TIDAS Hegman Gauge Analyser
Article No. 15482
TIDAS Hegman Gauge Analyser
TIDAS is a bench-top system that automates the traditional grind-o-meter test, providing in-depth particle data and an objective, repeatable reading every time.
Features
- Revolutionary for particle size analysis due to its robust, low-maintenance design, super-sharp imaging, customizability and versatility
- Determines fineness of grind objectively using an integrated camera and a darkfield illumination technique to capture the result
- It automates the analysis of a wide range of samples using a Hegman gauge and incorporates an array of diverse technologies to automate both the drawdown and the reading of the Hegman gauge to determine grind quality
- Each reading takes less than 20 seconds and will reproduce the exact same reading for the same dispersion, every time
- Determines optimum processing time for pigments and powders, and eliminates over-processing costs without compromising quality
- Analyzes clear and metallic materials, notoriously difficult to rate by eye
- Compatible with any liquid sample, battery materials, paints, pigments, inks, resins, sealants, graphene, polymers, cosmetics, food, ceramics, solder pastes, additives, minerals, clear and metallic liquids and much more.
- The analysis process uses an intuitive algorithm and precise photo capture techniques to ensure the readings are stable and reliable and the system integrates a high-definition line scan camera, which contributes to the generation of distortion-free images and every capture is digitally stored
More Information
A traditional Hegman test is entirely subjective and prone to human variance - from the drawdown application itself, to lighting conditions, eyesight health and simple human judgement. TIDAS captures a raw image of the dispersion which is digitally analysed. The exact number of particles per micron slice are counted, which provides a defined and repeatable reading.
Many products from the coatings industry begin life as a powder or pigment. These raw ingredients are ground down to standard which means running costly factory processes. Represented by a typical, exponential grind curve, even small reductions in particle size can take a very long time to achieve. Small variations from human error, can translate to huge wasted costs from unnecessary over processing. Determining the optimum grinding time eliminates this risk.
The dark field illumination technique is used to capture the image of the dispersion on the Hegman gauge. This works by shining a beam of light at a low angle onto the gauge, and the scattered light (caused by the uneven surface of the particles) is eliminated from the image, essentially providing a perfect negative photo. This provides a precise and detailed capture of the particle sizes and quantities which is then analyzed by a customized algorithm. Integral to the operational mechanics, are encoded stepper motors that propel both the gauge and blade axes. These motors are orchestrated by purpose-built motor drivers, facilitating precise and replicable movements for both the gauge and blade components.
The TIDAS software is designed to eliminate dust, bubbles and foaming from the dispersion. It can also robustly take readings from clear and metallic materials which are notoriously difficult to rate by eye, owing to the dark field illumination technique used to capture the image. TIDAS’s dedicated software can be customised to match your requirements allowing you to set ratings and more. TIDAS works with a wide range of gauge sizes to suit your existing workflow. As well as an overall rating, the software can be configured to report various data, including the number of particles within set areas, or even per micron slice. It is distinguished by its wealth of features and high degree of configurability. This software package empowers users with a versatile toolkit for tailored operation and analysis. The raw image captured is presented alongside the digital analysis, and the micron count. The count identifies the exact number of particles per micron slice, which provides a defined and repeatable rating. Data for every drawdown is automatically stored and can be exported for deeper analysis if required. Users are able to preset TIDAS to automatically produce a pass or fail against their quality standards. Each drawdown takes around 20 seconds to produce the result.