Ray-Ran Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus

Developed by Ray-Ran, our specialist plastics testing brand, the Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus provides a simple, reliable way to measure the apparent bulk density of particulate materials.

The range covers powders, granules, pellets, flakes, and fibres, with instruments tailored to the different international test methods.

Why is bulk density measured?

Apparent bulk density is defined as the mass of a sample of particles divided by the total volume they occupy, including both the particle volume and the void spaces between them.

Bulk density is not an intrinsic property — it changes depending on how the material is handled or compacted. For this reason, test standards specify conditions such as “freely settled” or “poured” density or possibly density after light compaction.

In other contexts, a “tapped” density may also be reported, where the container is vibrated so that the particles settle more tightly.

Bulk density testing to international standards

Our Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus is designed for compliance with ASTM D1895 (Methods A, B, C) and ISO R60. Each model is specific to one test method:

• ASTM D1895 Method A: For fine granules that readily flow through a small funnel. Material is poured into a funnel with shut-off and released into a 100 cm³ cylindrical cup.

• ASTM D1895 Method B: For coarser materials such as pellets or dice that will not pass through the Method A funnel. A larger funnel with shut-off is used, with a 400 cm³ receiving cup.

• ASTM D1895 Method C: For bulkier, compressible materials such as flakes, strands, or fibres. The material is placed in a 1000 cm³ measuring cylinder, and a second cylinder is used as a weighted plunger to apply a light compressive force with variable weight through the use of lead shot.

• ISO R60: Equivalent in results to ASTM D1895 Method A, the ISO R60 funnel has a larger 3.3cm diameter opening and is suitable for testing granules and molding materials that readily flow through a funnel into a 100 cm³ receiving cup.

An unbeatable catalogue of material testing solutions

We make a wide range of devices and accessories to test and measure powders, granules, and other divided solids. If you need fast and reliable measurements of uncured powder coatings to international standards, then our TQC Sheen PosiTest PC Powder Checker is a solid choice! If you’re interested in testing the density of fluids, or the specific gravity of solid materials, then our Ray-Ran Explorer Pro Analytical Density Balance is the solution you need.