Picoline

Machine for fine milling, classifying or mixing powders or suspensions
Comprises three components which are combined with each other: the platform, the function modules and the accessories
Various function modules
Was developed to process the smallest quantities of a few grams of product

Concept

And because these modules are derived from the established product lines of our own production systems, the user can rest assured that there will be no problems in scaling up a process developed with a picoline machine to a production scale.

Picoline machines are designed for ease of operation, maintenance and cleanability, and offer early-stage development opportunities.

Platform

The platform consists of a housing in an ergonomic table-top design laid out to accommodate the picoline function modules. The compact dimensions permit installation inside a laboratory fume hood. The platform surface is made of brushed stainless steel that is perfect for quick and easy cleaning. Not only is the standardised controller for all picoline function modules housed in a space-saving way but, dependent on the individual platform variant, also all electric and mechanical components necessary for operation of the respective function module. The media is supplied via an adapter, meaning that no tubes are necessary. The adapter is laid out for connection of all function modules. The advantage is that other modules can be added as and when desired.

Equipment details

Touch panel
Microprocessor, CAN bus, I/O ports, power pack
Mains switch, connection cable, 3 USB connections, 2 connectors
Pivoted media supply adapter to permit attachment of the respective machine to the platform (tiltable for picoliq and picobond)

Technical specifications

Dimensions (without function module and accessories): L 893 mm x W 616 mm x H 488 mm
Weight dependent on equipment: approx. 80 kg

Accessories

Dependent on the operating mode (continuous, batch) and the batch size, there are numerous peripheral units optionally available such as mixers, metering units, injector assemblies, product collectors, external fans or sealing liquid units which are laid out to suit your application.

Software

The system is controlled by means of a touch panel with integrated microprocessor housed in the platform. Once the user selects the respective function module, the stored control logic is automatically activated. Operating data, settings, system flowcharts and trend curves can be visualised on different display levels.
Every platform has a LAN interface for printer, remote control and for the connection to LIMS systems. The export of csv data files to USB memory sticks is also possible.

Applications

These mini machines are employed in research institutes as well as in the R&D departments of companies active in the fields of foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, plastics, ceramics, batteries, nanotechnology, functional materials as well as everywhere mini batches of powder need to be processed.

Function modules

picosplit

Ultrafine classifier
For the classification of dry powders by particle size

picozirk

Mechanical impact mill with integrated classifier
For the dry fine milling of soft to medium-hard materials with a steep particle size distribution

picojet

Fluidised bed opposed jet mill with integrated classifier
For the low contamination dry ultrafine milling of medium to hard materials
The design and principle of operation are almost identical with that of Alpine's AFG product line of fluidised bed opposed jet mills

picoplex

Mechanical impact mill
For the dry milling of soft to medium-hard materials
The design and principle of operation are largely identical with that of Alpine's UPZ Ultraplex fine impact mill product line

picocrush

Mechanical hammer mill
For the dry precrushing of large granules and agglomerates made of soft to mediumhard materials

picocross

2-rotor contra-rotating impact mill
For the dry milling of soft to medium-hard materials
The design and principle of operation are largely identical with that of Alpine's Contraplex impact mill C product line

picoliq

Agitated media mill
For the continuous or batchwise wet milling of particles in liquids

picobond

Mixing reactor
Designed to give a functional design to dry particles using a mechano-chemical process
The design and principle of operation are almost identical to that of the Alpine Nobilta product line

piconizer

Spiral jet mill
For the dry milling of soft to medium-hard materials
The design and principle of operation are largely identical with that of Alpine's Aeroplex spiral jet mill AS product line

picomix