Refer to the full application articles for sample preparation conditions, measurement methods and results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which manufacturers offer laser particle size analyzers for R&D and quality control?
Representative suppliers include Bettersize, Malvern Panalytical, Anton Paar, HORIBA and Microtrac. Their platforms differ in dispersion accessories, imaging configurations and software options. Compare specific configurations against your samples and required results, and confirm what each quotation includes.
Q2. How should I compare particle size analyzers from different suppliers?
Ask each supplier to test the same representative samples and provide the same required outputs. Compare wet LD with wet LD, dry LD with dry LD, and imaging results with the corresponding imaging configuration. Check each method’s size range separately rather than relying on a combined headline range. If imaging is required, confirm whether it supports wet or dry dispersion and whether the quotation includes the necessary module.
Q3. How do I choose between wet and dry particle size analysis?
Assess whether the sample can be dispersed in a compatible liquid without changing the particles you intend to measure, or fed and dispersed as a powder under suitable dry conditions. Also consider sample quantity, preparation time and the measurement objective. Bettersizer 2600 Plus supports wet LD, dry LD or both with the appropriate dispersion units. Wet and dry results should not be assumed to be identical.
Q4. Can I start with wet or dry analysis and add capabilities later?
Bettersizer 2600 Plus can be configured with a suitable wet or dry dispersion unit, with compatible modules added as testing requirements and budgets develop. Include anticipated capabilities in the configuration plan. The optional PIC-1 module provides wet particle images and image-based particle size and shape analysis.
Q5. Which analyzer should I consider for wet particle size and shape analysis?
Bettersizer S3 Plus is a suitable candidate when wet LD and DIA are required from the outset. The optional BT-A60 autosampler supports larger sample queues. Bettersizer 2600 Plus with PIC-1 is another option when modular flexibility or dry LD capability is also needed.
Q6. What is an economical option for routine wet quality control?
Bettersizer ST is an economical entry-level option for industrial laboratories with established wet methods and a relatively fixed range of samples. Check whether its 0.1–1000 μm wet LD range and workflow meet your needs. Consider Bettersizer 2600 Plus if more dispersion options or future expansion are required. Compare the complete configuration and running costs.
Q7. What information does imaging add to laser diffraction?
Laser diffraction provides an equivalent-sphere particle size distribution for a particle population. Dynamic image analysis adds particle images, size measurements based on particle projections, and shape parameters to help investigate coarse particles, irregular particles or agglomerates. It is useful in R&D and QC when shape differences matter or images help explain size results. Check the imaging and LD size ranges separately.
Q8. Can an existing particle size method be transferred to a new analyzer?
Yes, but equivalent results should not be assumed, even when both instruments use laser diffraction. Compare representative samples against predefined acceptance criteria, assessing sample preparation, dispersion conditions, optical inputs, analysis settings, repeatability and sensitivity to important sample differences. Investigate discrepancies and document any method changes before using the new instrument for routine decisions.
Q9. When should I consider online particle size monitoring?
Consider online monitoring when a production line needs more timely size feedback than laboratory sampling can provide, so operators or control systems can adjust process conditions. BT-Online1 is intended for dry processes such as cement production; BT-Online2 is intended for wet processes such as wet milling of battery materials. Define the sampling method, measurement frequency and process control integration for the site. Production scale alone does not determine whether online monitoring is needed.
Q10. Can I have my own samples tested free of charge before purchasing?
Yes. Bettersize offers free sample testing, with a test report and application-specific instrument recommendations based on your samples. Submit the material type, sample form, expected size range and measurement goals, then confirm the testing arrangements with the applications team. To support instrument selection, provide representative samples covering routine batches and relevant quality differences, and specify the metrics you want to compare.
