Do you need to measure the flow rate of your metal powders according to ASTM B213 ?
Securing ASD manufacturing processes with ASTM B213
In the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, the quality of metal powders used for Additive Manufacturing (AM) or Powder Metallurgy (PM) is a safety imperative. Poor flowability, verified by rheological analysis, can alter the density of produced parts and the repeatability of your essential processes.
ASTM B213 defines a standard test method for determining the flow rate (Hall Flow) of metal powders using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel. This parameter is fundamental to ensuring correct mold filling and the uniformity of the powder bed in 3D printing machines.
At FILAB, we support manufacturers in the ASD supply chain with the characterization of their metal powders according to ASTM B213.
ASTM B213: A key challenge for additive manufacturing and foundry
Determination of flow rate (Hall Flow) according to ASTM B213
The ASTM B213 standard relies on measuring the time required for a 50-gram mass of powder to flow through a calibrated orifice (Hall Funnel).
It is specifically used to:
- Qualify the flowability of powders (Titanium, Nickel, Aluminum, Steel).
- Verify batch homogeneity between receipt (virgin powder) and recycling (re-used powder).
- Optimize production parameters based on the material's rheology.
In the Aerospace and Defense industries, mastering flowability according to ASTM B213 has a direct impact on:
- Compaction quality and the absence of porosity.
- Dimensional accuracy of complex parts.
- Long-term reliability of strategic components produced from metal powders.
FILAB, a laboratory tailored to Aerospace & Defense requirements
An analytical park dedicated to ASTM B213 testing
Analysis according to ASTM B213 requires a controlled environment to prevent humidity from influencing results. To meet these requirements, FILAB provides its clients with state-of-the-art physical characterization tools :
Dedicated material expertise services
At FILAB, ASTM B213 analysis is part of a comprehensive powder characterization approach. We do not just measure a flow time: we help you understand your material’s behavior. Our teams work on :
Titanium (Ti-6Al-4V), Inconel, Stainless Steel, and Aluminum powders
Expertise on manufacturing defects linked to poor flowability
Monitoring of powder aging after multiple printing cycles
Why Choose FILAB ?
- 45 years of recognized expertise in analysis and materials science
- Dual competence: Chemistry / Materials
- Specializing in metallic alloys and critical applications
- Customer qualification : Safran, Dassault Aviation, and Framatome
- ISO 17025 Accreditation regarding metallic alloys
Analysis of Iron, Aluminium, Molybdenum, Copper, Tin, Chromium, Titanium, Lead, Nickel, Zinc
Learn moreOur analytical services based on ISO and ASTM standards for the ASD sector
Our analytical services in accordance with MIL requirements for the ASD sector
FAQ
ASTM B213 applies to free-flowing powders. If a powder does not flow through the Hall Funnel orifice (powders that are too fine or cohesive), the Carney Funnel is generally used according to ASTM B964.
Humidity can create liquid bridges between particles, slowing down or blocking flow. Filab performs tests in controlled hygrometry conditions and can perform prior drying in accordance with the standard to ensure repeatability.
The standard test requires a minimum of 50 grams of powder per measurement. Several replicates are generally performed to guarantee the statistical reliability of the Hall Flow rate.
The Hall Funnel has a 2.5 mm orifice, while the Carney Funnel has a wider 5.0 mm orifice. The choice depends on the morphology and grain size of your powder.
