AsureQuality has introduced Angle of Repose testing to provide customers with another way to assess and compare the flow behaviour of dairy powders.
Flowability describes the ability of a powder to move, discharge and transfer under defined conditions. Understanding flowability is particularly important where powders are stored, transported, blended, conveyed, dosed and packaged.
This test can provide useful information when:
- Comparing powder formulations – understand differences in powder flow behaviour.
- Investigating changes in powder behaviour – including the effects of processing or storage conditions.
- Establishing powder-handling requirements – gain useful information to support appropriate powder handling.
Good powder flowability facilitates the consistent movement of materials through hoppers, silos, feeders, screw conveyors, pneumatic conveying systems, blending equipment, dosing systems and packaging machinery.
How does Angle of Repose testing work?
A defined quantity of powder is allowed to discharge under controlled conditions onto a horizontal surface, where it forms a conical pile. The angle between the slope of the powder pile and the horizontal surface is then measured.
In general, a lower angle of repose indicates better powder flowability, while a higher angle indicates poorer or more cohesive flow behaviour. Angle of Repose is a useful indicator of powder handling and processing characteristics, although it should not be considered a complete characterisation of powder flowability on its own.
For full information about the new test method please click here.
Next steps
Angle of Repose testing is available now through our Auckland laboratory.
If you would like to discuss whether this testing capability is suitable for your dairy powder products, our team is ready to support you.