Particle Counter and Size Analyzer - Multisizer 4e

Multisizer 4: The Most Versatile and Precise Particle Counter and Size Analyzer

A particle counter is a device used to count and measure the concentration of particles in a liquid or gas sample. It is widely used in industrial and laboratory environments to monitor product quality and purity by detecting the presence and quantity of suspended particles.

The Multisizer 4 is the most versatile and precise particle counter and particle size distribution analyzer available on the market. It employs the renowned Coulter Principle , also known as Electrical Sensing Zone (ESZ). This principle provides size distributions by number, volume, or surface area, covering a range from 0.2 to 1600 µm. The results are not influenced by particle color, shape, composition, or refractive index.

Coulter Principle: High Resolution and Precision in the Particle Counter

The Coulter Principle , the leading technology in high resolution and precision, is further enhanced in the Multisizer 4e with the use of Digital Pulse Processing (DPP). DPP offers high resolution and precision in multi-channel analysis, outperforming other technologies. This makes the Multisizer 4e indispensable for quality control and research projects involving particle size and count analysis.

Advanced Features of the Multisizer 4e

The Multisizer 4e boasts a series of features that distinguish it as a cutting-edge particle counter . Key highlights include:

• Automatic Aperture Unlocking : Facilitates use and ensures uninterrupted operations.
• Barcode Reader : Allows for quick and accurate sample identification.
• Dynamic Size Measurement : Real-time monitoring of particle size changes.
• Intuitive Software : Easy to use, allows for recounting and particle size distribution analysis in absolute number or concentration.
• High Resolution : Offers up to 400 channels for precise detection of size variations.
• Analysis of Precise Volumes : Capability to analyze sample volumes between 50 µL and 2000 µL with a mercury-free hydraulic circuit.

The Coulter Principle in the Particle Size Analyzer

The Coulter Principle is a proven technique for particle size analysis, used in over 6,000 bibliographic references. In this principle, particles suspended in an electrolyte solution pass through a small aperture, creating a change in impedance. This change generates a pulse that is digitally processed, allowing for the generation of an accurate size distribution.

Applications of the Multisizer 4e Particle Counter

The Multisizer 4e is widely used across various industries due to its versatility and precision. Its applications include:

• Cell Biology : Monitoring cell size, size distribution, and cell count.
• Food Industry : Counting and sizing bacteria and yeasts.
• Electronics Industry : Analysis of CMP (Chemical Mechanical Polishing) slurries.
• Photocopy Industry : Control of ink and toner particle size.
• Abrasives Industry : Monitoring size and distribution of abrasive grains.
• Filtration Industry : Evaluation of filtration system efficiency.
• Environmental Monitoring : Counting sub-visible particles, such as for monitoring according to USP 788.

Proven Technology in Particle Counting

With over half a century of experience, the Coulter Principle and the technology used in the Multisizer 4e are backed by more than 6,000 documented references and nine approved ASTM methods. Furthermore, the technology is recognized by the International Standard ISO 13319 for accurate particle size and count determination.

Superior and Eco-Friendly Design

The design of the Multisizer 4e is modern, elegant, and functional, with fully software-controlled operation. The sample management system (Smart Technology) ensures high consistency in analyses. Additionally, the equipment is environmentally friendly, featuring a mercury-free measurement system suitable for use in dusty environments.

Digital Pulse Processing (DPP) in the Particle Size Analyzer

The Multisizer 4e employs Digital Pulse Processing (DPP), a patented technology that offers maximum flexibility in data analysis. Unlike analog systems, DPP stores and saves all generated data without loss of information, allowing for detailed re-analysis at any time. This ensures consistently high resolution and the ability to adjust settings according to specific analysis needs.

Intuitive and Convenient Software

The Multisizer 4e software is designed for both beginners and experienced users. For new users, simple assistants aid in setup and reporting of results. Advanced users have quick access to all settings through intuitive dialog boxes. The "Create Sample Specifications" feature allows for the definition of precise specifications for samples, with highlights for out-of-specification results.

V-Check Program: Quality Assurance in the Particle Counter

V-Check is a comprehensive program covering all aspects of the product life cycle, from development to instrument verification and validation. With V-Check, Beckman Coulter ensures that the Multisizer 4e is capable of delivering accurate and reliable results, meeting the most rigorous quality demands.

