Do you need to measure the skeletal density of your metal powders according to ASTM B923?
Securing the quality of your industrial powders with ASTM B923
In the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, the physical compliance of materials is a safety imperative. Skeletal density is a fundamental data point: any deviation from the theoretical value can reveal the presence of porosity or impurities within the material, compromising the performance of your parts.
ASTM B923 specifies the standard test method for determining the skeletal density of metal powders by gas pycnometry. This non-destructive technique is the reference for obtaining an ultra-precise volume measurement by excluding interparticle voids and open pores.
At FILAB, we support manufacturers in the ASD supply chain with the particle size analysis and density testing of their powders according to ASTM B923. Our goal is clear: to ensure the reliability of your technical and industrial decisions.
ASTM B923: a key challenge for skeletal density validation
Density measurement by helium pycnometry according to ASTM B923
The principle of ASTM B923 relies on the displacement of an inert gas, usually helium, in a precision chamber. Thanks to its very small atomic size, helium infiltrates the smallest crevices of the material to measure its exact true volume.
It is specifically used to:
- Calculate internal porosity of powders intended for Additive Manufacturing.
- Verify the purity of Titanium, Aluminum, Nickel, or Cobalt alloys.
- Monitor the stability of metal powders after several recycling cycles.
In the Aerospace and Defense industries, mastering this property according to ASTM B923 has a direct impact on:
- Precise weight calculation of structures.
- Sintering quality.
- Long-term reliability of strategic components exposed to high-pressure environments.
FILAB, a laboratory tailored to aerospace & defense requirements
An analytical park dedicated to ASTM B923 testing
Measurement according to ASTM B923 requires high-sensitivity instrumentation and perfect system tightness. To meet these requirements, FILAB provides its clients with state-of-the-art equipment :
Dedicated material expertise services
At FILAB, analyses according to ASTM B923 are part of a comprehensive physical and morphological characterization approach. We do not just provide a figure: we analyze the causes of density variation. Our teams work on :
Metal powders (Spheroidized, Gas Atomized)
R&D support for the optimization of new alloys
Sintered or porous materials
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
Our FAQ
Both standards describe the same gas pycnometry technique. ASTM B923 is more specifically oriented towards metal powders according to the North American framework, while ISO 12154 is a more generalist international standard. FILAB applies both protocols according to your needs.
No, helium pycnometry is a totally non-destructive method. The sample can be recovered after analysis and used for other tests, unless there is a specific risk of cross-contamination for your application.
Helium is preferred because it is a monoatomic gas with a very small atomic radius, capable of penetrating pores inaccessible to nitrogen or air. This provides the most faithful "skeletal" volume measurement.
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.
