ASTM E3338-22

4.1?This guide is intended to inform those who have need for particle analysis data of their product or process, how imaging technology, in the form of a DIA, can be employed to provide the required information for a wide range of processes and material types. It expands on dynamic imaging information provided in Guide E2651 which is a broad view of particle analysis methods.

4.2?This guide can be used to assess the suitability of the technology to particular applications as well as any limitations that may be encountered. It is also intended to help the user make an informed decision on how to best use the technology to make the measurement(s) most important in providing data that best describes the process or product.

4.3?Determining particle shape of materials such as proppants, catalysts, additive manufacturing powders, and many more materials, is critical to their performance. Imaging technology can provide a consistent assessment of shape factors based on objective criteria and a statistically significant number of particles analyzed. Human visual methods generally compare a small number of particles to a standard leaving room for subjective interpretation.

4.4?Determining particle count, size and shape are important in assessing contamination of fluids such as fuels, lubricating oils, water, injectables, and other liquids where particle contamination can affect their performance. Particle shape can point to the type and source of these particles which can help analysts improve process control.

4.5?Shape information is also advantageous in categorizing particles detected so as to not skew particle analysis results. For instance, if a flowing mixture of solid particles in liquid also contains gas bubbles or water droplets, it is important to be able to identify the bubbles and droplets and not count them as solid particles.

1.1?This guide provides information for determining particle size and shape using Dynamic Imaging Analyzers (DIA) in multiple application points including in-line, at-line and stand alone, lab based or portable, configurations. This guide focuses on concepts and strategies for applying imaging techniques to process applications in a way that improves the knowledge of the particles contained in dynamic flows, dry and wet, which can lead to more improved control of manufacturing processes.

1.2?Analyzers may be configured for open, dry or wet analysis, or enclosed, dry or wet analysis, as appropriate for analysis of the process or test specimen. Particles in liquid borne flows can be analyzed at least up to 1000 ?m and dry particle flows can be analyzed up to several cm if equipment is appropriate for the size. Limitations will be discussed in Section 6.

1.3?The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4?This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5?This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.