ASTM B964-23

Standard Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Carney Funnel

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The rate and uniformity of die cavity filling are related to flow properties, which thus influence production rates and uniformity of compacted parts.  
5.2 The ability of a powder to flow is a function of interparticle friction. As interparticle friction increases, flow is slowed. Some powders, often fine powders and lubricated powder mixtures, may not flow through the Hall funnel of Test Method B213. Nevertheless, if a larger orifice is provided, such as in the Carney funnel, a meaningful flow rate may be determined, providing specific information for certain applications.  
5.3 Test Method B213, using the Hall funnel, is the preferred method for determining the flowability of metal powders. The Carney funnel of these test methods should only be used when a powder will not flow through the Hall funnel. These test methods may also be used for comparison of several powders when some flow through the Hall funnel and some do not.  
5.4 Humidity and moisture content influence flow rate. Wet or moist powders may not flow through either the Hall or the Carney funnel.  
5.5 These test methods are based on flow of a specific mass of powder. If flow of a specific volume of powder is preferred, Test Method B855 may be used for powders that flow readily through the Hall funnel.  
5.6 These test methods may be part of the purchase agreement between powder suppliers and powder metallurgy (PM) part producers, or it can be an internal quality control test by either the supplier or the end user.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of a flow rate, by use of the Carney funnel, of metal powders and powder mixtures that do not readily flow through the Hall funnel of Test Method B213.  
1.2 This is a non-destructive quantitative test performed in the laboratory.  
1.3 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of gram per cubic centimetre (g/cm3) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only, and are not considered standard.  
1.4 This 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Jan-2023
• ICS: 77.160 - Powder metallurgy
• Technical Committee: B09 - Metal Powders and Metal Powder Products
• Drafting Committee: B09.02 - Base Metal Powders

Relations

• Refers: ASTM B213-20 - Standard Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM B243-18 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM B243-16 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2016
• Refers: ASTM B243-13 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM B213-13 - Standard Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2013
• Refers: ASTM B243-12 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2012
• Refers: ASTM B855-11 - Standard Test Method for Volumetric Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Arnold Meter and Hall Flowmeter Funnel
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM B213-11 - Standard Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM B243-11 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM B215-10 - Standard Practices for Sampling Metal Powders
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2010
• Refers: ASTM B243-10 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2010
• Refers: ASTM B243-09a - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2009
• Refers: ASTM B243-09 - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009
• Refers: ASTM B215-08 - Standard Practices for Sampling Metal Powders
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2008
• Refers: ASTM B243-08a - Standard Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2008

Overview

ASTM B964-23: Standard Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Carney Funnel details laboratory procedures for determining the flow rate of metal powders and powder mixtures that do not flow readily through the Hall funnel, as referenced in ASTM B213. This standard provides a non-destructive, quantitative method, offering an important alternative for powders with high interparticle friction, fine powders, and lubricated powder mixtures. Accurate assessment of powder flow characteristics is crucial in powder metallurgy, impacting die cavity filling, production rates, and uniformity of compacted parts.

Key Topics

• Powder Flow Measurement: ASTM B964-23 describes using the Carney funnel, which has a larger orifice than the Hall funnel, to measure the flow rate of powders that exhibit poor flowability through narrower apertures.
• Applicability: The test is suitable only when powders will not flow through the Hall funnel. It serves as an effective comparative method for different powders within the same process or batch.
• Influencing Factors: Flow rate is mainly determined by interparticle friction. Conditions such as humidity and moisture content can significantly impede powder flow, underscoring the importance of controlled laboratory environments.
• Calibration and Reporting: Routine calibration using a certified 316L stainless steel reference powder ensures accuracy and repeatability. The standard outlines procedures for reporting corrected flow rate, ensuring results are consistent and comparable.

Applications

ASTM B964-23 is widely utilized in the powder metallurgy industry and by quality control laboratories. Key applications include:

• Quality Control: Powder manufacturers and end-users rely on this standard to verify consistency in powder flow characteristics, critical for high-quality part production.
• Supplier and Buyer Agreements: Test results may be incorporated into purchase agreements, serving as an objective basis for material acceptance or rejection.
• Research and Development: Laboratories use these test methods to develop new powder formulations and investigate the effects of additives or processing changes.
• Material Comparison: Ideal for side-by-side evaluation of multiple powders-especially when some powders are not amenable to Hall funnel testing but can be tested via the Carney funnel.

