1.2 Grinding with a Cyclone Mill (Udy, Cyclotec or equivalent) >>

1.1 Grinding with a Cutting Mill (Wiley or equivalent)

Safety Precautions:

• Wear a dust mask and avoid inhaling dust.
• Do not insert fingers or objects into the grinding mill.
• Observe all safety and operating instructions supplied by the manufacturer.

Procedure:

1. Inspect the mill for cleanliness.
2. Insert the appropriate screen into the mill. If a fine grind is desired, most samples are ground with the 1 mm screen. If large samples are to be ground, it may be faster to grind them using a 4 to 6 mm screen and then regrind using the 1 mm screen.
3. Latch the door in place. Do not overtighten to avoid the rotor binding against the door.
4. Insert the sample receiving container into place.
5. Close the feeding gate at the top of the mill.
6. Turn on the switch.
7. Add sample to the feeding chute. Partially open the feeding gate to allow sample to enter, then shut the gate. If necessary, push sample into the mill with a spatula or wooden plunger with stop to prevent entry into grinder knives.
8. After the first portion has been ground (listen for the "empty" higher pitched sound), feed another portion into the mill.
9. Allow the mill to run for at least two min after the last portion has been added to ensure that the entire sample has passed through. Listen for the "empty" higher pitched sound, then shut off switch.
10. Hold the sample container beneath the grinding chamber and open the mill. Use a brush or spatula to transfer incompletely-ground residue from mill to the container with ground sample. Remove the screen and transfer residue from it into the sample container.
11. Clean the entire mill using air and/or a brush. A fine, pointed spatula works best to dislodge particles caught behind the knives. The mill may need washing with certain samples. Towel dry or blow dry to prevent rust formation.

Comments:

• The knives need periodic sharpening. Proper alignment of the knives on re-installation is critical to ensure efficient grinding.
• Dust will accumulate in the motor housing compartment and should to be cleaned out periodically.
• Condition of mill, maintenance and repairs should be monitored and regularly recorded in a designated log book.

1.2 Grinding with a Cyclone Mill (Udy, Cyclotec or equivalent) >>

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