Thomas J. Budny

Stick—slip friction as a method of powder flow characterization

Abstract We have made use of a previously ignored quantity, stick—slip friction, in determining powder flow properties. Stick-slip friction can easily be measured with a Table Model Instron or similar device. The stick—slip friction of most powders can be measured with greater accuracy and precision than any type of angle of repose measurements. Stick—slip friction values for a set of plastic powders were related to the particle size, flow properties and tensile strength. While stick—slip friction may not be universally relatable to flow behavior, it does hold promise for more limited sample tests.