The Cole-Parmer® BM-600 planetary mill high-energy ball mill grinds samples with a mechanical motion rotating the jar in one direction while the platform, planetary wheel, often referred to as the sun wheel, is rotated in the opposite direction. The mechanical milling is performed at a 2:1 ratio causing the jar to rotate twice for every single rotation of the sun wheel. As the jar is moved, the relative centrifugal force is transferred to the grinding balls causing them to move in a circular motion, into each other and against the jar wall, grinding the sample. Functionally described as a high-shearing or a high-energy ball mill, this mill is used for pulverizing rocks, minerals, sand, cement, slag, ceramics, glass, and other brittle to hard samples to analytical fineness, blending powders or making emulsions.

The mills also feature a touch screen display, sleek modern design, forced-air cooling, a safety interlock, and a choice of hardened steel or stainless steel grinding jars and media, which are purchased separately.