Vario Sample Divider
The Vario sample divider is equipment for the rapid division and reduction of grain samples during laboratory quality control. The series is designed to handle large composite samples and allows one or several subsamples of the required volume to be obtained.
When grain is sampled, a composite sample typically weighs 5–8 kg, while modern analyzers require approximately 300–1000 g of material for analysis. Vario allows the original sample to be quickly reduced to the required quantity for further testing.
How the Vario Sample Divider Works
The divider is switched on before the sample is loaded. Grain enters the loading hopper, after which a rotating distribution tube passes through eight adjustable openings inside the unit.
Through the internal channel system, portions of the sample are successively directed into the collection containers. Excess material passes through the central section and can either be collected in a separate container or discharged through a pneumatic conveying system.
The yellow scale on the front panel indicates the selected division ratio. The division ratio can be adjusted continuously, allowing the amount of material in the subsample to be selected according to the specific analytical task.
Vario Models
The Pfeuffer range includes three versions of the sample divider:
Vario 1G — produces one subsample.
The model can also be equipped with an electric actuator and PC software. In this configuration, the subsample size or a fixed division ratio can be specified.
Vario 2H — produces two subsamples simultaneously.
Vario 4/8 — divides the original sample into four or eight subsamples.
Technical Specifications
| Model | Number of subsamples | Power supply | Dimensions, mm | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vario 1G | 1 | 230 V, 50 Hz / 60 W | 492 × 465 × 800 | 65 kg |
| Vario 2H | 2 | 230 V, 50 Hz / 60 W | 492 × 485 × 840 | 60 kg |
| Vario 4/8 | 4 or 8 | 230 V, 50 Hz / 60 W | 492 × 550 × 840 | 72 kg |
Options and Accessories
Various loading hoppers and collection containers are available for the Vario, including:
- standard hopper with a diameter of 48 mm;
- enlarged hopper with a capacity of up to 8 kg;
- Ø30 mm hopper with a capacity of up to 9 kg/min;
- various hopper inserts;
- stainless-steel components for adjusting the division ratio;
- collection containers with capacities of 2 and 3.5 l;
- container for continuous material flow;
- additional components for Vario 2H;
- agitator for difficult-to-flow materials
Vario in Grain Quality Control Laboratories
The sample divider is installed at the sample preparation stage before analysis. It allows laboratories to quickly reduce a large composite sample to the quantity required for analytical equipment. Models Vario 2H and Vario 4/8 can also produce several subsamples simultaneously.
This is particularly relevant for grain receiving facilities and laboratories where a significant number of samples must be processed during the working day.
3S Company supplies Pfeuffer equipment for grain sampling, sample preparation and analysis and can select the appropriate Vario configuration according to the laboratory’s requirements.