Standard Test Methods for Determining Loose and Tapped Bulk Densities of Powders using a Graduated Cylinder

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The data from the loose bulk density test can be used to estimate the size of bags, totes, small bins or hoppers for the storage of a fixed mass of powder in its loose condition. It can also be used to estimate the mass of powder that will fit in small size containers such as drums. It cannot be used to estimate powder quantities of large vessels such as silos.  
5.2 Values of loose bulk density obtained using this test method should be used with caution, since they can vary considerably depending on the inital state of dispersion of the test specimen, height-to-diameter ratio of specimen in graduated cylinder, dryness of powder, and other factors.  
5.3 The data from the tapped bulk density test can be used to estimate the needed volume of small containers holding a fixed mass of powder that has been compacted. An example would be a packing line where vibration is used to tamp powders into a small container for effective packing purposes.  
5.4 Bulk density values can vary significantly if the particle size of the actual material to be handled is different than tested. A bulk solid consisting of large and small particles often has higher bulk densities than the fine particles by themselves. For powders, lower densities are possible if the fine particles are fluidized or aerated.  
5.5 The results of this test method are most applicable to containers with volumes up to about one cubic meter. Another method (such as D6683) should be used when considering larger silos.
Note 1: The quality of the results produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 ...
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the apparatus and procedures for determining the bulk densities of free flowing and moderately cohesive powders and granular materials up to 3.5 mm in size in their loose (Method A) and tapped (Method B) states.  
1.2 This test method should be performed in a laboratory under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity.  
1.3 This test method is similar to those of Test Methods B212, B329, B417, D29, and D2854.  
1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.  
1.4.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variations, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design.  
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.6 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.  
1.7 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 Organiz...

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
31-May-2018
Technical Committee
D18 - Soil and Rock

Relations

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01-Feb-2024
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Overview

ASTM D7481-18, Standard Test Methods for Determining Loose and Tapped Bulk Densities of Powders using a Graduated Cylinder, establishes standardized procedures for measuring the loose and tapped bulk densities of free-flowing and moderately cohesive powders and granular materials (up to 3.5 mm in size). Developed by ASTM International, this method utilizes a graduated cylinder either in its natural (loose) state or after mechanical tapping to obtain data vital for storage, packaging, and material handling of powders across varied industries.

The test must be performed under laboratory-controlled temperature and humidity. It is especially applicable for bulk density measurement in container sizes up to about one cubic meter. For larger storage solutions, such as silos, alternative methods (e.g., ASTM D6683) are recommended.

Key Topics

  • Loose Bulk Density (Method A):

    • Measures the bulk density of powder as poured into a graduated cylinder, without compaction.
    • Useful for estimating container and packaging sizes for un-compacted powders.
  • Tapped Bulk Density (Method B):

    • Measures the bulk density after mechanically tapping the container until the material settles, simulating compaction.
    • Relevant for applications involving vibration or packing processes where powders are tamped into containers.
  • Factors Affecting Measurements:

    • State of powder dispersion and moisture content
    • Height-to-diameter ratio of powder in the cylinder
    • Particle size distribution and powder dryness
    • Tapping method and equipment used
  • Data Reporting:

    • Must include specimen mass, container volume, powder volume (loose and tapped), significant digits as per ASTM D6026, and test conditions.

Applications

ASTM D7481-18 finds critical use in industries where precise estimation of powder or granular material density is essential for:

  • Packaging Design: Determining the size of bags, drums, totes, small bins, or hoppers needed to store a specific mass of powder in either loose or compacted form.
  • Material Handling: Planning storage and transport logistics by calculating fill weights and container volumes for powders.
  • Quality Control and R&D: Comparing batch-to-batch variability or evaluating new powder products under standard conditions.
  • Process Engineering: Supporting packing line operations that involve compaction or vibration to maximize material efficiency in small containers.
  • Product Specification and Compliance: Providing standardized test data for regulatory documentation and customer specifications.

Note: Results from ASTM D7481-18 should be applied with caution, as measured bulk density values may vary based on factors like powder moisture, dispersion state, particle size, and testing conditions. The method's primary application is for containers up to one cubic meter, not for large silos or bulk storage.

Related Standards

For complementary methods and guidance, users of ASTM D7481-18 may consult:

  • ASTM D6683: Bulk density measurement of powders and bulk solids as a function of compressive stress (suitable for larger vessels).
  • ASTM B212, B329, B417, D29, D2854: Alternative methods for apparent or tap densities of various powder types.
  • ASTM D653: Terminology relating to soil, rock, and contained fluids.
  • ASTM D3740: Minimum requirements for agencies conducting geotechnical tests.
  • ASTM D6026: Guidance on significant digits and rounding in geotechnical data.

