Powder Characterization For Selecting Material Of Construction

By Tim Freeman, Freeman Technology

For powder processors material of construction or surface finish choice is an important element of design, critical to achieving the fundamental compatibility between powders and process that underpins successful long term performance. A range of metals and polymers is available to cope with the specific demands of the pharmaceutical industry but choosing between them requires a considered cost benefit analysis. Unfortunately, while cost is relatively easy to establish, benefit may be much harder to quantify. Here, recently developed powder testing technology can help by making it easier to precisely and accurately measure wall friction angle (WFA), the parameter used to quantify friction between a surface and powder.