SPEX SamplePrep ENCLOSED SHATTERBOX 8530 User manual

15 Liberty St., Metuchen, NJ 08840
732-623-0465
www.spexsampleprep.com
8530 ENCLOSED SHATTERBOX®
OPERATING MANUAL
For 8530-115 and 8530-230 Shatterbox with Serial Numbers 07000 and higher;
this manual is Part No. 87017

8530 Shatterbox
Page 2 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION
DESCRIPTION
PAGE
1.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................................3
2.0 Specifications ......................................................................................................................4
3.0 Unpacking ...........................................................................................................................5
4.0 Setting Up............................................................................................................................7
4.1 Locking Casters ...................................................................................................................7
4.2 Pneumatic Cylinders ...........................................................................................................7
4.3 Safety Interlock................................................................................................................... 7
4.4 Cam-Action Clamp ..............................................................................................................8
4.5 Controls...............................................................................................................................9
5.0 Operation..........................................................................................................................12
5.1 Grinding Containers..........................................................................................................13
6.0 Maintenance.....................................................................................................................17
6.1 Shatterbox Part Numbers.................................................................................................17
6.2 Cleaning the Shatterbox ...................................................................................................17
6.3 Replacing Drive Belts ........................................................................................................17
6.4 Clamp Mechanism Maintenance and Replacement........................................................18
6.5 Tightening or Replacing the Yokes ...................................................................................18
6.6 Replacing the Rubber Columns ........................................................................................19
7.0 Accessories: Grinding/Mixing Vials ..................................................................................20
8.0 Parts List & Item Locator ..................................................................................................22
9.0 Assembly Diagrams & Parts..............................................................................................23
10.0 Troubleshooting Guide.....................................................................................................26
11.0 Warranty...........................................................................................................................27
11.1 Product Specifications ......................................................................................................27
11.2 To Arrange a Return Shipment.........................................................................................27
12.0 Contact Us.........................................................................................................................28

8530 Shatterbox
Page 3 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Since its introduction three decades ago, the SPEX SamplePrep Shatterbox has become the
most popular “swing mill” in America. Now as then, it remains the most efficient way to
pulverize up to 100 ml in volume (or 100 g in weight) of brittle material to analytical fineness.
The 8530 has many advanced features, including an electronic timer, a cam-action clamp, a
safety-interlocking lid with pneumatic cylinders, and lockable casters.
The Shatterbox swings a dish-shaped grinding container, with a puck and (often) a ring inside, in
a tight high-speed circle; the sample is quickly crushed between the wall and floor of the
container and the moving puck/ring grinding elements. Smaller grinding containers and those
made with ceramics have a puck-shaped grinding element; larger containers add a ring. Most
grinding containers are fitted with a gasket to prevent sample loss during grinding.
Since grinding containers are chosen for specific tasks, there is no “standard” Shatterbox
grinding container. In general, grinding times average two-to-five minutes, with resultant
particle size well below 200 mesh, and in some cases 10 microns. Typical samples include
cements, soils, ceramics, slag, rocks, and ores, but the Shatterbox has also ground sulfur pellets,
dried marsh-grass, pharmaceuticals, and many other materials. To maximize grinding capability
and minimize contamination, grinding containers are available in hardened steel, tungsten
carbide, alumina ceramic, and zirconia ceramic. The full range of Shatterbox grinding containers
is described in detail in the SPEX Handbook of Sample Preparation and Handling.
The Shatterbox’s advanced design features:
1. A cam action clamp lever assembly that engages the end of the clamp bar, and holds
it down firmly as the lever is pushed into place. The clamp must be carefully adjusted
for each grinding container and should never be overtightened. (See instructions before
use. Overtightening the clamp voids the warranty.)
2. A programmable digital timer with Start, Stop, and Pause functions and visual display.
Indicates minutes and seconds up to 10:00, the program time limit. Timer is
programmed in 10-second intervals, counts down in 5-second intervals. Pause function
freezes a run, retains time left to run.
3. Safety features including a safety lid interlock and gas cylinders for the lid, as well as
a sound-insulated steel cabinet and lockable casters with which the mill can be fixed in
place. Lid stays locked and timer displays RUN COMPLETE for 5 seconds after motor
stops.
8530-115 Enclosed Shatterbox with Digital Timer & Safety Interlock
For 115 V/60 Hz operation. Includes cam-activated clamp and electronic timer with digital
display, sound attenuating cabinet with lockable casters, and a lid with safety interlock. The unit
accepts all Shatterbox grinding containers (not included with mill).
8530-230 Enclosed Shatterbox with Digital Timer & Safety Interlock
For 230 V/50 Hz operation. Same as 8530-115 but with 230 V/50 Hz circuitry and continental
European CEE 7/7 two prong plug. CE-approved.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 4 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
2.0 SPECIFICATIONS
Type of mill: grinding mill
Grinding mechanism: grinding containers
Weight (without grinding container): 225 lbs. (102 Kg)
Dimensions: 19 in (48 cm) x 19 in (48 cm) x 40 in. (102 cm)
Grinding Vials Available (see page 20 for more information):
8501 Hardened Steel Grinding Container
8504 Tungsten Carbide Grinding Container
8505 Alumina Ceramic Grinding Container
8506 Zirconia Grinding Container
8507 Small Hardened Steel Grinding Container
8508 Small Tungsten Carbide Grinding Container
8521 Large Hardened Steel Grinding Container
NOTE: In practice, the sample capacity of any particular grinding container depends on the
properties of the sample, particle-size requirements, and other considerations.
