Extended Shear Cell Capabilities for FT4 Data Analysis Software

The latest additions to the data analysis suite for Freeman Technology's FT4 Powder Rheometer further extend the range of data analysis procedures available for the system. The new capabilities include Mohr circle construction, a function that allows users to get maximum information from yield loci profiles obtained from shear cell measurements.

The FT4 is a universal powder rheometer used to conduct a wide range of powder flowability tests. These provide a means to characterise the flow properties of powders and relate them to performance in process. New options allow fast and fully automated shear testing in addition to the FT4's dynamic measurements of powder flowability. Thanks to the sensitivity of the system, shear strength measurements can be made over a range of normal stress conditions varying from about 100 Pa to 90 kPa for pre-consolidation stresses varying from zero upwards.

Comprehensive data analysis, which can be tailored to individual needs, is a feature of the FT4 software. Automated Mohr circle analysis of data from shear testing normally derives unconfined yield strength, major principal stress, internal angle of friction, cohesion value and flow function (ffc). All data can be represented in graphical or report formats.