HP-SKM: Automatic oscillating ball mill

Automatic clamping of the grinding bowl

The unique design of the HP-SKM with automatic clamping eliminates the need for time-consuming and cumbersome manual fixing of the grinding bowl.

This relieves laboratory staff of tedious and inefficient routine tasks. In a laboratory automation system, the loading and unloading of the grinding vessels can be completely taken over by a robot, so that operator intervention is no longer necessary.

The patented clamping mechanism of the HP-SKM not only guarantees reliable and secure clamping of the grinding bowl, but also ensures that the grinding bowl is completely closed by pressing on the grinding bowl lid. No ground material escapes.

The grinding jar is placed on the conical mandrels of the grinding jar holder via the openings on the side arms. It is then clamped with the help of the two clamping fingers, which are guided over the grinding jar lid and press it down at the same time. A spring mechanism holds the clamping fingers in position and prevents the grinding bowl from moving. The spring force is designed in such a way that the grinding vessel seal retains even the smallest grain size fractions highly effectively.
Sensors monitor the correct positioning of the grinding vessel and the clamping process. This prevents incorrect operation of the machine by the operator and ensures proper operation within an automatic system.

Integration of the HP-SKM into automated laboratory systems

The HP-SKM is the only vibratory ball mill that can be operated fully automatically in a robot-supported laboratory system. The outer contour of the HP-SKM grinding vessels is specially designed for handling by a multi-axis robot. Grooves on the side of the grinding vessel arms enable reliable handling both in the machine and within the system. When the HP-SKM is operated automatically, the machine flap is opened automatically by means of a pneumatic cylinder. Thanks to the programmable logic controller of the HP-SKM, integration into the higher-level control system of a plant is particularly easy.

The range of functions of a robot automation system can be further expanded with additional optional components. In a separate emptying unit, the sample material is transferred from the grinding vessel after grinding is complete and made available for further sample preparation and subsequent analysis (optional). In the cleaning unit, the grinding balls are removed and cleaned in the same way as the grinding vessel body and lid (optional).

Manual use of the HP-SKM

As a stand-alone machine, the HP-SKM is also ideal for manual operation. The grinding vessel is inserted and removed by the operator himself. A gas pressure spring on the machine flap allows the operator to open and close the machine effortlessly.

The grinding program can be selected via a large, convenient control panel. Alternatively, a program can also be started via quick selection using the programmable buttons on the front of the machine. The HP-SKM can also be retrofitted quickly and easily for automated operation and integrated into an automatic system.

Laboratory equipment with outstanding ergonomics and ease of maintenance

The use of an HP-SKM makes work considerably easier for laboratory staff and significantly increases the efficiency of laboratory processes. Even when used as a standalone machine. But especially when integrated into a fully automatic robot automation system.

Due to design optimization and effective insulation of the machine housing, the noise emission of the HP-SKM is extremely low. The HP-SKM can therefore be operated in a laboratory environment without any problems.

The HP-SKM has a high level of safety: unintentional opening of the machine flap during grinding vessel clamping and grinding is prevented by a safety switch with guard locking. The sensor-supported monitoring of the machine also ensures that all processes on the HP-SKM are completely safe.

All areas of the machine are easily accessible for maintenance and service work. The cladding can be easily removed and refitted at all critical relevant points. Components that are subject to wear can be easily replaced by qualified specialist personnel. 

Highest performance for a variety of different industries and applications

The HP-SKM covers the complete application spectrum of a vibratory ball mill. The grinding speed can be infinitely adjusted up to a maximum frequency of 35 Hz. This means that even more demanding applications are possible with the HP-SKM. The maximum volume of the chrome steel grinding vessels is 125 ccm. Smaller volumes of 50 and 80 ccm are also available.