Side-loading sample holders are a great way to minimize preferred orientation compared to top-loading designs. That benefit alone makes them worth considering, but when paired with our side-loading tool, powders can be loaded much faster than any other style of holder.
This is the second generation tool from KSA with improvements based on user feedback and our own in-house experience with the first generation tool. Notable changes include the integration of the alignment bosses in the body of the tool and the added versatility of two modes of use.
Higher-volume labs have preferred to place the holder flat against the glass place, load it, and pull it straight away. This works well, but we've run across a few powders that were simply too "fluffy" and light to stay flat as the holder was pulled away from the glass. The new design can be used in the traditional way OR the lower boss can be removed and a spring finger (available separately) can be added to allow the user to slide the sample holders onto and off of the tool. This avoids disrupting the surface of light powders.
The tool works best when powder is loaded a little at a time and the tool is tapped against a tabletop in between scoops. The user can watch the powder fill the well directly through the glass window.