Related Standards

To ensure comprehensive analysis and comparability, several ASTM standards are referenced alongside ASTM B964-23:

• ASTM B213: Standard Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel - preferred for powders that flow through the Hall funnel.
• ASTM B215: Practices for Sampling Metal Powders - provides guidelines for representative sampling, critical for meaningful test results.
• ASTM B243: Terminology of Powder Metallurgy - standardizes vocabulary used in the field.
• ASTM B855: Test Method for Volumetric Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Arnold Meter and Hall Flowmeter Funnel – applicable for specific-volume flow rate measurement in free-flowing powders.

Practical Value

Adhering to ASTM B964-23 ensures:

• Reliable assessment of challenging powders: Enables accurate evaluation where traditional Hall funnel methods are inadequate.
• Improved process control: Supports manufacturers in monitoring and adjusting processes to maintain product quality.
• Standardization across the industry: Facilitates clear communication between suppliers and buyers, reducing ambiguities in material specifications.
• International recognition: Developed in accordance with WTO principles, promoting global trade and acceptance.

By implementing ASTM B964-23, organizations can maintain high standards of material quality, facilitate consistent part production, and ensure regulatory compliance within the powder metallurgy industry.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: B964 − 23
Standard Test Methods for
Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Carney Funnel
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B964; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* Powders Using the Arnold Meter and Hall Flowmeter
Funnel
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of a flow
rate, by use of the Carney funnel, of metal powders and powder
3. Terminology
mixtures that do not readily flow through the Hall funnel of
3.1 Definitions of powder metallurgy (PM) terms can be
Test Method B213.
found in Terminology B243.
1.2 This is a non-destructive quantitative test performed in
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
the laboratory.
3.2.1 Carney flow rate (FR ), n—the time required for a
C
1.3 With the exception of the values for density and the
metal powder sample of specified mass to flow through the
mass used to determine density, for which the use of gram per
orifice in a Carney funnel according to a specified procedure.
cubic centimetre (g/cm ) and gram (g) units is the longstanding
3.3 Additional descriptive information is available in the
industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be
Related Materials section of Vol 02.05 of the Annual Book of
regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
ASTM Standards.
mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
information only, and are not considered standard.
4. Summary of Test Methods
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
4.1 A weighed mass of metal powder is timed as it flows
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
through the orifice of a Carney funnel.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
5. Significance and Use
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
5.1 The rate and uniformity of die cavity filling are related
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
to flow properties, which thus influence production rates and
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
uniformity of compacted parts.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 5.2 The ability of a powder to flow is a function of
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical interparticle friction. As interparticle friction increases, flow is
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. slowed. Some powders, often fine powders and lubricated
powder mixtures, may not flow through the Hall funnel of Test
2. Referenced Documents
Method B213. Nevertheless, if a larger orifice is provided, such
as in the Carney funnel, a meaningful flow rate may be
2.1 ASTM Standards:
determined, providing specific information for certain applica-
B213 Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using
tions.
the Hall Flowmeter Funnel
B215 Practices for Sampling Metal Powders
5.3 Test Method B213, using the Hall funnel, is the pre-
B243 Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
ferred method for determining the flowability of metal pow-
B855 Test Method for Volumetric Flow Rate of Metal
ders. The Carney funnel of these test methods should only be
used when a powder will not flow through the Hall funnel.
These test methods may also be used for comparison of several
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B09 on
powders when some flow through the Hall funnel and some do
Metal Powders and Metal Powder Products and are the direct responsibility of
not.
Subcommittee B09.02 on Base Metal Powders.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2023. Published February 2023. Originally
