Dynamic tap density as a powder characterisation technique for metal powders

Abstract

Powder characterisation is critical for developing high-quality, consistent powder metallurgy processes and materials. Internationally standardised tests have been developed to measure specific powder characteristics that are relevant to specific powder metallurgy manufacturing techniques. Dynamic tap density is a new characterisation method for granular materials that has not yet been applied to metal powders. In this study, the dynamic tap density of different metal powders is measured and compared to standard powder characteristics. The results support the theoretical assumption that observing the dynamic tap density can give you further information on the powder characteristics and whether the powder will be suitable for a specific powder metallurgy process.