Using these standards in tandem ensures compliance, repeatability, and reliability in powder bulk density measurements that are critical for successful powder handling, storage, and processing operations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM D7481-18 is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Methods for Determining Loose and Tapped Bulk Densities of Powders using a Graduated Cylinder". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 The data from the loose bulk density test can be used to estimate the size of bags, totes, small bins or hoppers for the storage of a fixed mass of powder in its loose condition. It can also be used to estimate the mass of powder that will fit in small size containers such as drums. It cannot be used to estimate powder quantities of large vessels such as silos. 5.2 Values of loose bulk density obtained using this test method should be used with caution, since they can vary considerably depending on the inital state of dispersion of the test specimen, height-to-diameter ratio of specimen in graduated cylinder, dryness of powder, and other factors. 5.3 The data from the tapped bulk density test can be used to estimate the needed volume of small containers holding a fixed mass of powder that has been compacted. An example would be a packing line where vibration is used to tamp powders into a small container for effective packing purposes. 5.4 Bulk density values can vary significantly if the particle size of the actual material to be handled is different than tested. A bulk solid consisting of large and small particles often has higher bulk densities than the fine particles by themselves. For powders, lower densities are possible if the fine particles are fluidized or aerated. 5.5 The results of this test method are most applicable to containers with volumes up to about one cubic meter. Another method (such as D6683) should be used when considering larger silos. Note 1: The quality of the results produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 ... SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the apparatus and procedures for determining the bulk densities of free flowing and moderately cohesive powders and granular materials up to 3.5 mm in size in their loose (Method A) and tapped (Method B) states. 1.2 This test method should be performed in a laboratory under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity. 1.3 This test method is similar to those of Test Methods B212, B329, B417, D29, and D2854. 1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026. 1.4.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variations, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design. 1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.6 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. 1.7 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 Organiz...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 The data from the loose bulk density test can be used to estimate the size of bags, totes, small bins or hoppers for the storage of a fixed mass of powder in its loose condition. It can also be used to estimate the mass of powder that will fit in small size containers such as drums. It cannot be used to estimate powder quantities of large vessels such as silos. 5.2 Values of loose bulk density obtained using this test method should be used with caution, since they can vary considerably depending on the inital state of dispersion of the test specimen, height-to-diameter ratio of specimen in graduated cylinder, dryness of powder, and other factors. 5.3 The data from the tapped bulk density test can be used to estimate the needed volume of small containers holding a fixed mass of powder that has been compacted. An example would be a packing line where vibration is used to tamp powders into a small container for effective packing purposes. 5.4 Bulk density values can vary significantly if the particle size of the actual material to be handled is different than tested. A bulk solid consisting of large and small particles often has higher bulk densities than the fine particles by themselves. For powders, lower densities are possible if the fine particles are fluidized or aerated. 5.5 The results of this test method are most applicable to containers with volumes up to about one cubic meter. Another method (such as D6683) should be used when considering larger silos. Note 1: The quality of the results produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 ... SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers the apparatus and procedures for determining the bulk densities of free flowing and moderately cohesive powders and granular materials up to 3.5 mm in size in their loose (Method A) and tapped (Method B) states. 1.2 This test method should be performed in a laboratory under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity. 1.3 This test method is similar to those of Test Methods B212, B329, B417, D29, and D2854. 1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026. 1.4.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variations, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design. 1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. 1.6 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. 1.7 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 Organiz...

ASTM D7481-18 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 17.060 - Measurement of volume, mass, density, viscosity. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM D7481-18 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D4753-24, ASTM D3740-23, ASTM C29/C29M-23, ASTM B329-20, ASTM D3740-19, ASTM D6683-19, ASTM D2216-19, ASTM B329-18, ASTM D4164-13(2018), ASTM C29/C29M-17, ASTM C29/C29M-16, ASTM D4753-15, ASTM B329-14, ASTM D653-14, ASTM D2854-09(2014). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM D7481-18 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.

