Bettersize Instruments
PowderPro X1
Powder Characterisation System
- 18 critical powder parameters
- ISO and ASTM Standards
- Automated imaging teachnology
- Key Features
- Technology
- Testing Units and Platform
- Applications
- Specification
- Software
- Standards & Method
Key Features
The Next Generation of Powder Characterisation
- 18-in-1 Automated Testing
- SOP Based Workflow
- 360° Image Analysis
- 20 + Standards Compliance
- 21CFR Part 11 Support
PowderPro X1 is a next-generation powder characterisation system independently developed by Bettersize. Combining 18 critical powder parameters with automated testing on an integrated platform, it enables comprehensive evaluation of key powder properties, including angle of repose, bulk and tapped density, dispersibility, and flow rate. Based on the Carr Index Method and aligned with more than 20 international and industry standards, including the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, USP, Ph. Eur., ISO, and ASTM standards, PowderPro X1 supports applications ranging from R&D and quality control to method validation and regulatory compliance.
Through intuitive outputs such as angle-of-repose images, flow rate curves, sieve size reports, and flowability and floodability indices, PowderPro X1 transforms complex powder behavior into clear, quantifiable, and comparable results, supporting process optimization, product development, quality improvement, and scientific research
Features
- 18-in-1 automated powder characterization platform
- Integrated design for comprehensive powder flowability evaluation
- SOP-based workflows aligned with 20+ international standards
- Patented 360° angle-of-repose imaging technology
- Integrated environmental monitoring and dust control
- Combined dispersibility and flow rate testing on a common base
Benefits
- Unlock comprehensive insight into powder flow and
handling behavior - Adapt testing capabilities to changing application needs
- Strengthen quality assurance through standardized, traceable workflows
- Improve angle measurement reliability for complex powder pile geometries
- Reduce cleanup time and improve laboratory efficiency
- Predict process performance from laboratory-scale measurements with greater confidence
Technology
Redefining Angle Measurement
360° Multi-Angle Imaging and Analysis System
In practical testing, powder piles often exhibit asymmetrical shapes and surface irregularities. Measurements taken from a single viewing angle may overlook local slopes and other critical features, leading to incomplete characterisation and reduced measurement reliability.
PowderPro X1 features a patented 360° multi-angle imaging and analysis system that captures powder pile morphology from different perspectives. By systematically analyzing the pile across the full azimuthal range, the system minimizes the bias associated with single-view measurements and delivers a more representative assessment of irregular or complex powder pile structures.
Validation with a 45° standard angle block yielded an average measured angle of repose of 44.67°, corresponding to a relative error of less than 1% from the reference value and demonstrating excellent measurement accuracy.
For challenging materials such as ultrafine calcium carbonate, 360° multi-angle analysis effectively captures pile asymmetry and generates a more representative angle-of-repose result for a realistic evaluation of powder flow behaviour.
Funnel Following Module
The funnel following module automatically maintains the distance between the funnel outlet and the top of the powder pile within the 2–4 cm range recommended by the USP and Ph. Eur. throughout testing. This reduces particle scattering, pile collapse, and variability caused by manual adjustment.
By promoting the formation of a stable and symmetrical powder pile, the module improves the accuracy, repeatability, and pharmacopoeial compliance of angle of repose measurements.
Angle of Sliding Friction Module
The angle of sliding friction module measures the critical angle at which a powder bed begins to slide on an inclined plane. During testing, the platform gradually tilts while an integrated camera continuously monitors powder movement and automatically records the angle of sliding friction.
A larger angle of sliding friction indicates stronger friction between the powder and the contact surface, and therefore a lower tendency to slide.
This parameter quantitatively assesses powder handling behavior and its interaction with equipment surfaces.
Testing Units and Platform
Intelligent Flow Behavior Testing
The PP-F1 Flow Rate Test Unit and PP-D1 Dispersibility Test Unit share a common base platform and can be quickly interchanged according to testing requirements. This integrated design enables both flowability and dispersibility evaluation within a single system, reducing the instrument footprint while improving testing efficiency. Its compact configuration simplifies installation, cleaning, and maintenance, supporting a streamlined process across multiple test applications.
