Do you need to measure the flow rate of your metal powders according to ASTM B964?
Securing ASD manufacturing processes with ASTM B964
In the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, the quality of metal powders is a safety imperative. For certain fine powders or those with irregular morphologies, standard flow is difficult to achieve. Poor flowability can alter the precision of the powder bed and the quality of your essential parts.
ASTM B964 defines the standard test method for determining the flow rate of metal powders using the Carney Funnel. This method is the indispensable alternative for powders that do not flow using the Hall Funnel (ASTM B213), thus ensuring a reliable characterization of your raw materials.
At FILAB, we support manufacturers in the ASD supply chain with the characterization of their powders according to ASTM B964. Our goal is clear: to ensure the reliability of your technical and industrial decisions.
ASTM B964: A key challenge for fine and complex powders
Determination of flow rate (Carney Flow) according to ASTM B964
Unlike the Hall funnel, the Carney funnel features a wider orifice, allowing for the measurement of the flow rate of more cohesive powders or those with a finer particle size distribution.
It is specifically used to:
- Characterize the flowability of powders that fail the Hall test.
- Verify batch homogeneity of Additive Manufacturing powders.
- Qualify recycled powders whose morphology may have evolved.
In the Aerospace and Defense industries, mastering flowability according to ASTM B964 has a direct impact on:
- Layer deposition regularity in metal 3D printing.
- Density and absence of defects in sintered components.
- In-service performance of strategic components derived from Powder Metallurgy (PM) processes.
FILAB, a laboratory tailored to Aerospace & Defense requirements
An analytical park dedicated to ASTM B964 testing
Flow measurement according to ASTM B964 requires perfectly maintained and calibrated equipment. To meet these demands, FILAB provides its clients with state-of-the-art physical characterization tools :
Dedicated material expertise services
At FILAB, ASTM B964 analysis is part of a comprehensive powder characterization approach. We do not simply provide a result; we interpret the rheological behavior of your materials. Our teams work on :
Superalloy, Titanium, and Special Steel powders
Technical support for choosing the most suitable standard (Hall vs. Carney)
Diagnosis of "non-flowability" and search for solutions (drying, morphology)
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 B964 (Carney) is used whenever a powder does not flow through the Hall funnel (2.5 mm orifice) or if the flow is inconsistent. The Carney orifice of 5.0 mm allows for the characterization of these more difficult materials.
Yes. Although spherical powders generally flow very well in the Hall test, ASTM B964 can be used for extremely fine spherical powders that may exhibit some cohesion.
The result is highly sensitive to humidity. If the standard or your specifications require it, Filab can perform prior oven drying of the powder to measure flowability in a dry state.
To get a quote, you can contact our teams via our contact form, by phone, or by email. Simply send us your requirements (type of material, desired analysis, specific standard, urgency, sample quantity...). We will then send you a personalized technical and price proposal within 24-48 hours.
