Powder size separation is an important unit operation in powder metallurgy and ceramic industry. Recent trends in powder science and technology to extend its range towards finer size has been affecting many related unit operations. The size classification of micron and sub- micron size powders by sieving is not feasible. Elutriation and air classification are the only accepted techniques for the separation of fine and ultra fine powders in industrial scale. Air classification is the only feasible technique when either process or material requirements demand powder to be in dry condition.

BARC has designed and developed a Micron Air Classifier (MAC-150) based on modified free vortex principle. Technology for the fabrication of MAC-150 is available for commercial exploitation.

In modern powder metallurgy/ceramic industry, it is desirable to have very accurate and reproducible size classification of micron size powders in order to improve functional properties of the materials being produced. MAC-150 air classifier is ideally suited where dry powder separation is of main interest. MAC-150 air classifier is designed to produce fine powders tailored to desired size distribution.