5.4 Humidity and moisture content influence flow rate. Wet
approved in 2009. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as B964 – 16. DOI:
or moist powders may not flow through either the Hall or the
10.1520/B0964-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or Carney funnel.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
5.5 These test methods are based on flow of a specific mass
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. of powder. If flow of a specific volume of powder is preferred,
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
B964 − 23
Test Method B855 may be used for powders that flow readily 6.6 Balance—Having a capacity of at least 250 g and a
through the Hall funnel. sensitivity of 0.01 g.
5.6 These test methods may be part of the purchase agree-
6.7 Weighing Dish—An ordinary laboratory weighing dish
ment between powder suppliers and powder metallurgy (PM) (pan), capable of containing the full mass of tested powder, and
part producers, or it can be an internal quality control test by
preferably made of metal to avoid powder sticking to the dish
either the supplier or the end user. via electrostatic charges.
6. Apparatus
7. Sampling
6.1 Carney Powder Flowmeter Funnel —A calibrated
7.1 A test sample of powder sufficient to run the desired
flowmeter funnel (Fig. 1) having an orifice of 0.200 in.
number of flow tests shall be obtained in accordance with
(5.08 mm) in diameter.
Practices B215.
6.1.1 The funnel shall be made of a non-magnetic,
7.2 Individual test portions, each of approximately the
corrosion-resistant metallic material having sufficient thickness
required mass, shall be obtained from the test sample in
and hardness to withstand distortion and excessive wear.
accordance with Practices B215.
6.1.2 The dimensions shown for the flowmeter funnel (Fig.
1), including the orifice, are not to be considered controlling
8. Preparation of Apparatus
factors. Calibration with the stainless steel reference powder
(6.2), as specified in Section 9, determines the working flow
8.1 Clean the funnel with a clean, dry paper towel.
rate of the funnel.
8.2 Clean the funnel orifice with a clean dry pipe cleaner.
6.2 316L Stainless Steel Reference Powder —A certified
stainless steel powder used to calibrate the flowmeter funnel.
9. Calibration of Apparatus
6.3 Stand —A stand (Fig. 1) to support the powder flowme-
9.1 A new powder flowmeter funnel is supplied as cali-
ter funnel.
brated using a certified 316L stainless steel reference powder
6.4 Base—A level, vibration-free base to support the pow- (see 6.2) as follows (an older flowmeter funnel shall be
calibrated in the same manner):
der flowmeter stand.
9.1.1 Heat an open glass jar that contains the calibration
6.5 Timing Device—A stopwatch or other suitable timing
powder in a drying oven at a temperature of 215 °F to 225 °F
device capable of measuring to the nearest 0.1 s.
(102 °C to 107 °C) for 1 h.
9.1.2 Cool the powder to room temperature in a desiccator.
9.1.3 Follow the procedure outlined in steps 10.2 – 10.2.5
(moving start).
The sole source of supply of the flowmeter funnel, stainless steel reference
powder, and stand known to the committee at this time is Kymera International,
NOTE 1—Stationary start analysis is only possible for some higher
2601 Weck Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. If you are aware of
apparent
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: B964 − 16 B964 − 23
Standard Test Methods for
Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Carney Funnel
This standard is issued under the fixed designation B964; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of a flow rate, by use of the Carney funnel, of metal powders and powder mixtures
that do not readily flow through the Hall funnel of Test Method B213.
1.2 This is a non-destructive quantitative test performed in the laboratory.
1.3 With the exception of the values for density and the mass used to determine density, for which the use of gram per cubic
centimetre (g/cm ) and gram (g) units is the longstanding industry practice, the values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as
standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only, and are
not considered standard.
1.4 This 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 healthsafety, health, and environmental practices and determine
the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
B213 Test Methods for Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel
B215 Practices for Sampling Metal Powders
B243 Terminology of Powder Metallurgy
B855 Test Method for Volumetric Flow Rate of Metal Powders Using the Arnold Meter and Hall Flowmeter Funnel
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of powder metallurgy (PM) terms can be found in Terminology B243.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 Carney flow rate (FR ), n—the time required for a metal powder sample of specified mass to flow through the orifice in a
C
Carney funnel according to a specified procedure.
