Cole Parmer BM-600 User manual

1300-87071-1M, REV 4
BM-600 Planetary Mill
Rock and Mineral Grinder for Spectroscopy Applications
Operation Manual
For 115V (04900-16) and 230V (04900-17)

BM-600 Planetary Mill
1300-87071-1M, REV 4 Cole-Parmer® Page 2 of 32
Copyright 2023 by Cole-Parmer
All rights reserved. No part of the work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical; including photocopying and recording, except as may be
expressly permitted by the 1976 Copyright Act or in writing from the publisher. Requests for
permission should be addressed in writing to Cole-Parmer, 65 Liberty Street, Metuchen, NJ
08840.
SPEX SamplePrep is now part of Cole-Parmer®.
The Cole-Parmer® BM-600 Planetary Mill was formerly known as SPEX 8200 Planetary Mill.
Over the years, we’ve acquired many high-quality and reputable brands. After many years
of continual growth, we realize our brands are all as brilliant as each other. Rather than
have a portfolio of complementary brands, we felt consolidating them under one world-
class brand name enabled us to offer a single and significant brand experience. Through
one brand we can speak in one voice through our team of experts who provide support in
product selection, usage and troubleshooting to empower laboratories to run efficiently
throughout the world.
Same Great Quality!
One World-Class Brand Name!

BM-600 Planetary Mill
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION
DESCRIPTION
PAGE
1.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................................5
1.1 Disclaimer............................................................................................................................5
2.0 Specifications ......................................................................................................................6
3.0 Unpacking ...........................................................................................................................8
4.0 Setting Up............................................................................................................................9
4.1 Electrical Connection ..........................................................................................................9
4.2 Standard Safety Features....................................................................................................9
4.3 CE Safety Features ..............................................................................................................9
4.4 General Safety...................................................................................................................10
5.0 Touchscreen Display.........................................................................................................10
5.1 Logo Screen.......................................................................................................................10
5.2 Control Panel.....................................................................................................................11
5.3 Changing Settings..............................................................................................................13
5.4 Saved Protocols.................................................................................................................14
6.0 Loading the Grinding Jar...................................................................................................17
7.0 Locking the Grinding Jar in Clamp....................................................................................17
8.0 Balancing the Grinding Jar................................................................................................18
8.1 Adjusting the Counterweight ...........................................................................................18
9.0 Operation..........................................................................................................................20
9.1 Mixing and Grinding..........................................................................................................21
9.2 Operating the Door...........................................................................................................22
9.3 Running the Mill................................................................................................................22
9.4 Emptying and cleaning the Jar..........................................................................................24
10.0 System Settings.................................................................................................................26
10.1 Run History........................................................................................................................26
11.0 Maintenance.....................................................................................................................27
11.1 Technical Support .............................................................................................................27

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SECTION
DESCRIPTION
PAGE
12.0 Error Messages .................................................................................................................28
12.1 Door Error .........................................................................................................................28
12.2 Rate Error..........................................................................................................................28
12.3 Motor Home Error............................................................................................................29
12.4 Latch Error.........................................................................................................................29
13.0 Troubleshooting................................................................................................................30
14.0 Warranty...........................................................................................................................31
14.1 Product Specifications ......................................................................................................31
14.2 To Arrange a Return Shipment.........................................................................................31
15.0 Instrument Disposal..........................................................................................................32
16.0 Contact Us.........................................................................................................................33