Electrical: available in 115 60Hz (10-amp fuse) or 230V 50Hz (5-amp fuse).
Cord: 115V 60Hz version, 3-prong grounded cord supplied.
230V 50Hz version, with European CEE 7/7 two-prong plug supplied.
NOTE: Operator is responsible for supplying alternate line cord/plug if required.
Fuses:115V 60Hz version, 10-amp slow-blow fuse in inlet module,
230V 50Hz version, 5-amp slow-blow fuse in inlet module
Important: these fuses are "slow-blow" fuses, meant to withstand a temporary voltage
peak in excess of the fuse's current rating. (Electric motors of the type used in the
Shatterbox draw more amperage than normal while getting up to speed.) When
replacing a fuse, remember to unplug the Shatterbox first, and always use a "slow-blow"
type fuse.
Motor: a 1/3 horsepower dual-winding 825-RPM motor powers the 8530 Shatterbox.
The low horsepower rating of the motor is based on its low fixed speed, but the motor
has high torque (especially when starting up) and is more powerful than its HP power
rating implies.
Safety Features: Lid Interlock prevents mill from running if lid is not closed and keeps lid locked
down for 5 seconds after motor shuts off to allow mechanism to come to a stop.
Recommended operating conditions: indoors, in ambient air, temperature between 40oand
90oF. (4o–35oC), humidity between 0% and 95%.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 5 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
3.0 UNPACKING
The 8530 Shatterbox mechanism and its cabinet are shipped assembled, and carefully packed
to avoid damage during shipping. Any visible damage to the shipping container should
immediately be reported to the carrier. If there is no visible damage, remove all packing
documents from the exterior of the box, and after completion of your inspection, file in your
records.
Before unpacking the 8530 Shatterbox, place the shipping carton upright and as close as
possible to the mills intended location. Open the top of the shipping box. Remove the top and
body of the carton. Note that if the tape holding the carton’s bottom piece together is slit on
one side, that flap can be folded down and the Shatterbox rolled off after unlocking the casters.
A plug-in line cord, an extra set of 51793 drive belts, an extra set of fuses, and a 31688 Friction
Disc are included with your new Shatterbox. One Friction Disc (a circle of thin rubber matting)
should always be kept in the recess off the capsule container, to cushion the grinding container,
reduce the noise of the grinding, and prevent unnecessary and rapid wear of the clamp and
capsule retainer.
Move the mill to the location where it is likely to stay, lock the casters, and open the lid. Please
note that the Shatterbox should always be installed and operated on a level surface. Check the
power switch, which is on the back of the cabinet, next to the electrical inlet (Diagram C, Item
48); this switch should be in the off position (the 0 should be pushed in) when the power cord is
first attached. Look for any hidden damage that may have occurred during shipping.
The 8530 Shatterbox comes fully assembled. However, before plugging the Shatterbox in and
using the controls for the very first time, first inspect the drive mechanism to make sure it is
properly linked and aligned. The Shatterbox was tested before shipment, but there are four
flexible belts connecting two drive arms, one on the motor and one on the capsule retainer.
The belts can become dislodged during shipping. If the Shatterbox is run with the drive
mechanism uncoupled or misaligned, damage can result.
To inspect the drive mechanism, remove the access panel on the back of the case. (Note that in
general this panel should not be removed without unplugging the power cord.) Check the belt
linkage between the arm on the motor and the arm on the rotating funnel on the bottom of the
capsule assembly. The two arms should be parallel and unbent, connected by four belts (O-
rings) in a diamond pattern that overlaps at the corners (Diagram B, item 34). (The coupling arm
is attached to the top of the motor shaft. The eccentric arm is attached to the bottom of the
rotating funnel.) Spin the arms by hand; the motor arm and the funnel arm should rotate
together smoothly.
If the drive belts have come off, replace them as pictured in Diagram B: in a diamond pattern,
two belts up and two belts down. Spin the arms by hand.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 6 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
3.0 UNPACKING (Cont’d)
If either arm has become bent, straighten it; the arms are made of a soft alloy which can be
bent without harming it. Spin the coupling arm by hand; the eccentric arm and the funnel
should rotate together freely. The hubs of the coupling arm and the eccentric arm should be
between 1/16” and 1/8” apart; if they are not, the coupling arm may have ridden up or down
the motor shaft. Correct this by loosening the setscrews holding the coupling arm, and
adjusting its position on the motor shaft. When the drive belts are aligned and the hubs of the
two arms properly separated, tighten the setscrews (use a 1/8” Allen wrench).
