How to find the optimal particle counter?

Particle measurement technology is complex, and choosing the right particle counter requires careful consideration. Different liquids and applications can place different demands on the measuring devices. If you want to find the ideal particle counter for your application, you should familiarise yourself in advance with the key criteria and the specific requirements of your application.

Key Criteria for Selecting a Particle Counter

To ensure that the measuring device is optimally suited to your needs, consider the following aspects:

Type of Liquid

Each liquid has its own physical and chemical properties that influence the choice of sensor and materials used. Different particle counters are designed for different types of liquid, such as water-based or oil-based fluids.

Properties of the Liquid

The nature of the liquid – particularly its viscosity – determines the required pressure to pass it through the sensor measuring cell. Viscous substances need a stronger pump or lower flow rate than less viscous liquids, making certain sensors suitable. The temperature of the liquid is a relevant factor, as it can also affect the viscosity.

Particle Concentration

Particle concentration indicates how many particles are present in the liquid per millilitre. The choice of sensor and measurement technique depends on whether the liquid usually has a low or high particle count.

Particle Size

Knowing the size of the largest particles within the fluid is essential for the correct selection of sensor. For larger particles, the sensor needs a correspondingly larger measurement cell orifice to ensure that the particles can pass through without blocking the flow path.

Environmental Conditions

Depending on the application-specific requirements for particle measurement, there are three different types of particle counters:

1. Online particle counters that are permanently installed in systems and are used for continuous condition monitoring, including:

• PAMAS OLS4031
• PAMAS 4132
• PAMAS S50Series
• PAMAS OLS50P

2. Laboratory instruments designed for simplistic user-friendly measurements from sample bottles in the lab including:

• PAMAS SVSS
• PAMAS SBSS

3. Portable particle counters that offer high flexibility as they can be used both on-site and for online or offline measurements (bottle samples). Depending on the application, the working system pressure is also important when selecting the correct instrument. Portable particle counters include:

• PAMAS S40
• PAMAS S4031

Calibration and Service

Scheduled calibration of the particle counter confirms instrument accuracy and ensures standard-compliant measurements.

It is important to know which standard the manufacturer of the particle counter performs calibrations to and whether there is an after-sales support service available for the device.

The service warranty, calibration interval, and provision of a replacement device during the service period should also be clarified in advance.

Reliability and Support

PAMAS particle counters offer precise and reliable measurement technology.

The OptiCal Sciences team offer advice and support on all PAMAS Particle counters, along with ongoing support and servicing. Our experts assist in selecting the right device for your organisational requirements and provide reliable after-sales service for maintenance and calibration.

For further information, please visit our dedicated web page or contact our team directly:

Email:   info@optical-sciences.co.uk
Phone: +44 (0)1604 493200