Aeration Accessory for FT3 Powder Rheometer

Keywords: Powder, Aeration

Freeman Technology has introduced a new Aeration Accessory for its FT3 Powder Rheometer. This reportedly enables users to run their standard flowability tests whilst aerating or even fluidising a sample. Data from the FT3 is said to be proving valuable in characterising a wide range of powders and granulated materials and the new accessory adds further capabilities, allowing flowability energy and flowability indices to be derived as a function of the amount of air present. It also introduces the facility to measure a powder's permeability.

The degree of aeration of a powder has a significant impact on its flow properties. Industrial processing and handling of powders involves the removal or addition of air to the bulk powder. For example, pneumatic conveying can fully aerate powders, whereas storage under pressure or in vibratory conditions may lead to consolidation as a result of air removal. Quantifying the flow properties as a function of the amount of air present allows users to more closely match their process or plant to the characteristics of the powder being processed and so greatly improve efficiency.

According to Freeman the new FT3 aeration accessory controls a metered air supply as it is fed into the powder-testing vessel through a specially designed base fitted with a porous stainless steel mesh. Flow rates from 0.1 to 5 litres/minute can reportedly be achieved. The base supports the powder and allows the passage of air into it, ensuring that discharge is uniform over the area of the powder column. A standard laboratory air supply can be used. This is simply connected to the aeration kit control unit, which contains a pressure reducing valve, filter, pressure gauges and two flow meters, either of which can be used depending on the flow rate required.

Details available from: Freeman Technology, Tel: +44 (0) 1684 310 860-; Fax:+44 (0) 1684 310 236; E-mail: info@freemantech.co.uk; Website: http://www.freemantech.co.uk