As re-installing the access panel, note the electrical inlet, on/off switch, and the fuse holder on
the left side of the access panel opening. The 115V 60Hz Shatterbox takes two 10-amp “slow
blow” fuses; the 230V 50Hz unit takes two 5-amp “Slow Blow” fuses.
Plug the cabinet power cord into an approved electrical outlet: in North America, a 3 prong
grounded 115V outlet on a circuit fused at 20 amps. The 230V/50Hz Shatterbox is equipped
with a standard European 2 prong plug that in some countries may have to be replaced to suit
local electrical codes. The 230V power cord conforms to European wiring color codes.
If everything seems to be okay, proceed to the next section “SETTING UP.”
Lid Assembly
Control Panel
Electrical Inlet
Module at Rear
8530 Shatterbox
Casters

8530 Shatterbox
Page 7 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
4.0 SETTING UP
After the initial unpacking and setup of the Shatterbox, you are ready to prepare the unit for
actual use.
As you make the Shatterbox ready to grind samples, become familiar with the grinding
Container you will use. The sample is placed in a container with a puck (and sometimes a ring);
then the container is swung in a tight circle while the puck (and ring) crush the sample against
the bottom and wall of the container. Most of the Shatterbox containers have an O-ring or
gasket that prevents leakage during grinding. Grinding containers are available in several sizes
and in a range of materials to minimize objectionable contamination: hardened steel (Cat. Nos.
8501, 8507, and 8521), tungsten carbide (Cat. Nos. 8504, 8508), alumina ceramic (Cat. No.
8505), and zirconia ceramic (Cat. No. 8506). See page 18 for more information
Before actually operating your new 8530 Shatterbox, it is important that you become familiar
with its special features. This section explains in detail how each part of the Shatterbox works.
Directions for operation (minus these detailed descriptions) are given in “Operations.” There
are four important conditions of operation, which bear repeating:
1. ALWAYS CLAMP A CONTAINER IN PLACE WHEN RUNNING THE SHATTERBOX.
2. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN THE CLAMP.
3. DO NOT OPEN THE LID UNTIL THE LID LATCH IS DISENGAGED.
4. ALWAYS UNPLUG THE MILL BEFORE OPENING THE CABINET ACCESS PANEL.
While familiarizing yourself with the operation of the Shatterbox you may wish to clamp in
place a grinding container without its puck/ring. Read the clamp instructions first.
4.1 Locking Casters
All four casters swivel, and can be locked and unlocked with the foot. Each caster has a
downward sloping pedal with a small tab projecting up. To lock the casters, press the pedal
down. To unlock the casters, push the tab back. To move the 8530 Shatterbox easily, unlock the
casters; to keep it in place, lock them. Always lock the casters before operating the Shatterbox.
4.2 Pneumatic Cylinders
There is one on either side of the lid, to hold it firmly in the open or closed positions. Open and
close the lid several times to get the “feel” of lowering the lid gently. Keep fingers and objects
off the rim of the Shatterbox cabinet when lowering the lid, as the pneumatic cylinders will not
slow its descent during the last few inches.
4.3 Safety Interlock
The 8530 Shatterbox is designed so the lid cannot be lifted while the capsule retainer is moving.
When the start button is pushed, it activates a solenoid that locks down the lid. Not until the
lid locks down will the Shatterbox motor start. At the end of a run when the timer reaches

8530 Shatterbox
Page 8 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
4.3 Safety Interlock (Cont’d)
zero, the motor shuts off, the timer displays RUN COMPLETE, and the lid stays latched for 5
seconds to allow the grinding mechanism to slow down. After 5 seconds the lid unlatches with
an audible click, and the timer re-sets. Always wait until the lid is unlatched before opening it.
If the safety interlock cannot engage, the mill will not start, and ERROR: LATCH FAILURE
appears in the timer display. When the problem has been corrected and the Interlock can
engage, the ERROR display will continue until the stop button is pushed. Only when the time
setting (example: 3:00 REMAINING) reappears in the display can the Shatterbox be started.
The only exposed part of the Safety Interlock is a U-shaped metal latch which protrudes from
the inside lip of the lid and can be seen when the lid is lifted. Please do not damage this latch by
trying to open the lid before the latch disengages. If this part of the interlock is damaged and
cannot latch properly, the Shatterbox will not start.
4.4 Cam-Action Clamp
The cam-action of the clamp makes it possible to hold any SPEX Shatterbox grinding container
firmly in place without applying excessive pressure to the lever. The clamp can also be adjusted
easily for containers of different heights, or to compensate for wear. It is absolutely necessary
to adjust the clamp properly before using it, as overtightening the clamp can damage it. Such
damage is not covered by the warranty. The different parts of the clamp are illustrated in
Diagram A.
To use the clamp, first swing the clamp arm to the left side of the cabinet and the clamp lever
to the right. Then place a grinding container squarely in the recess of the capsule retainer. (If
the container is not firmly seated, it can work itself loose during grinding.) The use of a 31688
Friction Disc in the capsule retainer recess, under the grinding container, is recommended at all
times; it lessens noise, aids the gripping action of the clamp, and prevents rapid wear of the
capsule retainer.
