Differential and Cumulative Particle Size Distribution Analysis using Home Made Sieving Equipment

Abstract

Particulate solids remain the most commonly used materials in the industry due to their characteristics, such as stability, purity, and ease of transportation. Particle size is one of the physical characteristics of a particulate solid that may affect its chemical characteristics. Hence, understanding particle size will give a better insight into a solid material's physical and chemical properties. The oldest method to determine particle size is using a siever to separate particles in bulk based on their size, more commonly called Particle Size Distribution (PSD).

This research aimed to design home-made sieving equipment for particle size analysis. The sieving equipment was made out of acrylic and four different mesh sizes to help separate particles based on the opening of each mesh. In addition, an agitator table was also built to help the particle flow smoothly along the silver based on its particle size. Six different materials were chosen to be tested using the newly built equipment: table salt, whey powder, wheat flour, coarse coffee ground, cement, and chalk dust. Based on the sieve analysis, cement and chalk dust showed consistent particle size uniformity compared to other materials. With limitations such as broad mesh sizes, it is recommended to have more mesh sizes to get better particle size distribution of the sample.