ChE 3215

Particle Technology Lab

Measurement of Particle Size Distribution Using Vibrating Sieve

NAME
Azhan Fayaz Alvee

STUDENT ID
2029015

DATE OF SUBMISSION

18 November, 2024
ABSTRACT
The aim of this experiment was to determine the particle size distribution (PSD) of a
granular sample using a vibrating sieve. By separating particles into specific size ranges,
the analysis provided insight into the physical properties of the material.

A 220.25 g semolina sample was passed through a series of sieves with decreasing aperture
sizes, and the mass retained on each sieve was measured. The results were analyzed by
graphical representations, including histograms, cumulative distribution curves, and
fractional distribution plots in both linear and logarithmic scales.

The data highlighted the predominance of larger particles, with 87% of the sample retained
on the largest sieve of 0.50 mm.

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INTRODUCTION
The particle size distribution (PSD) is a fundamental parameter in various process
industries, as it influences material properties such as flowability, strength, and reaction
rates(Liu et al., 2024). One of the most common and efficient method for determining
particle size is sieve analysis(Nijhu et al., 2024). Sieve analysis a method that uses sieves
with variable mesh sizes to separate particles into distinct size fractions. In this experiment
a vibrating sieve was used to determine the PSD.

A stack of sieves with varying mesh sizes

are arranged to distribute the particles
coarser to finer(Pamparana et al., 2024).
The accuracy and efficiency of the
process is enhanced by the vibrating
motion. A sample is placed at the top
sieve for further distribution. Each sieve
catches particles of specific size ranges.
Finally, the distribution is completed by
measuring the mass of retained
Figure 1.1: Vibrating Sieve particles(Wu et al., 2025).

For several uses, including figuring out the mechanical strength of soils, comprehending
the porosity and packing of materials, and streamlining procedures in sectors like
construction, food processing, and pharmaceuticals, the measurement of particle size
distribution is essential. We hope to have practical experience with particle analysis
techniques and improve our comprehension of how particle size distribution impacts
material qualities by carrying out this experiment. The measurement of particle size
distribution is crucial for various applications, such as determining the mechanical strength
of soils, understanding the porosity and packing of materials, and optimizing processes in
industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and construction. By conducting this
experiment, we aim to enhance our understanding of how particle size distribution affects
material properties and gain hands-on experience in particle analysis methods.

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EXPERIMENTAL SETUP
Figure 1.2 shows the basic components of vibrating sieve.

Figure 1.2: Schematic Diagram of Vibrating Sieve

The main components of the apparatus are;

• Top Cover - The topmost component of the shaker that protects the sieve stack.

• Round Handle - A handle used to tighten the setup and maintain stability.

• Tighten the handle - adjusted to keep the sieve basket in place. Screws are used to
securely fasten components together.

• Sieve Basket - The area where many sieves are arranged to separate items based
on size.

• Vibrating Tray - Supports the sieve basket and vibrates to aid in the screening
operation.

• The switch turns the motorized shaker on and off.

• Vibration Motor - Creates vibrations for the sieving process, resulting in effective
material separation.

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PROCEDURE
The following procedure was followed during the experiment;
I. Initially, 220 g of dried semolina was weighed.
II. Then the sample was put in the top sieve of the vibrating sieve stack.
III. The opening was covered up.
IV. The time was set to 10 minutes.
V. Then the vibrating process initiated by turning on the switch.
VI. Finally, the retained mass of each sieve was measured.

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DATA TABLE
Table 1.1: Data obtained for sieve analysis

Mass of the sample: 220.25 g

Sieve Opening Mass %Mass Average Mass
(mm) Retained Retained Particle Fraction
(g) Size (mm) Retained
4 0.50 190.90 87 _ 0.87
3 0.40 9.25 4 0.45 0.042
2 0.25 8.55 3.9 0.325 0.039
1 0.20 0.02 0.009 0.225 0.0001
Pan 0.00 9.50 4.3 0.10 0.043

The Table 1.1 presents data obtained from a sieve analysis, used to determine the particle
size distribution of a granular material sample. Here 220.25 g of semolina sample was used.

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RESULT & DISCUSSION

The results of the cumulative analysis are shown in graphical form, incorporated in the
form of a histogram (Figure 1.3), cumulative distribution curve (Figure 1.4), fractional
distribution curve (Figure 1.5), semi-log and log-log plot of fractional distribution (Figure
1.6-1.7).

Figure 1.3: Histogram

Figure 1.4: Cumulative Distribution Curve

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 Figure 1.5: Fractional Distribution Curve

Figure 1.6: Semi-log plot of Fractional Distribution Curve

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 Figure 1.7: Log-log plot of Fractional Distribution Curve

The graphical analysis presented here provides insight into the particle size distribution
from the sieve analysis. Figure 1.3 shows the predominance of larger particles in the
sample. The data indicates that the majority of the sample (almost 87%) consists of
particles larger than 0.50 mm, retained on the first sieve. Smaller percentages correspond
to finer particles, retained on the lower sieves. This distribution helps in assessing the size
range of particles in the sample.

Similarly, the curve in Figure 1.4 differentiates the mass fractions above and below specific
particle sizes. The data suggests a gradual decline in cumulative mass fraction as particle
size decreases, indicating significant amounts of larger particles relative to smaller ones.

Finally, the plots in Figure 1.5-1.7 offer alternative visualizations of the fractional
distribution curve, providing a clearer view of particle size distribution trends on normal
and logarithmic scales. The lowest mass fraction retained is around 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm.
Thus, the plots emphasize the variations in finer particle sizes more distinctly, useful for
analyzing finer distributions.

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COCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
From the experiment, the particle size distribution of the granular sample was successfully
determined. The graphical analysis provided clear trends in size distribution, with most
particles exceeding 0.50 mm in diameter, highlighting the prevalence of larger particles in
the material. These findings are valuable for understanding the mechanical properties,
porosity, and potential applications of the material in industries such as construction, food
processing, and pharmaceuticals.

Future experiments could benefit from a larger sample size and more precise weighing
equipment to reduce potential errors. A more comprehensive understanding of finer particle
distributions can be done by expanded analysis; including additional sieves with smaller
aperture sizes would provide better results. Moreover, automating the sieving process and
data collection could enhance consistency and minimize human error.

By integrating these recommendations, further studies can improve the precision and
applicability of particle size analysis in various fields.

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REFERENCES
Liu, J., Xu, N., Shi, D., Cao, Y., Zhang, T., Zhong, K., Zhao, Q., & Bian, S. (2024).
Preparation, Characterization, and Adsorption Performance of H 2 TiO 3 Lithium Ion
Sieves with Homogeneous Nanoparticles: Kinetics, Thermodynamics, and
Mechanism Analysis. ChemistrySelect, 9(39). https://doi.org/10.1002/slct.202402440

Nijhu, R. S., Khatun, A., & Hossen, Md. F. (2024). A comprehensive review of particle
size analysis techniques. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and
Development, 6(1), 01–05. https://doi.org/10.33545/26646862.2024.v6.i1a.37

Pamparana, G., Klein, B., & Bergerman, M. G. (2024). Impact of the feed particle size
distribution and its packing characteristics on compression comminution. Minerals
Engineering, 218, 108934. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.MINENG.2024.108934

Wu, Y., Tang, H., Zhang, Y., & Wang, D. (2025). The effect of particle size distribution on
the collapse of wet polydisperse granular materials. Computers and Geotechnics, 177,
106854. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.COMPGEO.2024.106854

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