When the grinding container is in place, swing the clamp arm to the right, so the guide fits over
the boss (raised protuberance) in the center of the container lid. Then bring up the clamp lever
so that the open gate at its base fits over the end clamp arm; the roller in the clamp lever
assembly should rest in the curved recess of the clamp arm. Swing the clamp lever over to the
left. If the lever meets strong resistance, STOP! The clamp is not properly adjusted and must
be loosened. Overtightening the clamp can break the cam mechanism.
The best way to adjust the clamp is to screw the guide back into the clamp bar until contact
with the grinding container is loose. Then extend (unscrew) the guide until the clamp becomes
snug. Ideal tightness for the clamp is just past the point where the grinding container can be
rotated with the clamp lever down. When the clamp is perfectly adjusted, the lever will meet
moderate resistance as it is pushed through the top of its arc, then close easily.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 9 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
4.4 Cam-Action Clamp (Cont’d)
If the guide is set too loose, the lever will meet little or no resistance, and the grinding
container can be rotated in place; disengage the lever and tighten the guide. If the guide is set
too tight, the lever will meet strong resistance as it approaches the vertical. We repeat, never
force the lever, but disengage it and loosen the guide.
The guide may be tightened or loosened by screwing it away from, or toward the clamp arm.
First disengage the locking pin by pushing its flange toward the spring. Then screw the guide
away from the clamp arm to tighten it, or toward the clamp to loosen it. Test the fit by closing
the clamp. When the clamp is adjusted, make sure the locking pin is engaged.
4.5 Controls
4.5.1 Main Power Switch (Diagram C, Item 48)
This is the rocker switch on the back of the cabinet, next to the electrical inlet. It controls the
flow of current to the controls and motor. When you press this switch to the on position (I) the
timer display will light up. The timer can now be programmed. Pressing this switch to the off
position (0) will switch off power to the mill.
4.5.2 Digital Timer
The timer includes a minutes:seconds numerical display, push-buttons for the start, stop and
pause functions, and buttons to change the timer setting. The display indicates the
programmed grinding time when the mill is not running: 3:00 REMAINING means the
Shatterbox is programmed for a 3-minute run. During a run the timer counts down the time
remaining in 5-second increments: 2:05, 2:00, 1:55, etc. The time is displayed in minutes and
seconds; for example, 1:30 equals one minute and thirty seconds.
Time is programmed up or down, in 5-second increments, by pressing the up/down buttons
below the timer display.
The timer display also includes three status screens:
PAUSED is displayed when the pause button has been pressed;
RUN COMPLETE is displayed for 5 seconds after the run is over;, and
ERROR: LATCH FAILURE is displayed when the lid interlock cannot engage.
NOTE: Before setting the timer and operating the 8530 Shatterbox, clamp a grinding
container firmly in place. Also, while learning how to operate the Shatterbox you may
want to use a grinding container with its puck/ring grinding elements removed.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 10 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
4.5 Controls (Cont’d)
8530 Shatterbox Digital Timer Screen and Controls
4.5.3 Setting the Timer
When power is switched on, the timer will first display the SPEX logo, followed quickly by:
SPEX SAMPLEPREP
8530 SHATTERBOX
The timer will then display the default timer setting of three minutes (3:00). Assuming a
grinding container is clamped into the capsule retainer and the lid is down, pressing START will
initiate a run of 3 minutes. First there will be a delay of several seconds for the lid latch to
engage, then the timer will start counting down in 5-second increments: 2:55, 2:50, 2:45, etc.
Every time power is turned off and back on, the timer will revert to the 3:00 default setting. To
keep another timer setting, leave the power on. If power is not interrupted, the timer will
display the most recently programmed setting.
Set the grinding time with the four buttons below the timer display. There are up and down
buttons for minutes, and up and down buttons for seconds. The MIN buttons will change the
minute setting 1 minute at a time, and the SEC buttons will change the seconds setting 10
seconds at a time. 10:00 is the maximum running time; increasing the minutes setting past 10
will take the setting to zero. 50 is the maximum setting for seconds; increasing the seconds
past 50 will take the setting to zero. If a button is pushed and immediately released, it will
change its setting by one unit.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 11 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
4.5.4 Starting and Running the Shatterbox
Push the start button to begin a grinding cycle. There will be a short pause while the lid
interlock engages, and then the Shatterbox motor will start. The timer counts down 5 seconds
at a time, showing the time left in the run. When the timer reaches zero and the motor shuts
off, the timer will display RUN COMPLETE for 5 seconds while the lid latch stays locked. This
allows the capsule retainer mechanism to slow down. When the interlock releases the lid (with
an audible click), the timer display will return to its prior setting. Never try to open the lid
before the interlock releases; this can damage the lid latch.
4.5.5 Using the Stop and Pause Buttons
To stop the mill during a run, push the stop button. This will shut off the motor and re-set the
timer. RUN COMPLETE will be displayed for 5 seconds and the lid will stay latched. After 5
seconds the original timer setting will re-appear and the lid latch will release.
