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Recent trials have demonstrated that the Parsum inline particle size analyzer (Malvern Instruments) can be used successfully to monitor particle growth in a fluidized bed. As part of a joint development project between Glatt Ingenieurtechnik GmbH, Weimar, and Parsum GmbH, Chemnitz, the use of inline particle size measurement was investigated, under various operating conditions.

Complex flow regimes, high humidity and a very broad particle size distribution combine to make the measurement of particles within this environment a significant challenge. In tests involving the monitoring of lactose granulation the Parsum probe tracked particle growth throughout the entire process, generating data that opens up options for automated control.

Fluidized bed granulation is a widely used unit operation, particularly in the pharmaceutical, food and speciality chemical industries, but process control is frequently problematic and based on operator experience or trial and error rather than effective monitoring. Inline analysis and automated control can deliver dramatic efficiency gains and improvements in product quality/consistency; the key is finding analyzers that meet the requirements of the application.