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: D7481 − 18
Standard Test Methods for
Determining Loose and Tapped Bulk Densities of Powders
using a Graduated Cylinder
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7481; 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* Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.1 This test method covers the apparatus and procedures
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
for determining the bulk densities of free flowing and moder-
ately cohesive powders and granular materials up to 3.5 mm in
2. Referenced Documents
size in their loose (Method A) and tapped (Method B) states.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.2 This test method should be performed in a laboratory
B212 Test Method for Apparent Density of Free-Flowing
under controlled conditions of temperature and humidity.
Metal Powders Using the Hall Flowmeter Funnel
B329 Test Method for Apparent Density of Metal Powders
1.3 This test method is similar to those of Test Methods
and Compounds Using the Scott Volumeter
B212, B329, B417, D29, and D2854.
B417 Test Method for Apparent Density of Non-Free-
1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
Flowing Metal Powders Using the Carney Funnel
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
B527 Test Method for Tap Density of Metal Powders and
Practice D6026.
Compounds
1.4.1 Theproceduresusedtospecifyhowdataarecollected/
C29/C29M Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”)
recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the
and Voids in Aggregate
industry standard. In addition they are representative of the
D29 Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Lac Resins
significant digits that generally should be retained. The proce-
(Withdrawn 2005)
dures used do not consider material variations, purpose for
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
Fluids
ations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
commensuratewiththeseconsiderations.Itisbeyondthescope
D2854 Test Method for Apparent Density of Activated
of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis
Carbon
methods for engineering design.
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
standard.
D4164 Test Method for Mechanically Tapped Packing Den-
sity of Formed Catalyst and Catalyst Carriers
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Bal-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
ances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Construction Materials Testing
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Data
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
D6683 Test Method for Measuring Bulk Density Values of
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Powders and Other Bulk Solids as Function of Compres-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
sive Stress
1 2
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD18onSoiland For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.24 on Characterization contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
and Handling of Powders and Bulk Solids. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved June 1, 2018. Published July 2018. Last previous the ASTM website.
edition approved in 2009 as D7481 - 09, which was withdrawn January 2018 and The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
reinstated in June 2018. DOI: 10.1520/D7481-18. www.astm.org.
*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
D7481 − 18
fying national authority that inspects agencies that perform this standard.
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
Sieves
6. Apparatus
3. Terminology
6.1 Balance having a minimum capacity of 400 g and
meeting the requirements of Guide D4753 for a balance of 0.1
3.1 Definitions:
g readability.
3.1.1 For common definitions of technical terms in this
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
6.2 250 mL or 100 mL standard glass graduated cylinder.
See 7.3.
4. Summary of Test Method
6.3 Two screens: 1.7 mm (No. 12 U.S. sieve), 4.00 mm (No.
4.1 Loose bulk density (Method A) is determined by mea-
5 U.S. sieve). Each screen should be full height and 200 mm (8
suring the volume of a known mass of powder that has been
in.) diameter (see Specification E11).
passed through a screen or funnel into a graduated cylinder.
6.4 Suitablemechanicaltappeddensitytesterthatprovidesa
4.2 Tapped bulk density (Method B) is achieved by me-
fixed drop of 14 6 2 mm at a nominal rate of 300 drops per
chanically tapping a measuring cylinder containing a powder.
minute or a fixed drop of 3 mm 6 0.2 mm at a nominal rate of
Afterobservingtheinitialvolume,thecylinderismechanically
250 drops per minute. A typical tester is shown in Fig. 1.
tapped, and volume readings are taken until little further
volume change is observed.
7. Preparation of Apparatus
7.1 Check that the balance is set on a sturdy table or bench,
5. Significance and Use
leveled and zeroed.
5.1 The data from the loose bulk density test can be used to
7.2 Make sure that the graduated cylinder is clean of any
estimate the size of bags, totes, small bins or hoppers for the
and all foreign material (including water or other liquids) prior
storage of a fixed mass of powder in its loose condition. It can
to starting each test.
also be used to estimate the mass of powder that will fit in
small size containers such as drums. It cannot be used to
7.3 Depending on the untapped apparent volume of the test
estimate powder quantities of large vessels such as silos.
specimen and its particle size gradation, choose either a 250
mLor100mLstandardglassgraduatedcylinderusingthetable
5.2 Values of loose bulk density obtained using this test
below.
method should be used with caution, since they can vary
considerably depending on the inital state of dispersion of the Graduated Untapped apparent volume Upper limit on
cylinder of test specimen, mL particle size, mm
test specimen, height-to-diameter ratio of specimen in gradu-
size, mL
ated cylinder, dryness of powder, and other factors.
Min. Max. d Absolute
5.3 The data from the tapped bulk density test can be used
max.
to estimate the needed volume of small containers holding a
100 50 100 1.3 2.5
250 150 250 1.7 3.5
fixed mass of powder that has been compacted. An example
would be a packing line where vibration is used to tamp
8. Procedure
powders into a small container for effective packing purposes.
8.1 Loose Bulk Density (Method A):
5.4 Bulk density values can vary significantly if the particle
8.1.1 Determine and record the mass of the graduated
size of the actual material to be handled is different than tested.
cylinder to the nearest 0.1 g.
A bulk solid consisting of large and small particles often has
8.1.2 Choose an appropriate dispersion method to ensure
higher bulk densities than the fine particles by themselves. For
that the material hasn’t agglomerated from transit. If this test is
powders, lower densities are possible if the fine particles are
being conducted on a fine powder with particles much smaller
fluidized or aerated.
than 1 mm, pass a sufficient quantity though a 1.00 mm (18
5.5 The results of this test method are most applicable to
mesh) screen to brea
...

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