When testing the quality of
Alloy Powder, is it acceptable to simply open a bag and conduct the test? How to sample scientifically and standardly? What are the standard steps for sampling? Today, technical personnel from Sagwell will discuss this issue with you.
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Ultra-fine
Alloy Powders (especially those with a particle size <20μm) are prone to agglomeration, dust generation, and static electricity, and their composition and particle size distribution may be uneven. Therefore, sampling must follow strict standards.
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There are two general national standards followed for metal powders:
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1. ISO 3954: 2007 Powders for Powder Metallurgy — Sampling Methods The core principle is to extract multiple incremental samples from the batch, mix them into a composite sample, and then subdivide it into test samples, emphasizing the avoidance of segregation and contamination.
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2. ASTM B215-24 Standard Specification for Sampling Metal Powders It specifies specific procedures and methods such as stratified sampling and container sampling.
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At the same time, technical personnel from Sagwell also stated that sampling steps are equally crucial.
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First, the number of samples: Determine the minimum number of sampling points based on the batch size (e.g., ISO 3954 stipulates that at least 10 incremental samples should be taken per batch).
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Second, sampling locations: Collect samples from multiple points in the packaging container, including top, middle, bottom, center, and edge.
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For different alloy powder testing items, corresponding sampling quantities and pre-treatment are required. For chemical composition analysis, representative samples should be taken to avoid contamination, and vacuum packaging is necessary if required.
For particle size testing (laser diffraction/SEM), samples need to be dispersed after sampling (e.g., adding dispersants, ultrasonic treatment) to prevent agglomeration from affecting results. For the determination of apparent density and tap density, samples are taken directly using standard containers (e.g., Hall flowmeter method). Testing of powder flowability requires dry samples without agglomeration.
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Therefore, scientific sampling is the foundation for ensuring accurate quality data of alloy powders. Representative samples should be obtained through multi-point and stratified methods, and standardized treatment should be performed for different testing items. As a supplier of ultra-fine materials, Sagwell not only provides metal powders that meet standards but also ensures high stability between product batches according to your specific application requirements.