To have the mill pause during a run and retain the timer setting, push the pause button. The
motor will shut off and PAUSED will appear in the display. The lid latch will not release. To
resume the run, push START; the timer will briefly display the exact number of seconds left in
the run and then count down in 5-second increments. To abort the run, push STOP; RUN
COMPLETE will be displayed for five seconds and the lid latch will release.
4.5.6 Timer/Lid Latch Interlock
The timer is connected to the safety interlock, a latch in the lid that hooks under the front edge
of the cabinet when the START button is pressed, and locks the lid down. If the Shatterbox lid
cannot be locked down when START is pressed, the motor will not start and ERROR: LATCH
FAILURE will appear in the timer display. When this happens, correct any problems with the
interlock latch, then press STOP to clear ERROR: LATCH FAILURE from the display, and restore
the timer setting. Only when the timer setting is restored can the Shatterbox be started again.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 12 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
5.0 OPERATION
The following sequence is typical. It supposes familiarity with the chief features of the
Shatterbox, as described in “SETTING UP.” First, these cautions:
Never operate the Shatterbox without a grinding container and friction disc clamped firmly in
place. (If it is necessary to run the Shatterbox without grinding a sample, remove the grinding
element(s) from the container.) Never remove the access panel in the back of the cabinet
unless the mill is first unplugged.
1. Switch the power on. The timer display will light up. Initially it will flash the SPEX
SamplePrep logo and then display SPEX SAMPLEPREP/8530 SHATTERBOX, but this will
shortly change to the default timer setting of 3:00.
2. Program the timer, using the buttons immediately below the numerical display. The left-
hand pair of buttons controls the minutes, and the right-hand pair of buttons controls the
seconds.
3. Load the grinding container with sample. If running the Shatterbox without grinding
anything, remove the grinding element(s) from the container. Clamp the container into the
capsule retainer. Make sure that the friction disc is properly placed and the grinding
container is firmly seated. If the clamp is properly adjusted, the clamp lever should work
smoothly with some resistance at the top of its arc, but you should not be able to rotate the
container in place once the clamp lever is down. If the clamp is too tight or too loose,
adjust it.
4. Shut the lid, and press the start button. There will be a brief pause while the lid locks down,
and then the Shatterbox motor will start. As it runs, the timer display will count down the
minutes and seconds remaining, in 5-second increments. When the timer reaches zero,
RUN COMPLETE will appear in the timer display for five seconds while the lid remains
latched; this gives the grinding mechanism time to slow down. Then the timer setting will
re-appear and the lid will unlatch, with an audible click. Always wait for the lid to unlatch
before opening it.
Open the lid, unclamp the grinding container, and remove it for emptying and cleaning.
If ERROR: LATCH FAILURE is displayed instead of numerals when the start button is pressed, the
interlock has not properly engaged. Clear the timer by pressing the stop button, and correct
the problem.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 13 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
5.1 Grinding Containers
There are at present ten different Shatterbox grinding containers in five different materials and
four sizes; while each of the ten has a puck-shaped grinding element or a puck and ring, each
has different requirements for sample size and/or grinding time. Consequently the following
instructions are general in nature.
5.1.1 Choice of Grinding-Container Material
Every grinding-container material has its benefits and drawbacks. Some will contaminate a
sample fairly heavily, others lightly; some will grind a sample more rapidly than others, while
some are more prone to breakage; and there are cost considerations. Detailed advice on
choosing the proper grinding container can be found in the Handbook of Sample Preparation
and Handling.
Often the prime consideration in choosing the container material is whether it will contaminate
the sample with elements of interest in the analysis. Thus steel mills looking for iron in slag will
choose tungsten carbide over steel, while a geochemist doing trace-element determinations in
igneous rocks might avoid both zirconia ceramic for its major Zr and Hf, and tungsten carbide
for the small amounts of Ti, Ta, and Nb present.
Performance is also important: the denser the grinding-container material, the more rapid the
grinding. Tungsten carbide is the densest, followed by steel, zirconia ceramic, and alumina
ceramic. Of these, steel is the most prone to wear if the samples are hard; however, it is the
only material of the four warranted against breakage. The following summary of properties
may be helpful:
Steel: is extraordinarily durable and relatively inexpensive, but subject to unusual wear when
used to grind hard materials (quartz and feldspar, glasses and slag). Grinds rapidly but tends to
contaminate. Major element: Fe. Minor elements: Cr, C, Mn, and Si.
Tungsten Carbide: grinds very rapidly and wears well, but is subject to occasional breakage. It
is harder than most samples other than the hardest refractories, but contaminates moderately.
Major elements: W, C, Co. Minor elements: Ta, Ti, and Nb.
Zirconia Ceramic: is harder than steel and most slag and mineral samples, but is neither as
heavy nor as hard as tungsten carbide. Grinds fairly rapidly with low contamination levels, and
almost never breaks. Major elements: Zr. Minor elements: Hf, Mg.
Alumina Ceramic: is harder than tungsten carbide, but is comparatively lightweight. It grinds
fairly slowly with low contamination levels and is subject to fracture. Major elements: Al.
