How To Make A Measurement - Malvern Mastersizer Series Getting Started

C H A P T E R 3

How to make a measurement

P a g e 3 . 4
G e t t i n g S t a r t e d
"modes" or peaks in the graph. Several peaks in the graph indicate that there are
distinct sizes of particles within the sample. This "at a glance" inspection of the
results will be difficult if the result was shown as an undersize or oversize plot.
Another use for the frequency curve is to compare results from different
measurements - over-plotting results can be done using other graph types but the
graph may become confusing.
It is usual for the operator to use the software to setup a "sequence" that will
automatically go through the procedures above in one go. There is a large choice
of options when setting up a sequence, for example, you can easily arrange for the
Mastersizer to measure a single sample many times, each time analysing the
measurement data (using a pre-chosen presentation), saving the result and
over-plotting each result on a graph.
Alternatively you can go through each stage individually. Before you setup a
sequence it is important to understand the procedures in each stage. The
following section explains these procedures
It is vitally important that the measurement is carried out correctly. It should be
obvious that if you make a poor measurement then no amount of analyzing of the
data can give you a good result.
A brief note on each stage of the measurement follows. The practical procedures
for making the measurement is covered in chapter 4.
Setup for the measurement
The Malvern software will need to know some of the physical parameters
of the system, i.e. which lens is fitted or the type of sample preparation
accessory is attached.
Obviously this will only be done once and will only have to change if you
alter the physical setup, by changing a lens for example.
Align the optics
If the instrument has just been switched on or any of the optics have been
moved (removing and cleaning the cell for example) you will have to align
the laser so that it hits the centre of the detector. This is a totally automatic
procedure with the Mastersizer and only requires the pressing of a single
button.
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