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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The Cole-Parmer BM-600 Planetary Mill grinds samples with a mechanical motion rotating the
jar in one direction while the platform, planetary wheel or often referred to as the sun wheel is
rotated in the opposite direction. The mechanical milling is performed at 2:1 ratio causing the
container to rotate twice for every single rotation of the sun wheel. Generally, the containers
and grinding balls are made from the same material. As the container is moved, the relative
centrifugal force is transferred to the grinding balls causing them to move in a circular motion,
into each other and against the container wall, grinding the sample.
The BM-600 Planetary Mill is used for pulverizing rocks, minerals, sand, cement, slag, ceramics,
glass, and other brittle to hard samples.
Functionally described as a high-shearing or a high-energy ball mill, the BM-600 Planetary Mill is
capable of rapidly rotating a container in a circular motion several hundred times a minute.
This multi-purpose mill is capable of rapidly reducing hard and brittle samples to analytical
fineness, blending powders, or making emulsions.
The BM-600 Planetary Mill also features a touchscreen display, sleek modern design, forced-air
cooling, a safety interlock, and a choice of hardened steel or stainless steel, which are
purchased separately.
The jar, containing the sample and grinding media is secured in the clamp, and moved
energetically in a circular motion. The circular motion is combined with the rotating movement
of the sun wheel, so that the jar appears to be resembling a planetary movement as it moves.
During each rotation of the jar, the balls impact the sample, and the walls of the jar, both
milling and mixing the sample. Because of the amplitude and velocity of the clamp’s
movement, each ball develops high centrifugal forces, enough to pulverize the toughest rocks,
minerals, and ceramics.
1.1 Disclaimer
While many materials can be safely ground and/or mixed in the BM-600 Planetary Mill, some
materials pose hazards and are not appropriate for use with the Planetary Mill. Reactive
materials can generate heat and pressure and are not suitable for use in a closed vessel such
as the Planetary Mill jar.Cole-Parmer is available to offer guidance to our customers.
However, users are responsible for knowledge and understanding of the potential hazards of
the material with which they are working.
Grinding jars do not provide an airtight seal. Purging a jar with an inert gas prior to grinding will
not ensure exclusion of oxygen.

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2.0 SPECIFICATIONS
Type of mill: Planetary Ball Mill, High-Energy Ball Mill
Grinding Containers: Canister type jar with multiple balls
Weight: 250 lbs. (113 kg) (empty, without jar)
Dimensions: 24 in (61 cm) H x 27.5 in (70 cm) W x 19 in (48.3 cm) D
VPN
Description
VPN
Description
8211
Hardened Steel Grinding Jar, 250 mL
8227B-30
Stainless Steel Grinding Balls, 30 mm
8221
Hardened Steel Grinding Jar, 500 mL
8227B-40
Stainless Steel Grinding Balls, 40 mm
8217
Stainless Steel Grinding Jar, 250 mL
8221B-10
Hardened Steel Grinding Balls, 10 mm
8227
Stainless Steel Grinding Jar, 500 mL
8221B-20
Hardened Steel Grinding Balls, 20 mm
8227B-10
Stainless Steel Grinding Balls, 10 mm
8221B-30
Hardened Steel Grinding Balls, 30 mm
8227B-20
Stainless Steel Grinding Balls, 20 mm
8221B-40
Hardened Steel Grinding Balls, 40 mm
VPN
Description
VPN
Description
8240
Jar Sieve for 250 mL Jar
51784
O-Ring for 250 mL Jar
8245
Jar Sieve for 500 mL Jar
51785
O-Ring for 500 mL Jar
Table 1. Grinding Jars and Grinding Balls Available
Table 2. Jar Sieves and Jar O-Rings

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3.0 UNPACKING
At the factory, the Planetary Mill is adjusted and tested for proper operation, and carefully
packaged for shipping. Upon receipt, carefully inspect the exterior of the packing crate. If
there is any visible damage, notify Cole-Parmer and file a claim with the carrier immediately.
To unpack the Planetary Mill, loosen and remove the eight wing nuts on the lower edge of the
crate (two on each side) and lift the crate sleeve off the base (This is a 2-person job). Remove
loose items from the crate. Remove any protective plastic cover from the mill. Remove the
four hexagonal shipping feet from the bottom of the crate, unscrewing the hex head screw
(using a 9/16”wrench).
CAUTION: The Planetary Mill weighs about 250 pounds (113 Kg). Be sure to have a
mechanical hoist or lifting equipment on hand when moving the unit.
Follow a logical sequence of steps as you inspect the unit (Figure 1 and 2). For example:
1. Inspect the outside of the cabinet for any visible damage.
2. Inspect the electrical input module and On/Off switch for any visible damage.
3. Ensure that the door mechanism is working properly (Section 9.2).
4. Open the door and inspect the interior of the Planetary Mill.
5. Check that the clamp has not been damaged.
6. Inspect the accessory pack. Compare with the packing list.
If everything seems to be in proper order, store the crate and packaging materials in case there
is a need to return the unit for service or repair.
Figure 1 - Planetary Mill
(front view)
Door (closed)
Control Panel
Door Handle
Door Handle
On/Off switch
Figure 2- Planetary Mill
(back view)
Emergency
Stop
USB
Electrical Inlet

