Sample Volume and Probe Size

Selecting the proper size probe is extremely important. Each probe has an approximate recommended sample volume range. See the chart below for guidance. For example the ½” probe can process approximately 20-250ml. Depending on the vessel size and shape, the ½” probe may have difficulty fitting inside a 20ml volume and a microtip may be a better option. Sample vessel size and shape is a factor when selecting a probe.

Small volumes require a small tip to fit inside the sample tube. Small tips (microtips) are recommended for processing samples inside small, thin vessels and never samples larger than 50ml. Microtips are high intensity and made for short processing times. A microtip will generate a considerable amount of heat in small volumes and therefore should be used in the pulse mode to prevent heat buildup.

Larger volumes require a larger probe for effective processing. For example a 1” probe will process 1 liter more quickly than a ¾” probe. Using the proper size probe will not only reduce the processing time but increase the lifespan of the probe. Note when processing 1L or more, using a stir bar can increase a probeʼs processing volume.

While there is no absolute sample volume range for any probe/horn, to the right is a general guideline to follow. Processing volumes are application specific. Contact us for more details.

Probe Tip
Diameter		 Process
Volume Range		 Amplitude
Microns		 Probe
Length		 Materials
final size
1/16″ (1.6 mm) 0.2 ml ~ 15 ml 320 μm 9 cm 2 ~3 nanometer
1/8″ (3.2 mm) 0.5 ml ~ 25 ml 180 μm 14 cm 3 nanometer
1/4″ (6.4 mm) 10 ml ~ 100 ml 120 μm 11 cm 3 nanometer
8.0 mm 10 ml ~ 200 ml 100 μm 11 cm 3 nanometer
9.0 mm 10 ml ~ 250 ml 90 μm 10 cm 4 nanometer
10.0 mm 20 ml ~ 300 ml 80 μm 10 cm 4 nanometer
1/2″ (12.7mm) 20 ml ~ 300 ml 60 ~ 120 μm 13 cm 3 ~5 nanometer
16.0 mm 20 ml ~ 600 ml 70 13 cm 5 nanometer
3/4″ (19.1mm) 50 ml ~ 800 ml 60 μm 28 cm 5 nanometer
20.0 mm 50 ml ~ 900 ml 55 ~80 μm 28 cm 7 nanometer
1″ (25.4mm) 100 ml ~ 1000 ml 35 μm 28 cm 7 nanometer
30.0 mm 100 ml ~ 3 litre 35 μm 30 cm 8 nanometer
40.0 mm 1000 ml ~ 25 litre 25 μm 30 cm 10 nanometer
50.0 mm  1000 ml ~ 30 litre 30 μm 50 cm 10 nanometer

* Depends on the frequency & probe design, the vibration amplitude will also change accordingly. however, the principle & philosophy is same.
* The processed material’s final size depends on the processing duration time, and material’s characteristics & propertites.
* The probe length & total length will be different according to frequency & design.
* The probe length & tip diameter are all customizable.