We are pleased to announce that we have officially obtained a patent for the technology related to the “Automatic Particle Size Distribution Tracking Atomizer System in Spray Drying” which was recently developed by us.

Patent Overview
Title: Spray Drying Process
Publication Number: JP-A-2018-143944 (P2018-143944A)
Publication Date: September 20, 2018
Patent Holder: PRECI Co., Ltd.
URL: https://www.j-platpat.inpit.go.jp/c1801/PU/JP-2018-143944/11/ja

Key Features of the Technology
This invention relates to a spray drying process designed to stabilize the particle size distribution of dried particles produced during the production and thereby manufacture high-quality powder products. The system incorporates our proprietary Automatic Particle Size Distribution Tracking Atomizer System. The technology measures the particle size of powder flowing through the process in real time and feeds the obtained data back to the rotary atomizer, automatically adjusting its rotational speed. Rather than maintaining a fixed rotational speed, the system automatically controls the particle size according to a preset target particle size. This innovative technology enables consistent particle size control throughout the powder manufacturing process.

The patented technology utilizes a laser diffraction method based on Mie theory, which is adopted by ISO standards, to perform real-time particle measurement across a size range of 0.1 to 2,500μm. By analyzing angular light-scattering intensity data generated by laser irradiation, the system calculates particle size distributions using the diameter of volume-equivalent spheres as the particle size parameter. A sampling point is installed in the powder recovery line to continuously measure the particle size distribution of the flowing powder. The measured values are then fed back to the rotary atomizer control system, which automatically adjusts the rotational speed using a proprietary patented algorithm. Through rapid and continuous feedback control, the system can achieve exceptionally precise control of particle size distribution.

CEO’s Comment
Powders are aggregates of particles with various sizes, and therefore particle size is expressed as a particle size distribution rather than a single value. While rotary atomizers are capable of producing powders with narrow particle size distributions, environmental conditions during powder production are not constant. To more effectively monitor the manufacturing process and maintain stable product quality, it is essential to move beyond conventional fixed-speed control and instead perform real-time measurement of particle size distribution with automatic particle size control. We believe that this patent grant recognizes the powder processing expertise and research achievements that we have cultivated over many years. By commercializing products that incorporate this patented technology, we aim to support our customers solve challenges in both R&D and production processes. We will continue to develop proprietary technologies, strengthen our intellectual property portfolio, and drive sustainable technological innovation.

Hayato Kato, Group CEO

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