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4.0 SETTING UP
The BM-600 Planetary Mill weighs 250 pounds (113 Kg). The door rotates to open and close
from left to right with the handle atop the mill. The electrical input module/power cord
receptacle is located on the rear of the Planetary Mill cabinet towards the bottom, as shown in
Figure 2. The power (On/Off) button is on the rear next to the electrical inlet. The Manual door
Release Latch is located on the top of the unit at the top right. The touchscreen control panel is
affixed to the front side of the unit. Above the display of the control panel is an emergency
stop button (in red) and an USB port (black screw-off knob) to export run history, or upgrade
system software (Figure 1).
4.1 Electrical Connection
The On/Off switch (controlling power to the motor and timer), is located at the back of the unit.
To turn on the power, press down-left the bar (|) side of the switch. Before plugging in the mill,
set the power to Off by pressing down-right the circle (0) side of the On/Off switch, then plug
the power cord into the mill’s power inlet. Plug the mill into a standard 3-prong grounded
electrical outlet; The AC Input module and the ON/OFF switch (which also serves as a circuit
breaker) are on the back of the cabinet.
4.2 Standard Safety Features
Clamp Locking Tab: The clamp is opened and closed by a knob on the end of its
threaded shaft. Whenever the clamp is closed on a jar, lock the clamp by first
tightening the red knob and then tightening the locking tab clockwise against the
clamp Y-crossbar (the locking tab is on the shaft between the knob and the clamp
Y-crossbar). When opening the clamp, first loosen the locking tab.
4.3 CE Safety Features
CE directives require that electricity to the motor and timer be interrupted whenever the door
is open, and that the clamp must stop completely before the door can open.
Safety Interlock: The Safety Interlock cuts off power to the motor when the door is open. Do
not disconnect or damage this switch.
Time-Delay Rotary Latch: The Time-Delay Latch keeps the door closed while the mill is running,
and for 5 seconds after the end of the run. The Time-Delay Rotary Latch, on the right side panel
is powered by an internal motor to engage the latch actuator in the door. When the mill is
started the Time-Delay Latch locks the door immediately, and there is a delay before the motor
starts. When the timer reaches zero at the end of a run, the motor stops, the timer displays
RUN COMPLETE, and the latch stays locked for 5 seconds. At the end of 5 seconds the latch
unlocks, and the timer resets.
NOTE: Never try to force open the door before the Time-Delay Rotary Latch unlocks.
Locking Tab

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4.4 General Safety
5.0 TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY
The BM-600 Planetary Mill is programmed and operated through a series of touchscreen
displays. Transition between screens, and all programming and operating commands, are done
by touching the screen with a fingertip or stylus. Do not use a sharp point as this can damage
or deface the screen.
5.1 Logo Screen
When the power is switched ON at the front of the mill, “Please Wait” appears during start-
up as the software loads, then the Home screen will be displayed (Figure 3). From the Home
screen, the Control Panel, Run History and Settings can be accessed by touching the
buttons displayed.
Caution: Every effort has been made to ensure the BM-600 Planetary
Mill operates at a moderate noise level. The intensity of noise is
directly impacted by the type of grinding jar, number of balls, size of
balls and sample hardness. Ear protection is recommended.
Figure 3 - Home Screen

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5.2 Control Panel
The Control Panel displays the programmed run parameters, and the Date and Time at the
bottom right of the screen, as shown in Figure 4. Changes to the run settings, are made from
this screen.
To recall stored run protocols, touch the Store/Recall button located at the bottom right of the
screen. (See section 5.4 for more information on Saved Protocols)
To return to the Home Screen touch the Home Icon.
The following sequence of events will occur from the current settings in Figure 4.
Note: Reverse directional motion is Off. Turning On the reverse motion (and running for 2 or
more cycles) will reverse the planetary wheel (opposite direction), causing the jar to rotate in
the opposite direction. Reversing the motion can improve the efficiency of the grind, allowing
the balls to scrape the wall of the container to remove caked material.
1. Cycle 1 - the unit runs for 2 minutes at a rate of 600 rpm.
2. Rest Time - the unit is inactive for 30 seconds allowing the sample to dissipate the
frictional heat from the grinding balls.
3. Cycle 2 - the unit runs for another 2 minutes at a rate of 600 rpm.
Note: if Reverse was On (active), the planetary wheel would reverse every other cycle.
4. The run protocol is complete after Cycle 2.
Figure 4 - Control Panel

