Aeration aids flowability

Freeman Technology, of Malvern in the UK, has introduced an aeration accessory for its FT3 powder rheometer, which enables users to run their standard flowability tests while aerating or even fluidising a sample. The new accessory allows flowability energy and flowability indices to be derived as a function of the amount of air present, and also introduces the facility to measure a powder's permeability.

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 improve efficiency, the company says.

A metered air supply is controlled as it is fed into the power-testing vessel through a specially designed base fitted with a porous steel mesh. Flow rates from 10ml to 5 litres/minute can 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.