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Granule Hardness Test
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Presto Stantest Granule Hardness Test
Solution
- Software-controlled compression test stand
- Custom succulometer-based fixture for repeated compressive loading
Benefits
- Simple and operator-friendly testing procedure
- Consistent and repeatable method applied multiple times per batch
- Enables comparative analysis to support process optimization
The Presto Stantest granule hardness testing solution has helped manufacturers in assessing the physical strength and durability of the potassium sorbate granules from various vendors. Operators can make simple and repeatable hardness testing on bulk granular materials with very good accuracy and consistency with a software-controlled compression testing system equipped with the factory-designed succulometer fixture. The system determines the force and displacement applied in compression and provides data that can be displayed graphically for comparing the quality of the material from batch to batch and supplier to supplier. This testing process helps them better control the blending process and also the stability of storage and shelf life of the products and also minimizes the risks of degradation during the handling of granules. The system's automatic data processing and Excel export also streamlines the result analysis and reporting process. Presto Stantest featured a practical and very accurate testing arrangement providing a comparison of materials to improve the process and at the same time give cost-effective production quality control.
Requirement
In the granular industries, the chemical performance and the physical integrity are important issues to be maintained. It is especially essential with additives, which are destined to be used in agricultural and food-related usage, where the quality of the product directly depends on their storage stability and processing durability.
One of the forage additive manufacturers needed a sure way of testing the hardness of potassium sorbate granules supplied by various suppliers. The objective was twofold: to ensure that the material could withstand blending and storage without degradation and to support extended shelf life of the final product. Variations in granule strength were found to impact handling characteristics, making it necessary to establish a standardized testing approach for incoming materials.
The requirement called for a method capable of testing bulk particulate samples, delivering repeatable results, and enabling clear comparison across different batches and suppliers.
Solution
The need was to have a test method that could test bulk samples of particulate material, provide a repeatable test, and be able to compare the test results across batches and suppliers. A modified succulometer fixture—comprising a robust cylindrical chamber and a precision-matched plunger—was designed specifically to accommodate granular samples.
During testing, a fixed mass of granules (typically 20 g) is placed within the chamber and subjected to compressive force until a predefined maximum load is reached. In order to meet this requirement, a dedicated compression testing system was designed, based on the computer-controlled universal testing system with a high-capacity load cell.
The force-displacement curve that is produced at compression is analyzed to determine material hardness. The region below the curve is a good representation of the amount of energy needed to deform the sample, giving a useful insight into the strength of the granules.
The computerized system guarantees accuracy in applying force, real-time data display, and automatic processing of results. With graphical outputs, one is able to interpret the results at once, whereas documentation and further analysis are supported by seamless export into Microsoft™ Excel.
Presto Stantest Testing Approach
Presto Stantest is a provider of advanced mechanical testing processes designed to be used in the evaluation of particulate and bulk materials. They are also accurate, repeatable, and easy to operate; therefore, they are suitable in the quality control laboratory and in research laboratories.
The integration of high-resolution load cells with intuitive software enables controlled testing cycles and detailed performance analysis. Custom fixtures, such as the succulometer assembly, ensure uniform load distribution and reproducible test conditions across multiple samples.
The method enables the manufacturers to compare the quality of the materials, determine the irregularities in the supply, and take the right decision to enhance the performance and efficiency of the product.
Test Equipment
- UTM controlled by computer to 2500 N
- Precision load cell (2500N capacity)
- Custom-designed succulometer fixture
Applicable Test Standard
- ASTM D7084-04 – Standard Test Determination of Bulk Crush Strength of Catalysts and Catalyst Carriers
Test standards