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5.2 Control Panel (Cont’d)
In the CONTROL PANEL, The STATUS BAR (top of screen) counts down the time remaining for a
run (Figure 5). To change the settings of a selected field, press the “(+)”or “(–)“buttons on the
CONTROL PANEL Screen. The (–) buttons decrease the number displayed and the (+) buttons
increase the number displayed.
5.2.1 Starting a Programmed Run
To run the program displayed on the CONTROL PANEL Screen, touch the run button. The
Planetary Mill can be stopped, paused, and restarted in the middle of a grinding program from
the button selections to the right of the screen. Warning! Do not operate the BM-600 Planetary
Mill without a jar.
During the RUN TIME stage the TIME counts down the time for the programmed run in 1-
second increments. To pause the program, touch the pause button. To continue the program,
touch the RESUME button (appears when paused). To abort the program, touch the STOP
button.
To start a new program, touch the RUN button.
Figure 5 –Run Screen

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5.2 Control Panel (Cont’d)
5.2.3 Stopping or Pausing a Run
To stop a program, touch the stop button on the RUN SCREEN (Figure 5), the button will dim or
turn a muted red and the program will end. If the RUN button is touched after the program has
stopped then the entire program will start over.
To pause during a grinding program, touch the PAUSE button. Note, the Pause button will
have a dimmed or muted yellow appearance for a few seconds after the Run button is
touched which indicates it is inactive. After 5 seconds it will turn a brighter yellow indicating
it is active. The run will hold the settings at that moment (elapsed time, cycle, etc.). At this
point the door to the sample area can be opened. To resume the program, “close door”and
touch the RESUME button. This will restart the program at the point at which it was paused.
Alternatively, pressing STOP will end the program.
5.3 Changing Settings
To change parameters (run time, rest time, cycles, and rate), touch (+) the plus or minus (-)
buttons on the CONTROL PANEL Screen. Touching the plus increases the parameter, while
touching the minus decreases the parameter. Tap or hold the plus or minus buttons until the
desired number is reached. The changes will appear in the area between the arrows, as shown
in Figure 4. The maximum run time is 99 hours for 1 cycle. If running 2 –10 cycles the
maximum run time per cycle is 10 hours. The minimum Rest is 15 seconds per cycle for 2 –10
cycles. To run a program with the new settings, touch the run button.
NOTE: If the run parameters are changed to a Protocol and not saved then (MOD) will appear
to the right of the Protocol name at the top center of the screen.

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5.4 Saved Protocols
The SAVED PROTOCOLS Screen is shown in Figure 7. Up to 20 Protocols can be saved for simple
and fast recall, increasing productivity, and reducing operator error.
A saved program retains the settings for number of cycles, run time, pause time between
cycles, and rate. Be sure to adjust the rate to the desired setting after recalling a stored
program.
The Default protocol recalls the last programed run setting that was not saved. The Default
protocol can be changed without saving the new settings, as described in section 5.4. At the
top left on the Saved Protocols Screen is the Back Arrow button. Touching the Back Arrow
button returns the user to the previous screen.
5.4.1 Recalling a Protocol
To recall a stored program, touch the Store/Recall button on the Control Panel Screen (Figure
4). In the SAVED PROTOCOLS Screen, select the protocol to highlight the box. Then touch
SELECT to send protocol to the CONTROL PANEL Screen.
5.4.2 Storing a New Protocol
To store program, touch the Store/Recall button on the Control Panel Screen (Figure 4). In the
SAVED PROTOCOLS Screen, touch the add button, as shown in Figure 7.
Figure 7 –Saved Protocols Screen

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5.4 Saved Protocols (Cont’d)
This will bring up the KEYBOARD screen, a simplified version of the standard keyboard for a
computer.
The CLEAR key deletes whatever has been entered in the Label Box.
Touching the DONE key enters the label shown in the box.
Touch the SAVE button to save the label shown in the Box. The label will appear as the name of
the program in the SAVED PROTOCOLS Screen (Figure 7).
The CANCEL key does not change anything on the screen, but returns the display to the SAVED
PROTOCOLS Screen.
To run the newly saved protocol, touch the protocol to highlight the box. Then touch SELECT to
send the protocol to the CONTROL PANEL Screen. Review the parameters and touch the RUN
button to initiate the protocol.
Figure 8 –Keyboard Screen