Applications
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Specification
ParametersQuantity
| Compliance | ISO | ISO 3310, ISO 3923, ISO 3953, ISO 4490, ISO 8460 |
| USP | USP <616>, USP <786>, USP <1174>, USP <1176> | |
| Ph. Eur. | Ph. Eur. 2.9.34, Ph. Eur. 2.9.36 | |
| ASTM | ASTM B212, ASTM B213, ASTM B329, ASTM B417, ASTM B527, ASTM C1770, ASTM D4164, ASTM D6393, ASTM D7481, ASTM D8176 | |
| Weight / Dimensions | Main Unit | 42 kg / 352 × 517 × 558 mm |
| Dispersibility Test Unit | 7.5 kg / 244 × 332 × 701 mm | |
| Flow Rate Test Unit | 6.5 kg / 244 × 321 × 332 mm | |
| Angle Tests | Test Method | Depth camera |
| Measurement Range | 0° – 90° | |
| Depth Camera | Rotation Angle Range | 0° – 180° |
| Imaging Orientation Coverage | 0° – 360° | |
| Tapped Density | Frequency | 1 – 300 taps/min |
| Drop Height Range | 1 – 20 mm | |
| Settable Number of Taps | Max. 9999 | |
| Vibration Sieve | Amplitude Range | 0.1 – 3 mm |
| Control | PC | Windows 10 system |
| Repeatability | ≤ 3% | |
| Temperature (Monitor) | Range | -40 – 125 °C (±0.5 °C) |
| Humidity (Monitor) | Range | 0% – 100% (±3% RH) |
| Software | Functions | SOP, 21 CFR Part 11 |
| Connection | USB 3.0 | |
| Power Supply | 90 – 250 V, 50/60 Hz |
Software
Compliant & Traceable Workflow
Audit Trail Function
The software supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements through features such as user access control, electronic signatures, and operation logs. These capabilities help maintain data integrity and support compliance in regulated laboratory environments.
Standard Method Library
A built-in library of pharmacopoeial, ISO, ASTM, and other standardized methods enables rapid test setup and execution. Method parameters can also be customized to meet specific application requirements.
Standards & Method
PowderPro X1 Compliance
International Standards & Test Method Coverage
PowderPro X1 supports powder characterization methods referenced by 23 ASTM, ISO, USP, and European Pharmacopoeia standards. Review each standard’s application and the corresponding test items supported by the instrument.
Coverage at a Glance
23 referenced standards across ASTM, ISO, USP, and Ph. Eur., covering Carr Indices, pharmaceutical powder-flow characterization, apparent and tapped density, funnel flow rate, and sieve-based particle-size evaluation.
Coverage Area 01 · 1 Standard
Comprehensive Powder Characterization
Carr Indices and multi-parameter powder characterization.
| Standard | Application | Supported Test Items |
|---|---|---|
| ASTM D6393 | Bulk-solids characterization by Carr Indices for free-flowing and moderately cohesive powders/granular materials | Angle of Repose Angle of Fall Angle of Difference Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Compressibility Cohesion Uniformity Angle of Spatula Dispersibility |
Coverage Area 02 · 6 Standards
Pharmaceutical Compendial Standards
Powder flow, bulk and tapped density, compressibility, and analytical sieving methods referenced by USP and the European Pharmacopoeia.
| Standard | Application | Supported Test Items |
|---|---|---|
| USP <1174> | Pharmaceutical powder-flow characterization | Angle of Repose Compressibility Index Hausner Ratio Flow Rate |
| USP <616> | Pharmaceutical untapped/tapped bulk density and derived powder-compressibility metrics | Bulk Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Bulk Density (Scott Volumeter Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Compressibility Index Hausner Ratio |
| USP <786> | Pharmaceutical particle-size distribution estimation by analytical sieving | Sieve Size |
| Ph. Eur. 2.9.36 | Pharmaceutical powder-flow characterization | Angle of Repose Compressibility Index Hausner Ratio Flow Rate |
| Ph. Eur. 2.9.34 | Pharmaceutical untapped/tapped bulk density and derived powder-compressibility metrics | Bulk Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Bulk Density (Scott Volumeter Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Compressibility Index Hausner Ratio |
| Ph. Eur. 2.9.38 | Pharmaceutical particle-size distribution estimation by analytical sieving | Sieve Size |
Coverage Area 03 · 12 Standards
Apparent, Bulk, and Tapped Density Standards
Density methods for metallic powders, catalysts, activated carbon, powders, granular materials, and instant coffee.
| Standard | Application | Supported Test Items |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 3923-1 | Metallic powders — apparent density by funnel method | Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) |
| ISO 3923-2 | Metallic powders — apparent density by Scott volumeter | Bulk Density (Scott Volumeter Method) |
| ASTM B212 | Apparent density of free-flowing metal powders using the Hall flowmeter funnel | Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) |
| ASTM B417 | Apparent density of non-free-flowing metal powders using the Carney funnel | Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) |
| ASTM B329 | Apparent density of metal powders and compounds using the Scott volumeter | Bulk Density (Scott Volumeter Method) |
| ASTM B527 | Tap density of metal powders and compounds | Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
| ASTM D4164 | Mechanically tapped packing density of formed catalysts and catalyst carriers | Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
| ASTM D8176 | Mechanically tapped density of powdered and fine-mesh activated carbon | Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
| ASTM C1770 | Loose and tapped bulk densities of small quantities of plutonium oxide | Bulk Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
| ASTM D7481 | Loose and tapped bulk densities of free-flowing and moderately cohesive powders using a graduated cylinder | Bulk Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
| ISO 3953 | Metallic powders — tap density | Tapped Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
| ISO 8460 | Instant coffee — free-flow and compacted bulk densities | Bulk Density (Fixed Volumetric Method) Tapped / Compacted Density (Fixed Gravimetric Method) |
Coverage Area 04 · 3 Standards
Powder Flow Rate Standards
Hall and Carney funnel methods for metallic powder flow-rate testing.
