Work Item
ASTM WK55610
New Test Methods for the Characterization of Powder Flow Properties for Additive Manufacturing Applications
1. Scope
1.1The following standard serves as a guide for evaluating the flow properties of powders intended for use in additive manufacturing (AM) applications. The guide considers the various factors that influence powder behavior and introduces test methodologies designed to measure these properties. It is intended to provide guidance to all users in the AM process from powder producers and suppliers through to machinery manufacturers and end-users. 1.2The aim of this document is to describe test protocols for characterizing the flow properties of powders in order to create consistency across all applications and sectors. 1.3The test protocols consist of a suite of tests to measure a range of properties that influence powder behavior and quantify how a powder responds to changes in stress and flow regimes present in the process environment. All of the tests described should be able to be performed by a single instrument to enhance efficiency and minimize capital outlay. 1.4There are many factors that may influence the reported properties, including method of material storage and preparation, method of sample preparation, testing environment, and testing temperature. These factors should be recorded, to the extent that they are known, according to F2971. 1.5SI units will be used throughout this standard. 1.6This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Keywords
Powder, powder flow, powder rheometer, powder characterization, powder behavior, dynamic flow, aeration, compaction, consolidation, bulk density, compressibility, pressure drop, permeability, shear cell, wall friction, Freeman Technology, FT4, additive manufacturing, 3D printing, yield strength, cohesion, adhesion
Rationale
Suitable standards would be applied to all aspects of the Additive Manufacturing pipeline starting with the suppliers of the raw materials, who would use the data to optimise their production process and ultimately establish quality control criteria to ensure that powders being shipped to clients are of an acceptable standard. Similar criteria would then be applied by end-users to evaluate incoming materials, as well as define optimum machine settings, to ensure final products are manufactured efficiently and economically while meeting the required standards.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 08-08-2016
Technical Contact: Amalia Thomas
Item: 000
Ballot:
Status: