Automated Diffuser Stone Calibrator StoneDDI

Unbiased and reliable digital detection experience.

The StoneDDI Automated Diffuser Stone Calibration System represents a breakthrough in ASTM D892 compliance testing, delivering unparalleled precision and reliability for petroleum laboratory operations. Unlike traditional manual calibration methods that rely on subjective visual assessment and timing, our fully automated system eliminates human error while ensuring consistent, repeatable results every time.

Advanced Dual Camera Technology

At the heart of the StoneDDI system lies sophisticated dual camera configuration paired with proprietary vision algorithms. This innovative approach captures and analyzes pore characteristics with microscopic precision, automatically calculating pore diameters using the calibrated equation D = 8930/(PmmH2O-80). The system’s advanced imaging technology identifies and measures individual pores, providing accurate diameter calculations that meet or exceed ASTM D892 standard requirements.

Fully Automated Operation vs Manual Alternatives

While competitors like Tannas & King offer purely manual devices requiring operator interpretation and timing, the StoneDDI automatic diffuser stone calibrator streamlines the entire process. Our system automatically:

• Captures high-resolution images of diffuser stone surfaces
• Identifies and measures pore diameters using advanced algorithms
• Calculates complianc ewith ASTM D892 specifications
• Generates comprehensive reports with pass/fail determinations
• Logs all measurement data for quality assurance tracking

ASTM D892 Compliance and Accuracy

The StoneDDI is specifically engineered for ASTM D892 diffuser stone calibration applications, ensuring laboratory maintains the highest standards of accuracy and compliance. Automated measurement process eliminates the variability inherent in manual methods, where operator bias, lighting conditions, and timing can significantly impact results.

In accordance with standardised methods such as ASTM D892, D6082 and IP 146, performing foam stability and foaming tendencies of lubricant oils involves a tightly controlled flow of gas, typically air, being dispersed into a measured volume of the test liquid at predetermined conditions of time, air flows and temperatures.

The creation of foam can be associated with the nature of the oil in question and the efficiency with which the diffuser funnels air into the formulations being tested. A faulty diffuser impacts the quality of the analysis, therefore impacting the overall performance of the tests.

These test methods require that the condition of the diffuser used has pore sizes and permeabilities. Calibration of diffusers to verify maximum pore size and permeability has been found to be a critical factor for the tests. It is recommended that these diffusers be calibrated when new and periodically checked after each test.

The Stone Digital Detection Imaging Apparatus StoneDDI easily provides unbiased and reliable measurements of pore size distribution and flow rates of plastic, ceramic, and metallic diffusers of different shapes and dimensions.

Key Advantages Over Manual Systems

Precision: Automated measurement eliminates subjective interpretation, delivering consistent results with superior accuracy compared to visual assessment methods.

Efficiency: Complete calibration cycles in minutes rather than the extended timeframes required for manual verification processes.

Repeatability: Identical measurement conditions ensure reproducible results across multiple operators and testing sessions.

Documentation: Comprehensive data logging and reporting capabilities support quality management systems and regulatory compliance requirements.

Technical Innovation

The StoneDDI’s vision algorithm technology represents years of development in automated measurement systems. Our proprietary software analyzes pore characteristics with sub-micron precision, identifying edge definitions and calculating diameters with mathematical accuracy impossible to achieve through manual methods.

For pore size verification, StoneDDI directs air to the diffuser that is immersed in water in a glass measuring cylinder. The high precision and accuracy of the calibration is guaranteed by the precise control of air flows and procedural steps, adhering to the standard methods, with minimal operator manipulation. This eliminates the critical timing involved in the manual assessment and characterises the calibrations by high repeatability and reproducibility. The automatic system produces simultaneously plots, pictures and videos, allowing visually and integrally characterise your analysers.

The calibrator automatically measures the pressure in Pa and converts it in mm H2O. The diameter is calculated by the equation D = 8930/(PmmH2O-80) for metallic diffusers utilising isopropanol as the diffuser medium. The permeability is considered to be equal to the flow rate measured at 2.45 kPa of pressure.

Laboratory Integration

Designed for seamless integration into existing petroleum testing laboratories, the StoneDDI features a compact benchtop design that fits standard laboratory workflows. The intuitive touchscreen interface requires minimal training, while comprehensive data export capabilities ensure compatibility with laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Future-Proof Technology

As ASTM standards evolve and laboratory automation requirements increase, the StoneDDI system’s modular design and software-based measurement algorithms ensure long-term compatibility and upgradeability. This investment in automated diffuser stone calibration technology positions your laboratory at the forefront of lubricant testing innovation.