Kato Koken Releases 'Apex series' Particle Visualization System to Identify Dust Sources

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.