Kato Koken Releases 'Apex series' Particle Visualization System to Identify Dust Sources
Kato Koken Co., Ltd. has launched the 'Apex series,' a system that visualizes fine particles to support foreign object and dust control in manufacturing and cleanroom environments. By combining specialized light sources, high-sensitivity cameras, and software, it enables real-time monitoring of particle movement and changes, aiding in quality improvement and root cause analysis.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 18, 2026 at 19:27
- 🔍 Collected: May 18, 2026 at 11:01
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 18, 2026 at 11:16 (14 min after Collected)
## Fine Particle Visualization System Apex series
Kato Koken Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture; CEO: Kaho Kato) has released the 'Apex series,' a fine particle visualization system that helps identify dust sources and track changes before and after implementing countermeasures.
The Apex series is a comprehensive system integrating a light source, a high-sensitivity camera, and dedicated software. Features such as real-time particle counting, graphical display, static difference analysis, and image overlay support contamination control in manufacturing sites and cleanrooms.
### Three Models for Diverse Environments
Users can choose from three models based on their application and environment:
- **AP-GR**: High-sensitivity model using a green laser sheet, suitable for visualizing fine particles (from 0.3μm). Ideal for cleanrooms, semiconductors, and precision equipment.
- **AP-Yellow**: Uses a luminescence light source to reduce the burden of laser safety measures. Suited for general production lines and painting processes (from 1μm).
- **AP-LR**: An entry-level model using a red LED light source, designed for easy checking of coarse particles in bright environments (from 5μm).
### Background and Key Features
While conventional particle counters can quantify particles, they struggle to show where particles originate or how they move. The Apex series addresses this by providing visual evidence, enabling users to prioritize countermeasures and record improvement activities.
1. **Visualizing Invisible Particles**: See the origin and path of particles to prioritize actions.
2. **Real-time Monitoring**: Synchronize live video with particle count graphs for immediate feedback.
3. **Customizable Configurations**: Systems can be tailored to specific particle sizes and safety requirements.
Kato Koken Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Isehara City, Kanagawa Prefecture; CEO: Kaho Kato) has released the 'Apex series,' a fine particle visualization system that helps identify dust sources and track changes before and after implementing countermeasures.
The Apex series is a comprehensive system integrating a light source, a high-sensitivity camera, and dedicated software. Features such as real-time particle counting, graphical display, static difference analysis, and image overlay support contamination control in manufacturing sites and cleanrooms.
### Three Models for Diverse Environments
Users can choose from three models based on their application and environment:
- **AP-GR**: High-sensitivity model using a green laser sheet, suitable for visualizing fine particles (from 0.3μm). Ideal for cleanrooms, semiconductors, and precision equipment.
- **AP-Yellow**: Uses a luminescence light source to reduce the burden of laser safety measures. Suited for general production lines and painting processes (from 1μm).
- **AP-LR**: An entry-level model using a red LED light source, designed for easy checking of coarse particles in bright environments (from 5μm).
### Background and Key Features
While conventional particle counters can quantify particles, they struggle to show where particles originate or how they move. The Apex series addresses this by providing visual evidence, enabling users to prioritize countermeasures and record improvement activities.
1. **Visualizing Invisible Particles**: See the origin and path of particles to prioritize actions.
2. **Real-time Monitoring**: Synchronize live video with particle count graphs for immediate feedback.
3. **Customizable Configurations**: Systems can be tailored to specific particle sizes and safety requirements.
FAQ
Where can I purchase the Apex series?
It is available through Kato Koken's official website or authorized distributors. Please contact the manufacturer for details.
What kind of support is provided after installation?
They provide support ranging from proposing system configurations suited to specific site conditions to assistance with software operation.
What environments are recommended for use?
It can be used in various environments from cleanrooms to general production lines, depending on the model chosen based on particle size and brightness.