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee B09 on Metal Powders and Metal Powder Products and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
B09.02 on Base Metal Powders.
Current edition approved June 1, 2016Feb. 1, 2023. Published June 2016February 2023. Originally approved in 2009. Last previous edition approved in 20092016 as
B964B964 – 16.-09. DOI: 10.1520/B0964-16.10.1520/B0964-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
B964 − 23
3.3 3 Additional descriptive information is available in the Related Materials section of Vol 02.05 of the Annual Book of ASTM
Standards.
4. Summary of Test Methods
4.1 A weighed mass of metal powder is timed as it flows through the orifice of a Carney funnel.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The rate and uniformity of die cavity filling are related to flow properties, which thus influence production rates and uniformity
of compacted parts.
5.2 The ability of a powder to flow is a function of interparticle friction. As interparticle friction increases, flow is slowed. Some
powders, often fine powders and lubricated powder mixtures, may not flow through the Hall funnel of Test Method B213.
Nevertheless, if a larger orifice is provided, such as in the Carney funnel, a meaningful flow rate may be determined, providing
specific information for certain applications.
5.3 Test Method B213.,, using the Hall funnel, is the preferred method for determining the flowability of metal powders. The
Carney funnel of these test methods should only be used when a powder will not flow through the Hall funnel. These test methods
may also be used for comparison of several powders when some flow through the Hall funnel and some do not.
5.4 Humidity and moisture content influence flow rate. Wet or moist powders may not flow through either the Hall or the Carney
funnel.
5.5 These test methods are based on flow of a specific mass of powder. If flow of a specific volume of powder is preferred, Test
Method B855 may be used for powders that flow readily through the Hall funnel.
5.6 These test methods may be part of the purchase agreement between powder suppliers and powder metallurgy (PM) part
producers, or it can be an internal quality control test by either the supplier or the end user.
FIG. 1 Carney Funnel and Stand
B964 − 23
6. Apparatus
6.1 Carney Powder Flowmeter Funnel —A calibrated flowmeter funnel (Fig. 1) having an orifice of 0.200 6 0.005 in. (5.08 6
0.13 mm) 0.200 in. (5.08 mm) in diameter.
6.1.1 The funnel shall be made of a non-magnetic, corrosion-resistant metallic material having sufficient thickness and hardness
to withstand distortion and excessive wear.
6.1.2 The dimensions shown for the flowmeter funnel (Fig. 1), including the orifice, are not to be considered controlling factors.
Calibration with the stainless steel reference powder (6.2), as specified in Section 9, determines the working flow rate of the funnel.
6.2 316L Stainless Steel Reference Powder —A certified stainless steel powder used to calibrate the flowmeter funnel.
6.3 Stand —A stand (Fig. 1) to support the powder flowmeter funnel.
6.4 Base—A level, vibration-free base to support the powder flowmeter stand.
6.5 Timing Device—A stopwatch or other suitable timing device capable of measuring to the nearest 0.1 s.
6.6 Balance—Having a capacity of at least 250 g and a sensitivity of 0.01 g.
6.7 Weighing Dish—An ordinary laboratory weighing dish (pan), capable of containing the full mass of tested powder, and
preferably made of metal to avoid powder sticking to the dish via electrostatic charges.
7. Sampling
7.1 A test sample of powder sufficient to run the desired number of flow tests shall be obtained in accordance with Practices B215.
7.2 Individual test portions, each of approximately the required mass, shall be obtained from the test sample in accordance with
Practices B215.
8. Preparation of Apparatus
8.1 Clean the funnel with a clean, dry paper towel.
8.2 Clean the funnel orifice with a clean dry pipe cleaner.
9. Calibration of Apparatus
9.1 Plans are under way for developing a reference material that can be used to calibrate the Carney powder flowmeter funnel,
similar to the material used for calibration of the Hall powder flowmeter funnel in Test Method B213.
9.1 In the absence of such a reference material, it is recommended that the dimensions of the Carney A new powder flowmeter
funnel be checked periodically, at least every six months. If the dimensions are nois supplied as calibrated using a certified 316L
stainless steel reference powder (see 6.2longer within the specified tolerances, replace the flowmeter funnel.) as follows (an older
flowmeter funnel shall be calibrated in the same manner):
9.1.1 Heat an open glass jar that contains the calibration powder in a drying oven at a temperature of 215 °F to 225 °F (102 °C
to 107 °C) for 1 h.
The sole source of supply of the flowmeter funnel funnel, stainless steel reference powder, and stand known to the committee at this time is ACuPowder International,
LLC, 901 Lehigh Aven
...