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5.4.3 Edit a Protocol
To edit a saved protocol, touch the protocol name to highlight the box on the Saved Protocol
screen (Figure 7). Then touch the EDIT button. From the Edit Protocol Screen change the name
by touching inside the box. This will bring up the Keyboard screen, follow the instructions listed
in the Storing a Protocol SECTION 5.4.2. The Run Time, Rate, Rest Time, and Cycles can also be
adjusted in the Edit Protocol screen.
5.4.4 Delete a Protocol
To delete a saved protocol, touch the protocol name to highlight the name on the Saved
Protocols Screen (Figure 7). Then touch the Delete button. A pop-up window opens confirming
to delete this protocol. Touch YES to clear or touch NO to keep the saved protocol.
Figure 9 –Edit Protocol Screen
Touch inside the
Label Box to
change name
Figure 10 –Delete Confirmation Screen

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5.4.5 Modify a Recalled Protocol
Once a saved protocol is recalled to the CONTROL PANEL Screen, the User can modify the
parameters by using the left and right arrows. If the protocol is modified, (MOD) will appear
next to the protocol name, e.g. Shale Rock(MOD).
6.0 LOADING THE GRINDING JAR
Before using a planetary mill grinding container, check to make sure that it is clean and that the
O-ring is in good condition. The sample should be crushed to proper feed size before it is
loaded into the container, approx. ¼” to ½”for the steel containers.
Place the sample in the grinding container FIRST, then the grinding balls and apply the cover
(firmly seated). Do not overload the grinding container. Recommended sample amounts for
500 mL jar (100 g to 225 g) and for 250 mL jar (50 g to 100 g). Additional information on
grinding and mixing is in Section 9.1.
7.0 LOCKING THE GRINDING JAR IN THE CLAMP
The clamp locking knob is the most critical component of the Planetary Mill, as it must be
carefully adjusted to hold the jar firmly in place. The rotation motion of the clamp is extremely
vigorous. The jar must be held securely in the clamp during operation to prevent damage and
leakage.
The clamp base has two different size pins, designed to specifically fit in the two holes on the
bottom of the jar. To place a jar in the clamp, loosen the locking tab on the threaded shaft, and
unscrew the locking knob with a few turns (counterclockwise). Rotate the moveable arm
clockwise (downwards) unclasping it from the Y-cross bar, lift the locking knob assembly
upwards, as shown in Figure 11. When placing the jar in the clamp make sure the pins fit in the
proper holes. Once the jar is seated in the clamp base it should not be able to twist.
To lock the jar in the clamp, rotate the moveable arm counterclockwise (upwards) and push
down the locking knob to fit (clasp) the Y-cross bar inside the arm opening (Figure 12). Turn the
locking knob clockwise to secure the jar. Tighten the locking tab by turning clockwise.
Lock Clamp Assembly
before running unit
It is essential that samples are securely locked into the
clamp assembly before operation.

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7.0 LOCKING THE GRINDING JAR IN THE CLAMP (Cont’d)
8.0 BALANCING THE JAR
8.1 Adjusting the counterweight
Figure 13 –Counterweight
Figure 12 –Locking the Clamp
Locking Tab
Figure 11 –Opening the Clamp
Figure 14 –Counterweight (top view)
IMPORTANT:
250 mL Jar (only)
Remove two top
counterweight disks
before adjusting the
counterweight