| Standard | Application | Supported Test Items |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 4490 | Metallic powders — flow rate using a calibrated Hall flowmeter funnel | Flow Rate (Hall Funnel) |
| ASTM B213 | Flow rate of metal powders using the Hall flowmeter funnel | Flow Rate (Hall Funnel) |
| ASTM B964 | Flow rate of metal powders using the Carney funnel | Flow Rate (Carney Funnel) |
Coverage Area 05 · 1 Standard
Test Sieve Requirements
Technical requirements for metal-wire-cloth test sieves used in sieve-based particle-size evaluation.
| Standard | Application | Supported Test Items |
|---|---|---|
| ISO 3310-1 | Technical requirements and testing for metal-wire-cloth test sieves | Sieve Size |
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Send a sampleOutstanding service
I have been using Meritics for a number of years and they always provide outstanding service and support.
They have a rapid response turnarounds and are very knowledgeable of the techniques and products they provide.
LeanneB-375
Good service, very helpful
We use Meritics for the PM service and installation of all our FlowCams . Megan has been coming to our site for a number of years. She is very efficient in her work, but most of all Megan is very helpful. We have had issues with one of instruments after the install and Megan did her utmost to try and solve it while on site, even though it wasn’t solved Megan has been in contact with the supplier of the instrument to try and solve this problem for us.
SophieH-2201
Job done in a friendly manner
Booking engineer visits is always easy. David Lowe, Meritics engineer is always very friendly.
ThierryN
Service/calibration visit
Excellent service, arrived on time, polite, friendly and informative.
NathamM-270
5 Stars
Excellent service from an excellent company. Would recommend them to anyone.
BarryH-480
Good Service
David, our service engineer as usual was good at communicating and setting up the recent service appointment, he arrived on time, did the service promptly and informed me of any problems. Friendly and helpful
TomA-446
Superb and prompt service
I have used this company through the laboratory I work for frequently. We specialise in soil analysis, and Meritics were chosen as they have extensive knowledge of the instruments we use. We have several laser particle diffraction analysers with a service contract, and service is always very prompt and meticulous….
JamesG-2483
Good experience over two years
Meritics have covered the annual servicing of our Multisizer 4e instrument since we purchased it from them just over two years ago. The application scientist who performed the servicing was friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful, happily answering a barrage of questions about how best to use and maintain the instrument. All my interactions with Meritics staff have been positive. I would happily recommend them.
RajG-62
Fully committed to customer service
Service second to none, both units serviced and all questions answers by engineer while on site.
RichardA-786
Highly recommend Meritics for equipment purchases and aftercare services
After owning one of our instruments for over 8 Years which was purchased from Meritics, it suffered its first breakdown. Upon contacting Meritics, I was instantly put through to an engineer who was very helpful. Upon inspection of the manual, it was decided that it would be more cost effective to have a Meritics engineer visit. The Meritics staff were very communicative and kept me up to date.
Excellent Service
Lovely, friendly and extremely helpful. David and his team are always on call with advise and are very easy to work with and are always happy to help.
NaomiT-64
Service of lab equipment
Excellent service. Friendly and professional service was provided in a timely manner to the expected standard.
NathanM-270
Excellent
Excellent communication. Updates given well in advance. Very polite staff and engineers.
NathanM-270
Multisizer 4e install at pharmaceutical company
2 people helped with the install of a Multisizer 4e. They were both very professional and friendly, answering any questions that I had. The installation was quick and the attention to good documentation practice was exceptional.
Chloel-9
Service of Beckman Coulter instruments
Always a pleasure to welcome the Meritics service engineer, who is knowledgeable, personable and extremely competent.
NeilT-394
Professional
Friendly and collaborative staff, provided a very good service.
SamK-403
Professional, Customer-oriented, fast service
We had issues with one of the aperture tubes provided by Meritics on a Friday afternoon, while very pressed for a review deadline. Meritics handled our inquiries very fast and professionally and helped us out by shipping us their spare tube to use in the mean time free of charge, while we waited for our new tube to arrive. Communication was very pleasant.
VeerleB
Very helpful and prompt
I emailed for some technical help and also to get some spares and both the engineer (David) and purchasing (Sophie) were very prompt to respond and helpful. We do have a service contract but I appreciated being able to email the engineer directly.
AlexH-474
Excellent Service
Used Meritics to conduct particle size distribution by laser diffraction. Service as last time, is very quick, well priced and professional.
I would highly recommend
GavinR-101
Excellent and Friendly Service
Always a pleasure to deal with the people at Meritics Ltd. They understand the importance of our work and the fact that our research projects have deadlines that need to be met. Consequently, problems are dealt with very quickly and professionally and they are willing to go that one step further to make sure their supply chain problems don’t become our problems. Thank you to the team for their support. It is greatly appreciated.
JanetH-255