribution of Retsch laboratory equipment in the United
States.„In the past our American customers did not receive sufficient
attention in terms of consulting ser-
Source: Retsch
In the in-house laboratory of Retsch Inc:
André Verder, chief of supervisory board
of the Verder Holding and Retsch GmbH
& Co. KG., is seen visiting the new subsisiary.
The Retsch logo is like a landmark pointing visitors the way to Retsch Inc.
vice and customer care:We had no
control of this important market
and sold only about one third of our
full product range. Lack of service
and high prices told on the sales figures“, explains Ms. Patricia Jung
the reason for Retsch setting up the
office. ”Sales used to be channeled
through an independent agent, but
we know from experience that
these manufacturers should handle
key markets themselves. Therefore
we decided that we should personally look after our American
customers.”
Like elsewhere, the big players in
the laboratory equipment trade in
America,such as Fisher Scientific or
VWR/Merck, are among the largest
customers of Retsch. However, also
in Europe. Besides, the sheer geographical size of the market makes
distribution activities very cost intensive. Add to this the other competitors and the high expectations
of our customers. Users in the US
expect a lot more user friendliness
and lower costs while looking less
for technical features, product
aesthetics or long life of the equipment.
ration with Horiba we were able to
pendable care of the American cususe synergy effects right from the
tomers. For the short production
start. Further, we took advantage of
times of Retsch products, the well
the local experience with dependastocked central warehouse in Gerble suppliers and communication
many as well as efficient transporpaths set up by our colleagues“,
tation logistics make it possible to
Jung judges
deliver any prothe successful ”Our assessment of the situation in disduct, be it a labostart of distri- tribution prior to setting up the agency
ratory device or a
bution activi- and first experience have shown that
spare, just as
ties. Despite the requirements for successful distribu- quickly as from a
the time diffe- tion in the North American market are
local godown.
rence of 9 quit different from what they are in EuRetsch Inc. has
hours the in- rope: The vast distances involved requi- recruited
two
formation ex- re a greater effort in customer care. Benew employees
change with sides, American users often take a diffe- to look after
Retsch in Haan, rent approach than users in Europe.
what is potentiala „must“ for They expect a laboratory device to be
ly the largest exeveryone in easy to handle and be of low cost,
tra-European
distribution, is whereas technical features or long sermarket. They, torunning smoo- vice life are less important.“
gether with Ms.
thly, thanks to
Patricia Jung, will
Patricia Jung
the internet
instill new life in
and the readiness of both sides to
the US marketing concept for
communicate even outside normal
Retsch in California's mild climate.
business hours.
Provide excellent service
Best conditions
The decision to site the agency in
the city of Irvine was taken in the
light of the nearness to major industrial areas in the emerging West of
the United States as well as the close cooperation with the US office
of Horiba, manufacturer of particle
sizing equipment and US agent for
Retsch' sister company, Retsch
Technology. Retsch Inc. rented
rooms in the building of Horiba Instruments and also recruited two
new employees who had been proposed by Horiba. „Through coope-
The performance spectrum of
Retsch Inc. comprises competent
and quick customer service, expert
technical advise, training of distribution partners, free processing of
customer-supplied samples in the
in-house application laboratory,and
demo equipment. A special feature
of Retsch Inc. is that Irvine will not
maintain a stock of equipment.This
allows the office to concentrate on
sales and marketing and keep cost
low.This will not be at the expense
of either the quality of customer
service or comprehensive and de-
CONTACT ADDRESS:
Retsch Inc.
Frau Patricia Jung
17651 Armstrong Avenue
Irvine, CA 92614
Phone +1 949 752 2004
Fax +1 949 752 2045
Email [email protected]
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Probe19_E 13.06.2001 12:54 Uhr Seite 12
D a t e s | Ac t i o n s | Re p o r t s
PEOPLE
IN
T R I U M V I R AT E
Source: Retsch
Since March 2000, Kenneth McCartney is technical director and member
of Retsch’s management team.As part of the top management, which
comprises altogether three members, the forty-two year old McCartney is
TEST ON TOUR
primarily responsible for research and development and in charge of
Design, Development and Production, Logistics, Storage and Distribution.
NEXT
ce, Kenneth McCartney knows that
ideas and a good staff are the key to
success. „The more we get the employees involved
in assuming responsibility for the
product and its
manufacturing,
the better our
company operates.” Many of the
technicians have
been in the business for a long
time, which is
very important to Kenneth McCartney: „People are filled with knowledge and that makes them important to us both personally and professionally.”With regard to Retsch’s
technological future, McCartney
plans to focus on the development
of laboratory equipment in particular for areas with a promising
future, such as biotechnology. Even
in his free time, Kenneth McCartney likes to keep track
Retsch’s laboratory bus is on the road again. All over Europe, interested parties
can visit it to see the latest developments and have samples prepared in the
completely equipped laboratory. Next dates are:
Source: Retsch
Unusual, but true: In search of adventure, the native Canadian traveled to Europe
in the late 70‘s,
deciding
to
stay in Germany – a step,
he does not regret to have taken.With twenty years of employment at
Retsch,the production manager and REFA
technician has
successfully filled positions in product development and in management. Based on his own experien-
LAP
Soccer revenge:After the unexpected defeat of the Retsch soccer
team against the team of the parent
company in summer 2000, a return
KW 18
(May 01 to 04, 2001)
in Belgium
KW 19/20
(May 07 to 19, 2001)
in Austria
KW 21
(May 21 to 26, 2001)
in Poland
KW 23
(Jun. 04 to 09, 2001)
in Denmark
KW 24
(Jun. 11 to 16, 2001)
in Sweden
KW 24/25
(Jun. 16 to 23, 2001)
in Norway
KW 26
(Jun. 25 to 30, 2001)
in Finland
To find out the exact locations, please contact our export department.
Phone ++49 (0) 2129 / 5561-0.
and look for new things.As a glider
enthusiast, he takes every opportunity to gain a bird’s eye view on
new fields in all parts of Germany.
IMPRINT
Published by
RETSCH GmbH & Co. KG
Rheinische Straße 36
D-42781 Haan
Germany
Phone ++49 (0) 2129 / 5561-0.
Fax ++49 (0) 2129 / 8702
Email [email protected]
match will be played in Haan. The
prospects are not bad for the team
hosting the match n 2001: In addition to sport-enthusiastic newcomers the Retsch soccer players started preparations early to be fit at
the time of the match.
AchemAsia
Beijing, China
Labtech-Entech 2001
Bangkok, Thailand
May 08 to 12, 2001
May 16 to 20, 2001
Analytica Latin America
Sao Paulo, Brazil
July 24 to 26, 2001
Editor-in-chief
Anke Seibel
Editorial team
Patricia Jung, Helmut Pitsch
Source: Retsch
Source: Comstock
TRADE SHOW DATES
Project coordination, realization
H zwo B
Ges. für Kommunikation
Schorlachstraße 27
D-91058 Erlangen
Germany
Tel +49-9131/812 81-0; Fax -28
E-Mail [email protected]
Art.Nr. 99.997.0019-E
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