Understanding Particle Size and Distribution With Laser Diffraction and Air Jet Sieving
June 17, 2026
​When material performance depends on particle size, measurement matters just as much as processing. Laser Diffraction and air jet sieving are widely used because they help manufacturers understand not only average particle size, but also particle size distribution across a sample. For companies evaluating powder quality, process consistency, or specification compliance, these methods provide a practical starting point for better decision-making.
Why Particle Size and Distribution Matter in Laser Diffraction Analysis
Particle size can influence far more than a specification sheet in powder processing, it can also affect flow, blending behavior, packing, surface area, dissolution, and overall product performance. Distribution matters as well because two materials may share a similar average size while behaving very differently in production.
That difference becomes important when a powder must meet a narrow target range or perform consistently from batch to batch. A broader distribution may create variation in handling or downstream processing, while a tighter distribution can support more predictable results.
For many manufacturers, the goal is not only to determine whether a material is fine or coarse— it is also to understand how particle sizes are distributed throughout the sample and whether that distribution supports the next step in production.
How Laser Diffraction Measures Particle Size Distribution
Laser Diffraction remains widely used for particle size analysis because it provides a fast, detailed view of particle size distribution. At HCPS, the team uses Beckman Coulter LS13-320 and LS 230 analyzers to measure particles from 0.017 µm to 2000 µm.
The method passes light through a dispersed sample and measures the scattering pattern the particles create. Larger particles then scatter light at different angles than smaller ones, which lets the system calculate particle size distribution across the sample.
This makes laser diffraction especially useful when manufacturers need more than a single size point. Depending on the application, it can help evaluate:
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broad versus narrow particle size distribution
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consistency between batches
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whether processed material meets target size ranges
Because the method captures a wide range of particle sizes quickly, it often supports quality control, process development, and production needs. It can also complement broader particle size analysis when manufacturers need more complete material characterization.
Where Air Jet Sieving Adds Value Alongside Laser Diffraction
While laser diffraction provides detailed distribution data, Air Jet Sieving adds value when dry powders need evaluation through sieve-based separation. HCPS uses this method to analyze dry powders across a broad size range, helping manufacturers better understand size limits and separation results.
This method is especially useful for understanding top size, oversize fractions, or whether a powder stays below a specified cut point. In practical terms, that can matter when a product must meet screening, classification, or customer specification requirements.
Air jet sieving is often a good fit for:
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dry powders that need top-size confirmation
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materials evaluated against mesh-based specifications
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applications where coarse fractions must be identified clearly
Because it uses air flow to keep particles moving across the sieve surface, the method can be especially effective for fine dry powders that may not separate as efficiently with conventional sieving alone. That makes it a useful tool when evaluating material before or after screening and classification services.
How Laser Diffraction and Air Jet Sieving Work Together
Laser Diffraction and Air Jet Sieving are not competing methods. In many cases, they are actually complementary tools that help manufacturers build a clearer picture of material behavior.
Laser diffraction is valuable when detailed size distribution data is needed across a wide range. Air jet sieving is useful when the focus is on sieve-based cut points, top size, or dry powder separation. Used together, they can help confirm whether material meets both distribution targets and practical screening requirements.
This combination can be especially helpful in custom powder processing environments, where materials may vary by formulation, source, or processing history. A powder may require one method for broad analytical insight and another for confirming a specific limit tied to production or customer requirements.
What Particle Size Results Can Help Manufacturers Improve
Better particle size data supports more than documentation, it also records and analyzes processing, quality control, and downstream performance.
When particle size and distribution are understood more clearly, teams may be better positioned to:
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identify variation before it affects production
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confirm whether material meets target specifications
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support more consistent blending, screening, or packaging
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evaluate whether additional milling or classification is needed
This is one reason HCPS positions particle size analysis as an important part of quality control and process support. Its broader processing services page also describes laser diffraction and air jet sieving as part of its particle analysis capabilities.
Why Outsourcing Laser Diffraction and Particle Analysis Can Make Sense
For many manufacturers, advanced particle size analysis is important, but not always practical to maintain in-house. Specialized equipment, trained staff, method selection, and ongoing testing needs can add cost and complexity.
Working with an experienced processing partner can provide access to Laser Diffraction, air jet sieving, and broader contract processing services without requiring that full investment internally. HCPS presents these services as part of its custom powder processing support for chemicals, minerals, polymers, and plastics.
That approach can be especially useful for companies that need reliable particle data for development work, customer specifications, troubleshooting, or ongoing production support.
A Practical Approach to Understanding Particle Size Distribution
Choosing the right method for the question at hand is key for understanding particle size and distribution. Laser Diffraction helps manufacturers analyze distribution across a sample with speed and detail, while Air Jet Sieving adds practical insight into dry powder separation and cut-point control.
For companies evaluating powder performance, the most effective approach is often to match the method to the material, the specification, and the production goal. Hosokawa Custom Processing Services supports manufacturers with dependable testing, process insight, and specialized powder expertise. Learn more about its Laser Diffraction, Air Jet Sieving, and broader particle size analysis capabilities.