Micromeritics GeoPyc

Envelope volume and density of formed pieces and compressed powders

The Micromeritics GeoPyc provides fast, highly accurate, and reproducible envelope volume and density results while maintaining the integrity of your samples.

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Overview

The GeoPyc is an innovative benchtop instrument designed for precise and efficient determination of the envelope volume and density of solid objects without the use of hazardous materials. By employing DryFlo, a non-invasive solid medium, the GeoPyc delivers rapid, reliable, and consistent results while preserving the integrity of the sample. 

Additionally, it offers an optional Trans-Axial Pressure (T.A.P.) analysis for comprehensive evaluation of the compressed bulk density of powders. 

When combined with skeletal density measurements, the GeoPyc can also provide detailed information on the pore volume and porosity of formed pieces.

Features and benefits

  • Provides controlled-compression analysis with results in as little as 15 minutes
  • Ensures highly accurate and reproducible measurements
  • Maintains sample integrity during analysis
  • Uses DryFlo medium, free of hazardous materials, for safe and easy disposal
  • Intelligent touch panel for ease of operation and reporting
  • Fully automated data acquisition and reporting
  • Allows programming, storage, and reuse of numerous analysis method files
  • Measures envelope volume and density of formed pieces
  • Optional Trans-Axial Pressure (T.A.P.) analysis to determine the compressed bulk density of powders, complying with ASTM Test Method D8097
  • When combined with skeletal density, provides pore volume and porosity of formed pieces, such as roller compactor ribbons and sintered solids
  • Stand-alone operation capability
  • Results can be shared via email or accessed through a web browser
  • Data is available as printed reports or in downloadable CSV format
  • Easy cleaning and disposal of materials
  • User-replaceable piston tip for simple maintenance
  • No need for hazardous materials, reducing operating costs

System configurations

The GeoPyc T.A.P. density option obtains precise results comparable to conventional tap density analyzers, only it does it faster, quieter, and with a higher degree of reproducibility.

When equipped with the T.A.P. Density option, the GeoPyc measures the packing volume and calculates the bulk density of granular and powdered samples, including pharmaceutical and electrochemical materials, under a wide range of compaction conditions.

To determine T.A.P. density, the sample chamber is rotated and agitated while a precisely specified force is applied to the sample. A force transducer measures the consolidation force in Newtons and the distance over which the consolidation piston and plunger travel is measured in steps. The user specifies the force applied and the number of consolidations per analysis. The GeoPyc averages the measurements from each consolidation and automatically calculates volume and density, and reports the results in cm3 and g/cm3.

Specification

General

Reproducibility When sample volume is at least 25% of sample holder volume: Typically ± 1.1%

Pressure Measurement

Sample volume
12.7 mm ID: Sample volumes between 0.3 cm³ and 0.8 cm³
19.1 mm ID: Sample volumes between 0.8 cm³ and 2.4 cm³
25.4 mm ID: Sample volumes between 2.4 cm³ and 5.3 cm³
38.1 mm ID: Sample volumes between 5.3 cm³ and 13 cm³
50.8 mm ID: Sample volumes between 13 cm³ and 25 cm³

Physical

Height
11 in
Width
22 in
Depth
15 in
Weight
19 kg (42 lbs)

Electrical

Voltage
85 to 265 AC
Frequency
47 to 63 Hz
Power
95 VA

Environment

Temperature
15 °C to 35 °C
Humidity
20% to 80% non-condensing

Technology

The GeoPyc automatically determines the volume and density of a solid object by displacement of DryFlo, a solid medium. The medium is a narrow distribution of small, rigid spheres that have a high degree of flow ability and achieve close packing around the object under investigation. The particles are sufficiently small that during consolidation they conform closely to the surface of the object, yet do not invade pore space.

Repeatability and reproducibility are achieved by a controlled method of compaction. The sample cell in which the dry medium is placed is a precision cylinder. A plunger compresses the powder as the cell vibrates; the force of compression is selectable and, therefore repeatable from test to test. A preliminary compaction with only the displacement medium in the cell establishes a zero-volume baseline.

The sample is then placed in the cylinder with the dry medium and the compaction process is repeated. The difference in the distance at the piston penetrates the cylinder during the test and the distance h0 it penetrates during the baseline procedure (h=h0– ht ) is used to calculate the displacement volume of the medium using the formula for the volume of a cylinder of height h, V =π r2h.

The GeoPyc is operated from an intelligent touch screen. Data acquisition and reporting are fully automated for convenient incorporation in LIMS or other data-concentrating systems. A variety of sample chambers is available to accommodate a wide range of sample sizes. After the analysis, a light shaking or dusting completely removes the DryFlo so the samples can be reused or retested.

The GeoPyc has multiple operating modes including full blank, computed blank, and reference solid calibration with variance, which allows you to optimize speed and accuracy for your individual needs. During analysis, indications of progress and preliminary results make it possible to track what is occurring.

Software

The GeoPyc has multiple operational modes that are accessed through the instrument's smart touch screen. Operating modes include full blank, computed blank, and reference solid calibration with variance, which allows you to optimize speed and accuracy for your specific application. 

During analysis, indications of progress and preliminary results make it possible to track what is occurring. Sample-specific information can be entered into the analysis reports. 

Available Reports: 

  • Envelope Density
  • Volume Calibration
  • Blank Report
  • Force Calibration
  • Instrument Log

User manuals

Software downloads

Please contact support for the latest software version.

Envelope volume and density made simple.

Envelope volume and density made simple.

Precise and efficient analysis of solid objects and powders - without hazardous materials.

Request a quote Request a demo Contact sales