SFM-8 Powder Grinder with Agate Mortar and Pestle

Automated powder grinding for reproducible sample preparation

The SFM-8 Powder Grinder with Agate Mortar and Pestle is an automated laboratory mortar grinder designed for small-batch grinding, mixing and homogenisation of powders and research compounds. Its working principle is based on controlled pressure and friction between the rotating mortar and the adjustable pestle, allowing the sample to be continuously ground and mixed for more uniform preparation. Mortar grinding is a well-established laboratory technique for fine and consistent size reduction, especially where gentle but effective processing is preferred over high-impact milling.

Key features and specifications

This model is supplied with an agate mortar and agate pestle head, with a mortar size of approximately Ø120 mm × 34 mm. The unit operates on a safe 24 V DC input and includes a 110–240 V AC to 24 V DC adapter. Reported specifications include 150 W maximum power consumption, adjustable mortar speed of 0–10 rpm, adjustable pestle speed of 0–80 rpm, spring-adjustable grinding pressure, dimensions of 300 × 250 × 530 mm, net weight of 18 kg, and package weight of 22 kg. The grinding time can be set using the automated controller, supporting more repeatable sample preparation workflows.

Material benefits, compatibility and applications

Agate is widely preferred for laboratory mortars because it is hard, chemically resistant and helps minimise cross-contamination compared with many conventional grinding surfaces. Its fine grain structure also helps with cleaning between samples. This makes the SFM-8 well suited to battery material preparation, ceramic powders, catalyst powders, mineral samples, inorganic compounds and other materials research tasks where cleanliness and sample integrity matter. The manufacturer also notes that the compact system can be used in a glove box through an air-lock port for inert-atmosphere workflows.

Why researchers choose ScienceGears

For Australian and New Zealand laboratories, ScienceGears can position this grinder as more than a standalone sample-preparation tool. It fits naturally into broader battery testing, electrochemistry and materials characterisation workflows alongside glovebox equipment, potentiostats, battery cyclers and related research instruments. For teams seeking reproducible powder preparation without the variability of manual grinding, the SFM-8 offers a practical balance of automation, low-contamination agate contact surfaces and small-footprint laboratory operation.