Eurochem debut for Freeman Technology
Eurochem debut for Freeman TechnologyKeywords: Freeman Technology, Rheology
Worcestershire (UK)-based powder measurement specialists Freeman Technology exhibited this year at Eurochem in Birmingham, UK, for the first time.
On display was the company's FT3 Powder Rheometer, a system that provides a novel means of assessing the flowability of powders, claiming the prospect of significant increases in processing efficiency across a wide range of industries, with consequent cost savings.
The FT3 evaluates flow properties in a small sample of material (10-300ml) by first pre-conditioning it to produce a consistent bed and then measuring the torque, force and energy in the test chamber, as a blade traces a precise helical path through the powder.
Routine measurements with the FT3 are said to be fast and straightforward. Standard programmes are automated and produce highly repeatable results in just a few minutes. The resulting data provide flow rate and compaction indices,numbers that describe the key variables affecting flowability.
Where particular factors, such as electrostatic charge effects, moisture content or storage temperatures, for example, are thought to be causing processing variability, the FT3's flexibility and sensitivity are said to allow detailed investigations. In each case, even small rheological variations can be detected and analysed. Importantly, these measurements have been shown to accurately predict actual experiences with a particular powder.
Details available from: Freeman Technology. Tel: +44 (0) 1684 310860; Fax:+44 (0) 1684 310236; E-mail: info@freemantech.co.uk