Minor elements: Si, Mg, and Ca.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 14 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
5.1.2 Choice of Grinding-Container Size
There are four sizes of Shatterbox grinding container: small, medium, large, and extra large. To
pick the correct size it is necessary to know the minimum amount of sample you have to grind,
its approximate density, and the fineness of grind desired, as each may affect your final choice.
The typical sample capacities of each container type are given below in grams, assuming a
sample of the density of quartz sand, rock, etc. (approx. 2 to 3-1/2) and the requirement to
pulverize the sample to around 325 mesh (44 microns). The sample capacity volume RANGE,
which is much broader, is given in ml. If you are unsure which Shatterbox grinding container to
select, consult our product specialists. You can also send your samples in for evaluation and
test grinding.
Small: 8507 Small Hardened Steel and 8508 Small Tungsten Carbide grinding
containers. Each has a puck-shaped grinding element. Typical sample capacity
8-12 grams, sample volume range 5 - 15 ml. Requires 8507R Rack to operate one
8507/8508 or three simultaneously.
Medium: 8505 Alumina Ceramic and 8506 Zirconia Ceramic grinding containers. Each has
a puck-shaped grinding element. Typical sample capacity 20-30 grams, sample
volume range 15 - 40 ml.
Large: 8501Hardened Steel and 8504 Tungsten Carbide grinding containers. Each has a
puck and ring. Typical sample capacity 40-60 grams, sample volume range 20 -
70 ml.
Extra Large: 8521 Large Hardened Steel grinding container, with puck and ring. Typical
sample capacity 60-100 grams, sample volume range 30 - 120 ml.
The sample volume ranges given above are estimates, not absolute limits. The upward limit on
the weight/volume of a given sample for a given grinding container is really determined by the
point where the mill stops grinding the sample satisfactorily. This limit can vary with the type
of the sample and its particle size. The lower limit on the size of the sample is usually reached
when the sample becomes highly contaminated and is hard to recover. (If very little sample is
ground there is a lot of direct contact between the grinding element or elements and the
container, and under these conditions the tungsten carbide and ceramic grinding containers are
more likely to become chipped.) Avoid grinding large chunks of sample, as these can either jam
the grinding container or damage it; even if they grind satisfactorily they will probably not grind
consistently. We recommend reducing the feed size to at least 1/4" for the tungsten carbide
and steel grinding containers, and to 1/8" for the alumina and zirconia ceramic grinding
containers.
When developing a procedure for your combination of Shatterbox and grinding container, try a
sample size near the middle of the given range(s). Grind for two minutes in steel or tungsten
carbide, or four minutes in alumina or zirconia. If grinding is not satisfactory but the sample is
not caking, try increasing the grinding time or decreasing the sample size, or both. If caking
occurs, consult the Handbook of Sample Preparation and Handling for information about
grinding aids.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 15 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
5.1.3 Loading a Shatterbox Grinding Container
Before using a Shatterbox grinding container, check to make sure that it is clean and that the
gasket or O-ring is in good condition. Before it is loaded into the container, the sample should
be crushed to proper feed size as discussed previously: approx. 1/4" for the steel and tungsten
carbide containers, and 1/8" for the alumina and zirconia ceramic containers.
Place the sample in the grinding container AFTER the ring or ring-and-puck is in place. Do not
overload the grinding container (see “Choice of Grinding-Container Size” above for
recommended loads). If loading a steel or tungsten carbide grinding container with a ring as
well as a puck, place the sample more or less evenly on both sides of the ring.
Before putting the cover on the grinding container, check the position of the O-ring, and make
sure no sample is on the rim of the container, or underneath or on top of the ring and puck. A
good way to tell whether the cover is firmly seated is to rotate it slightly, or slide it from side to
side; if sample particles are preventing the cover from closing tightly, this will be apparent.
If the cover of the grinding container is not firmly seated when the container is clamped into
place, it is likely that the clamp will loosen during grinding. At best the grinding container will
leak. At worst, the container can leave the clamp, causing damage to both the mill and
container.
5.1.4 Emptying and Cleaning the Grinding Container
The grinding container is usually emptied by brushing out the ground sample. Typically a
technician will start by brushing sample off the underside of the cover into the container, and
brushing off the tops of the puck and ring. Then the ring is lifted partway out of the container
and brushed off, followed by the puck. Finally the container is tilted and the entire sample
brushed out. Some technicians recommend coarse-bristled brushes (for example, inexpensive
Nylon paintbrushes) because they are easy to clean.
WARNING: Finely pulverized sample always presents a respiratory hazard; a dust mask or
other protection should be worn when working with it.
Grinding containers should be cleaned after use. Methods have included wiping with a damp
paper towel, blowing out with an air hose, rinsing with water or alcohol, etc. Most of these
methods are not very effective, and blowing the dust out of a container with an air hose
certainly causes a respiratory hazard. We recommend a two-minute period of grinding with a
mixture of clean quartz sand, hot water, and soap or laboratory detergent. The residue is easily
and safely washed out of the container, which then may be dried.
