sievetype

Sievetype is a term used in particle size analysis to categorize the specific sieve employed in a given test. It refers to the characteristics of the sieve, including its frame construction, the material of the frame and mesh, and the nominal aperture size, all of which influence the suitability of the sieve for particular materials and testing standards.

Construction and variants: Most sieves have a circular or square frame fitted with a mesh or perforated plate. Common frame materials include stainless steel, brass, or durable polymers, while the mesh is typically woven wire, perforated metal, or monofilament fabric. Aperture sizes are defined by standard series and are reported as nominal openings, often designated in millimeters or micrometers. Frame diameters commonly used in laboratories are around 200 mm or 300 mm.

Size range and standards: Standard test sieves span openings from about 75 mm down to 20 μm. Sievetype is defined, in part, by the labeled opening size and by compliance with standards such as ASTM E11 and ISO 3310, which specify nomenclature, dimensions, tolerances, and testing procedures.

Applications: Sievetype is central to sieve analysis in geology, construction materials testing, mining, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, enabling determination of particle size distributions for quality control and research.

Operation and maintenance: Dry sieving is typical for granular materials, though wet sieving may be used for fine or cohesive samples. After use, sieves are cleaned to remove residues and stored properly; damaged sievetype components should be replaced to maintain accuracy.

Limitations: Sieve analysis assumes free-flowing, non-cohesive particles; moisture, clumping, or fines can bias results. The choice of sievetype and adherence to procedure are critical for valid conclusions.

See also: Sieve, Sieve analysis, Particle size distribution.