Do you need to measure the flow rate of your metal powders according to ISO 4490?
Securing ASD manufacturing processes with ISO 4490
In the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, the consistency of metal powders is a safety imperative. Non-compliant flowability can alter the precision of material deposition and the compactness (density) of your essential parts.
ISO 4490 specifies a method for determining the flow rate of metal powders using a calibrated flowmeter (Hall Flowmeter Funnel). This measurement is fundamental to validating the quality of powders intended for Additive Manufacturing or Sintering.
At FILAB, we support manufacturers in the ASD supply chain with the characterization of their powders according to ISO 4490. Our goal is clear: to ensure the reliability of your technical and industrial decisions.
ISO 4490: a key challenge for powder rheology
Determination of flow time according to ISO 4490
The ISO 4490 standard relies on measuring the time required for a 50-gram mass of powder to flow through a standardized orifice. This parameter, called "flow rate", quantifies the material's flowability.
It is specifically used to:
- Qualify the rheology of Titanium, Steel, Nickel, or Aluminum powders.
- Detect quality drifts between different supplier batches.
- Evaluate recycling aptitude of powders after several manufacturing cycles (re-use).
In the Aerospace and Defense industries, mastering flowability according to ISO 4490 has a direct impact on:
- Final density of produced parts.
- Microstructure homogeneity of the material.
- In-service performance of strategic components subjected to dynamic stresses.
FILAB, a laboratory tailored to Aerospace & Defense requirements
An analytical park dedicated to ISO 4490 testing
Flow measurement according to ISO 4490 requires absolute execution rigor to guarantee reproducible results. To meet these demands, FILAB provides its clients with state-of-the-art tools :
Dedicated material expertise services
At FILAB, ISO 4490 analysis is part of a comprehensive powder characterization approach. We do not just measure a flow rate: we help you optimize your value chain. Our teams work on :
Validation of virgin and recycled powders
Advice on storage conditions to preserve flowability
Correlation between flowability and grain morphology (SEM)
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
These two standards are technically very similar and use the same equipment (the Hall Flowmeter Funnel). ISO 4490 is the international reference preferred by European manufacturers, while ASTM B213 is more common in North American projects. Filab masters both protocols.
If the powder does not flow spontaneously, it is considered "non-free-flowing" according to this method. In this case, Filab can propose other techniques, such as using the Carney Funnel or more advanced rheology analyses.
Yes, particle size and shape are dominant factors. A finer powder often tends to flow less easily than a coarser powder due to increased cohesive forces.
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.