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8.1 Adjusting the counterweight (Cont’d)
The counterweight is set at the manufacturing facility to balance the Stainless Steel 500 mL Jar
with eight 30 mm stainless steel balls. Turning the knob, in Figure 13, clockwise increases the
counterweight. Furthermore, turning the knob counterclockwise decreases the counterweight.
Note: If the counterweight is not properly balanced the unit may vibrate or shake vigorously. If
this occurs turn the unit Off by pressing the Stop button on the touchscreen or hitting the Red
Emergency Stop button. (Red button above the display). Note: The mill will not run if the
emergency stop button is pushed in. To disengage the emergency stop button turn it
clockwise until the button pops out.
Description
Jar Weight with Lid
Ball Weight per Ball
Stainless Steel Grinding Jar, 500 mL
9.9 lb
–
Stainless Steel Grinding Jar, 250 mL
7.2 lb
–
Stainless Steel Grinding Balls 40 mm
–
0.575 lb
Stainless Steel Grinding Ball, 30 mm
–
0.242 lb
Stainless Steel Grinding Ball, 20 mm
–
0.070 lb
Stainless Steel Grinding Ball, 10 mm
–
0.0089 lb
Jar
Sample
40 mm Balls
30 mm Balls
20 mm Balls
10 mm Balls
500ml
100 –225 g
4
8
20
100
250ml
50 –100 g
–
4
10
50
Table 3. Weight of jars and stainless steel balls.
Table 4. Suggested number of balls per grinding jar based on sample weight.
IMPORTANT:
250 mL Jar (only)
Remove two top
counterweight disks
before adjusting the
counterweight
Approximate balance setting:
500 mL Jar = 1 13/16”
•(4) 40mm Balls w/100 g (sample) = 1 1/8”
•(8) 30mm Balls w/100 g (sample) = ”
•(20) 20mm Balls w/100 g (sample) = 1 ¼”
•(100) 10mm Balls w/100 g (sample) = ”
250 mL Jar = ”
•(4) 30mm Balls w/50 g (sample) = ”
•(10) 20mm Balls w/50 g (sample) = ”
•(50) 10mm Balls w/50 g (sample) = ”
✓Turn adjustment knob clockwise to
increase the counterweight.
✓Turn adjustment knob counterclockwise
to decrease the counterweight.
Start from edge of cross bar
Measurement to edge of sun wheel

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8.1 Adjusting the counterweight (Cont’d)
After the sample jar is loaded and secured into the clamp mechanism, counterweight properly
adjusted, close the door. Grasp the handle and rotate clockwise to slide the door to the closed
position.
9.0 OPERATION
Before operating the Planetary Mill, make sure it is plugged in and turned on. The power cord
inlet is located on the rear of the cabinet. The white On/Off button is located on the rear of the
cabinet. (Figure 2)
The following steps outline a standard operating cycle:
1. Load sample and balls in grinding jar
2. Firm place lid on the grinding jar
3. Clamp the jar in place
4. Close the door
5. Set the timer
6. Set the number of cycles
7. Reverse option to On or Off
8. Set the pause time
9. Set the run speed
10. Press the green RUN button to start a run
11. When the run is complete, slide-open the door
12. Unclamp the jar
Figure 15 –Closing the door

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9.1 Mixing and Grinding
For samples that cake during mixing, a slurry with water or alcohol may be helpful. Water may
be removed afterwards by drying the sample in the jar in a very low temperature oven. If
caking is due to static charge, a small amount of cellulose (10%) can be added to the jar.
Dry grinding is the simplest approach and is most often used.
If a sample is not being ground fine enough, one can decrease the amount of sample, increase
grinding time, use a denser grinding medium, and/or add a grinding aid or a liquid. Wet
grinding keeps the sample from caking and will give a smaller final particle size, but there are
hindrances: an extra drying step is required, the fluid used for wet grinding must be chosen
carefully not to alter the sample or attack the container, all have gaskets and are watertight.
None of these jars is inherently gas tight. Limited results can be achieved by loading and
unloading the jar in a glove box under inert gas.
CAUTION: Always use grinding balls that match the material of the container, e.g. steel balls for
a steel container, stainless steel for stainless steel. This will limit contamination. An
inappropriate choice of balls, such as tungsten carbide balls in a zirconia container,
can damage the container.
9.1.1 Grinding Hints
For any grinding container, the smaller the initial sample size, the finer it can be ground in a
given time. Unless a sample cakes during grinding, the longer it is ground, the finer it will get.
Particle size can almost always be lowered further by reducing the sample size or lengthening
the grinding time, or both.
Dry grinding is relatively efficient for most brittle materials, but at small particle sizes (below 50
microns) there is a tendency for particles to agglomerate, or "cake." There are many
grinding aids to prevent caking. Water, alcohol, solvents, and other liquids can be added to
create slurries whose median particle size after grinding can be well below 10 microns, but for
most analytical techniques the liquid must be removed before analysis.