Microtrac Buys Honeywell's Particle Size Measurement Business

Honeywell Inc. has sold its Microtrac Inc. (Montgomeryville, PA) particle size measurement equipment business to Nikkiso Co., Ltd., Microtrac's exclusive Japanese distributor since 1979. Nikkiso, a $400 million manufacturer of industrial pumps, water conditioning systems, and hemodialysis machines, claims it is Japan's market leader in particle size measurement systems. The transaction was effective January 1, 2000.

The business traces its roots back 22 years, when Leeds & Northrup Co. launched the business based on its patented laser technology. It has since achieved broad industry recognition.

"The future outlook of Microtrac business is very promising," says Microtrac president Bob Sheng. He says the company's goal is to become the world's top supplier of particle size measurement products.

The company makes three particle size analyzers that provide wet or dry measurement of particles from 0.04 microns through 2000 microns using laser diffraction analysis. A fourth wet-only unit provides measurements down to 0.003 microns by application of a controlled reference to dynamic light scattering.

Microtrac's SRA 200 uses laser diffraction analysis to provide highly accurate analyses of particles in the 2.75-2000 micron range.

In addition, the company manufactures small-volume particle size recirculators and particle analysis software. It also provides training classes and laboratory services.

Aside from its Montgomeryville headquarters, Microtrac also operates a sales and service center in Clearwater, FL, and a manufacturing facility in York, PA. The company retains its previous management.

For more information: Bob Sheng, President, Microtrac Inc., 148 Keystone Dr., Montgomeryville, PA 18939. Phone: 1-888-643-5880 or 215-283-9288. Fax: 215-641-3527.

By Alan S. Brown