Technicians who are particularly concerned about cross-sample contamination may adopt the
"grind and discard" technique. After sample A has been ground and the grinding container
nominally cleaned, a portion of sample B is ground and discarded, and the container cleaned
again. Now it should be possible to grind a portion of sample B without contaminating it with
sample A.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 16 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
5.1.4 Emptying and Cleaning the Grinding Container (Cont’d)
A cleaned grinding container, which will not be used for some time, should be stored in a plastic
bag. Hardened steel grinding containers should always be dried and stored carefully, as they
are prone to surface rusting.
5.1.5 Grinding Hints
It is risky to give exact formulas for sample grinding because there are so many variables. Few
types of sample have the same grinding characteristics. Grinding containers are made of
different materials, all of which grind differently; furthermore, a worn grinding container will be
less efficient than a new one. While there are many analytical techniques that require finely
ground samples, the necessary particle size for proper analytical results may vary from
instrument to instrument and from sample to sample. Consequently these guidelines are
general.
For any grinding container, the smaller the overall 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 stick back together, or "cake." There are many
grinding aids to prevent caking. Water, alcohol, solvents, and other liquids can be added to
create slurries whose mean particle size after grinding can be well below 10 microns, but for
most analytical techniques the liquid must be removed before analysis. Dry grinding aids
include soap powders, detergents, stearates, and aspirin, all added to comprise 1% to 10% of
the total sample weight. SPEX recommends a technique pioneered by Howard Kanare of
Construction Technology Laboratory: ethylene glycol or propylene glycol is added to the
sample in the amount of one drop for every five to ten grams of sample.
In most analytical work it is important to reproduce particle size from sample to sample. Like
other laboratory mills, the Shatterbox requires a fixed routine to accomplish this: a uniform
sample weight, grinding aid, grinding time, container, etc. You are welcome to telephone SPEX
SamplePrep LLC at 1-800 522-7739 or 732-549-7144 to discuss your particular application.
.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 17 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
6.0 MAINTENANCE
6.1 Shatterbox Part Numbers
Following these written instructions are a parts list and diagrams (pages 22-24) of the
Shatterbox mechanism and cabinet. Note that all SPEX parts have 5-digit inventory numbers
that must be used to order them. However, most of these parts also have 1-digit or 2-digit
numbers that correspond to the part's position in an engineering drawing. Example: the
screws, which hold the columns in place, are part no. 26 in Diagram A, but must be ordered as
SPEX Part No. 50619.
6.2 Cleaning the Shatterbox
Depending on how dusty the working environment is it may be necessary to clean the
Shatterbox regularly. The clamp and capsule retainer should be vacuumed or wiped off. Any
spilled powders or liquids should be wiped up immediately with a slightly damp cotton cloth after
every use. This should minimize the buildup of any powders, mold/mildew, or unsightly gunk over
the life of the unit. To clean the Shatterbox mechanism, remove the access panel on the back of
the cabinet (after unplugging the mill) and vacuum the exposed surfaces.
For a properly functioning Cam-Action Clamp, it is absolutely necessary that the lever assembly
roller rotates smoothly (Diagram A, Item 13). Clean off any excess dust or dirt from the outer
segments of the clamp, with special attention being placed on the hinge sections and on the roller.
It may be necessary to oil the hinge and the roller from time to time. If the roller locks up, the
clamp can be easily damaged.
NOTE: It is important to unplug the unit from its power source before beginning any cleanup
or maintenance work that is to be performed on the mill.
6.3 Replacing Drive Belts
Special compound O-rings are used as drive belts (Diagram B, Item 34). When a drive belt fails,
all four drive belts should be replaced by SPEX part no. 51793. (Neoprene O-rings will not
work.) Before installing new drive belts, check the clearance between the hubs of the coupling
arm and eccentric arm (Diagram B, Items 28 and 35, respectively); the gap should be between
1/16 inch and 1/8 inch (1.5 mm to 3 mm). If it is more or less than that, loosen the lock screws
on the collar of the coupling arm with a 1/8-inch Allen wrench, adjust the clearance by moving
the coupling arm up or down on the motor shaft, then tighten the lock screws.
Visually inspect the coupling arm and eccentric arm to make sure they are parallel, and not
bent; if they are damaged, they should be replaced.
Install the new drive belts in a diamond pattern, two up and two down as in Diagram B. Spin
the funnel (Diagram A, item 23) by hand to make sure the two arms spin together freely, and
the drive belts are parallel.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 18 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
6.4 Clamp Mechanism Maintenance and Replacement
All Shatterboxes have clamp levers that are anchored to the capsule retainer by yokes. In
current Shatterbox models (8500, 8515, 8530), the yokes are attached with Allen bolts inserted
from the top, so they can be tightened easily if the yokes become loose. Instructions are given
here for tightening and replacing yoke bolts, and for replacing clamp arms and levers.
If one of these bolts breaks and cannot be removed from the capsule retainer, or you are
repairing an earlier model Shatterbox with the yoke bolts inserted from beneath, call our
Service Department for advice and parts availability. Contact information is in Section 12.0.