Conclusion

The Multisizer 4e is more than just a particle counter ; it is a particle size analyzer that offers state-of-the-art technology, unparalleled precision, and flexibility. Whether for research, quality control, or industrial applications, the Multisizer 4e is the ideal choice for those who need reliable and detailed results in particle counting and size analysis.

FAQ: Multisizer 4e - Particle Counter and Size Analyzer

1. What is a particle counter?

A particle counter is a device used to count and measure the concentration of particles in a liquid or gas sample. It is widely used in industrial and laboratory environments to monitor product quality and purity by detecting the presence and quantity of suspended particles.

2. What is a particle size analyzer?

A particle size analyzer is an instrument that measures the size and distribution of particles in a sample. It provides essential data on particle uniformity and characteristics, which are crucial in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, and materials to ensure final product quality.

3. What is the Coulter Principle?

The Coulter Principle is a measurement method that detects and counts particles in suspension by measuring changes in electrical impedance as particles pass through a small aperture. This principle is the basis for many particle counters, such as the Multisizer 4e, and is widely recognized for its accuracy and reliability in particle size and count analysis.

4. What is the Multisizer 4e?

The Multisizer 4e is a particle counter and size analyzer that uses the Coulter Principle to measure and analyze particles over a wide size range, from 0.2 to 1600 µm. It is widely used across various industries to obtain precise size distributions by number, volume, or surface area.

5. How does the Coulter Principle work in the Multisizer 4e?

The Coulter Principle works by measuring changes in electrical impedance as particles suspended in an electrolyte solution pass through a small aperture. These changes generate electrical pulses that are digitally processed, enabling accurate particle counting and size analysis.

6. What are the main applications of the Multisizer 4e?

The Multisizer 4e is used in a variety of industries, including:

• Cell biology for monitoring cell size and count.
• Food industry for analysis of bacteria and yeasts.
• Electronics industry for control of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP).
• Photocopy industry for toner size control.
• Environmental monitoring per USP 788.

7. What are the main features of the Multisizer 4e?

Key features include:

• Automatic aperture unlocking.
• Barcode reader for sample identification.
• Dynamic size measurement for real-time monitoring.
• Intuitive software with setup assistants.
• High resolution with up to 400 detection channels.

8. Can the Multisizer 4e perform real-time analysis?

Yes, the Multisizer 4e has dynamic analysis capability, allowing real-time monitoring of particle size changes during processes.

9. What sample volumes can the Multisizer 4e analyze?

The Multisizer 4e can analyze sample volumes between 50 µL and 2000 µL, offering flexibility for different types of analysis.

10. How does the Multisizer 4e ensure result accuracy?

Accuracy is ensured by the use of Digital Pulse Processing (DPP), which stores all data without loss of information. This allows for detailed re-analysis and adjustments as needed, guaranteeing precise results in every analysis.

11. Is the Multisizer 4e environmentally friendly?

Yes, the Multisizer 4e is designed to be environmentally friendly, featuring a mercury-free measurement system, making it safe for use in sensitive and dusty environments.

12. What is the V-Check Program?

The V-Check Program is a verification and validation system covering the entire product life cycle, from development to maintenance. It ensures the Multisizer 4e complies with the most rigorous quality standards, providing reliable and accurate results.

13. Is the Multisizer 4e suitable for pharmaceutical analyses?

Yes, the Multisizer 4e is widely used in pharmaceutical analyses, including monitoring sub-visible particles in compliance with USP <787> and <788> standards, essential for quality control of injectable pharmaceutical products.

14. How does the Multisizer 4e software facilitate use for new users?

The Multisizer 4e software is highly intuitive, with setup assistants that guide new users step-by-step, facilitating configuration and result analysis.

15. What is the advantage of the Multisizer 4e compared to other particle counters?

The main advantage of the Multisizer 4e is the combination of high resolution, precision, and versatility, provided by Digital Pulse Processing and the ability to analyze a wide range of particle sizes, making it superior to other systems available on the market.

16. Does the Multisizer 4e require frequent maintenance?

The Multisizer 4e is designed to minimize maintenance needs, with features like automatic aperture unlocking reducing the frequency of manual intervention. However, like any laboratory equipment, it should undergo regular checks to ensure optimal performance.

Technical Bulletin: Quality Control