Rotary Sample Divider

What is the Rotary Sample Divider?

A rotary sample divider feeds material onto a spinning cone or disc that distributes it evenly among collection vessels. It handles larger masses and is less sensitive to particle size than a riffle splitter.

Overview

A rotary sample divider feeds the sample onto a rotating cone or disc, which spreads the material outward so that it falls into a ring of collection vessels in sequence. Because each vessel receives material from many passes, the portions are very similar in composition even for larger particles and batch masses. The number of vessels sets the dividing ratio, and an adjustable feed rate keeps distribution even. Rotary dividers handle several kilograms or more, can be fed from a hopper and are available with automated operation. They are used where large samples must be reduced to a manageable laboratory portion with minimal bias.

How does it work?

A sample divider reduces a large sample to a smaller one that has the same composition as the original. Riffle dividers pour material through a series of alternating chutes that direct it into two equal trays, and the process is repeated until the required mass remains. Rotary dividers feed material onto a rotating cone or disc so that particles are distributed evenly around collection vessels in turn. Slurry dividers split flowing suspensions using chutes, cutters or rotating scoops. Vibratory dividers spread the material in a uniform layer before splitting. Because division depends on the geometry of the device rather than on manual selection, bias is reduced and reproducibility is improved.

What are the key features?

• Rotating cone or disc for even distribution
• Multiple collection vessels set the ratio
• Handles large masses and coarser particles
• Adjustable feed rate for uniform splitting
• Automated operation option

What are the technical specifications?

A typical rotary sample divider configuration offers number of vessels of 8–20, max particle size of Up to 40 mm, sample capacity of 2–100 kg, dividing ratio of 1:8 to 1:20, feed rate of Adjustable, up to 100 kg/h and rotation speed of 20–100 rpm. Values are indicative of the product class; the exact figures for each configuration are confirmed on the quotation and the calibration documents supplied with the instrument.

Which applications is it used for?

The Rotary Sample Divider is used in mining and ore bulk sample splitting, aggregate and cement sampling, environmental bulk material preparation and large agricultural sample reduction. Across the wider Sample Dividers class, laboratories also deploy it for mining and ore sample splitting, agricultural soil and grain sampling and cement, aggregate and mineral analysis.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include ISO 3310-1, ASTM E11, ISO 6497, ISO 2591-1 and IEC 61010-1. Certification candidates for this model are CE and ISO 9001 manufacturing; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Reduce particle size and mix the sample before dividing, because a divider cannot make a non-uniform sample representative. Feed at a controlled, even rate and do not overload the device, since excess material causes uneven splitting. Repeat the division in stages to reach the required mass rather than trying to split too far in one pass. Clean the divider thoroughly between samples, and use inert or easily cleaned materials where trace analysis is involved. Verify the performance of the device by dividing a sample and checking that replicate sub-samples give consistent analytical results, and record the procedure in the method.

How do I select the right Rotary Sample Divider?

Choose a rotary divider for large masses or coarser particles where a riffle splitter would be biased or overloaded. Confirm the vessel count gives the required ratio, the feed size is accepted and the throughput matches the workload. In an RFQ state the sample mass, particle size, vessel number and whether automated feeding is needed.

How does it compare with other Sample Dividers variants?

Choose a divider according to the sample form and mass. Riffle dividers suit free-flowing dry powders and granules and are simple and reliable, but they must not be overloaded or the chutes will bias the split. Rotary dividers handle larger masses and are less sensitive to particle size, and they can be automated. Slurry dividers suit suspensions and process streams where the sample must be split while flowing. Vibratory dividers spread cohesive or fine material so that a uniform layer is fed to the splitter. Confirm the feed size the divider accepts, the dividing ratio, whether the sample is dry or wet, and the required throughput. The device should be easy to clean to avoid cross-contamination.