The Shatterbox clamp mechanism is anchored to the capsule retainer by yokes: the long yoke
(Diagram A, Item 19) holds the clamp arm (Diagram A, Item 14), and the short yoke (Diagram A,
Item 12) holds the clamp lever assembly (Diagram A, Item 13). Each yoke is attached to the
capsule retainer by two Allen bolts (Diagram A, Item 10). If a yoke loosens, the bolts must be
tightened. To do this, remove the C-clip (Diagram A, Item 18) from one end of the pin (Diagram
A, Item 17) that holds the clamp arm or lever, and push the pin out from that end. Use a 5/32-
inch Allen wrench to tighten the loose bolts; you may wish to remove the bolts, clean them,
and apply a locking agent before tightening them.
Clamp arms and clamp levers are replaced in a similar way, by pushing the pin out of the yoke,
removing the old arm or lever, replacing it, re-inserting the pin, and holding the pin in place
with a C-clip.
6.5 Tightening or Replacing the Yokes
All but a few of the early Shatterboxes have a long yoke (Diagram A, item 19) and swing short
yoke (Diagram A, item 12) that are fastened to the capsule retainers by Allen bolts inserted
from above. If these bolts loosen, they can be tightened with an Allen wrench after removing
the pin holding the clamp arm or lever. To do this, remove one of the C-clips (Diagram A, item
18) holding the pin (Diagram A, item 17) in place, and push the pin out from that end. In the
unlikely event that the bolts shear and cannot be removed from above, or if you have one of
those early Shatterboxes with the bolts inserted from below, it will be necessary to remove the
funnel to gain access to the underside of the capsule retainer. After detaching the upper
section of the mechanism (Diagram A, item 18 from item 22), invert it and remove the eccentric
arm (Diagram B, item 35) by first taking out the small setscrew from the large slotted setscrew
(Diagram B, item 27) and removing it. Then pull the funnel straight off the shaft. When
installing either yoke, first clean the yoke and its mounting bolts to remove all traces of oil, and
treat each bolt with a locking agent to prevent loosening after assembly. When replacing the
funnel and eccentric arm make sure that the long side of the eccentric arm and the funnel
counterweight (Diagram A, item 9) are on the same side of the funnel, otherwise the gyrating
motion of the Shatterbox will be unbalanced.

8530 Shatterbox
Page 19 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
6.6 Replacing the Rubber Columns
To replace the rubber columns (Diagram A, item 7) first remove the older columns by removing
the retaining screws (Diagram A, item 26) that hold them, and pulling the old columns from
their sockets. Then place the new columns in those sockets and check and adjust the clearance
between the eccentric and coupling arms as mentioned above. Once the correct clearance is
established, drill holes through the new columns to allow insertion of the retaining pins.
6.6 Changing the Fuses
If the Shatterbox will not operate when the start button is pressed, it is possible that one or
both of the fuses may have blown. To access the fuses, first remove the power cord from the
back of the Shatterbox. Then open the door on the fuse compartment by gently prying it open
at the top and flipping it down. Use a small screwdriver to gently pry the red fuse holder out of
the compartment, as shown in Figure 3. Remove the fuses and check them using a continuity
tester. If either fuse is blown or defective, replace both with 3AG 10-amp, 230V slow-blow
fuses for the 115V model, or 3AG 5-amp, 230V slow-blow fuses for the 230V model. Position
the fuse holder such that the appropriate operating voltage appears on top. Return the fuse
holder to the fuse compartment and close the access door. Check the window of the fuse
compartment to make sure that it shows the appropriate voltage. If not, the fuse holder is
upside down and must be turned around before attempting to operate the Shatterbox.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have any questions about the operation and maintenance of your
8530 Shatterbox, please contact our specialists by phone at 1-800 LAB-SPEX
(522-7739) or 732-549-7144, or by e-mail at s[email protected].

8530 Shatterbox
Page 20 of 28 SPEX SamplePrep LLC January 2010
7.0 ACCESSORIES: GRINDING/MIXING VIALS
(If not included in your Order, they are Available for Purchase at Additional Cost)
8501 Hardened Steel Grinding Container
Outer Dimensions (dia. x height): 17.5 x 7.5cm,
Weight: 8kg Recommended Load: 20-50ml
Complete with: Dish, Lid, Ring, Puck, & Gasket
8504 Tungsten Carbide Grinding Container
Outer Dimensions (dia. x height): 17.5 x 8cm
Weight: 12.5kg Recommended Load: 20-60ml
Complete with: Dish, Lid, Ring, Puck, & Gasket
8505 Alumina Ceramic Grinding Container
Outer Dimensions (dia. x height): 15.2 x 8cm
Weight: 5kg Recommended Load: 15-40ml
Complete with: Dish, Lid, Puck, & Gasket
8506 Zirconia Grinding Container
Outer Dimensions (dia. x height): 15.2 x 8cm
Weight: 6kg Recommended Load: 15-40ml
Complete with: Dish, Lid, Puck, & Gasket
8521 Large Hardened Steel Grinding Container
Outer Dimensions (dia. x height): 20.3 x 8.2cm
Weight: 13kg Recommended Load: 30-100ml
Complete with: Dish, Lid, Ring, Puck, & Gasket