Accurate Bulk Density Testing for Powders, Granules, Pellets and Particulate Materials
The Ray-Ran Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus provides a simple, reliable and accurate method for measuring the apparent bulk density of powders, granules, pellets, flakes, fibres and other divided solid materials.
Designed by Ray-Ran, a specialist in plastics and materials testing equipment, the system supports a range of international test methods including ASTM D1895 Methods A, B and C, and ISO R60. Each model is configured to meet the specific requirements of the selected standard, ensuring accurate and repeatable density measurements.
Reliable Bulk Density Measurement
Apparent bulk density is the ratio of a material’s mass to the total volume it occupies, including both particle volume and the spaces between particles.
Because bulk density is influenced by factors such as particle shape, size, handling and compaction, controlled test methods are essential for obtaining meaningful and repeatable results.
The Ray-Ran Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus helps manufacturers evaluate material consistency, optimise handling processes and maintain quality control across a wide range of applications.
Testing Methods and Applications
The Ray-Ran range includes dedicated models for different test procedures:
ASTM D1895 Method A – Fine Granules and Free-Flowing Materials
Designed for fine granules and materials that easily pass through a small funnel. The sample flows into a 100 cm³ cylindrical cup under controlled conditions to determine apparent bulk density.
ASTM D1895 Method B – Pellets and Coarser Materials
Suitable for larger particles, pellets and materials that do not pass through the Method A funnel. The system uses a larger funnel and a 400 cm³ receiving cup.
ASTM D1895 Method C – Flakes, Fibres and Compressible Materials
Designed for lightweight or compressible materials such as flakes, fibres and strands. The method uses a 1000 cm³ measuring cylinder with a weighted plunger to apply controlled light compaction.
ISO R60 – Granules and Moulding Materials
Equivalent in results to ASTM D1895 Method A, the ISO R60 system features a larger funnel opening and is suitable for free-flowing granules and moulding materials tested into a 100 cm³ receiving cup.
Simple, Robust Laboratory Design
The Ray-Ran Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus is designed for ease of use, durability and repeatable performance.
Its straightforward operation requires minimal training, making it suitable for quality control laboratories, research facilities, production environments and educational institutions.
Features & Benefits
- Accurate apparent bulk density measurement
- Suitable for powders, granules, pellets, flakes and fibres
- Complies with ASTM D1895 Methods A, B and C
- Complies with ISO R60 requirements
- Dedicated models for each international test method
- Controlled testing conditions for improved repeatability
- Available with 100 cm³, 400 cm³ and 1000 cm³ measuring volumes
- Weighted plunger system available for Method C compaction testing
- Simple and easy-to-use operation
- Robust construction for long service life
- Minimal maintenance requirements
- Ideal for plastics, polymers, coatings, minerals and particulate materials
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | RR/BDA |
| Applications | Density Testing, Material Characterisation |
| Materials | Plastics, Polymers, Composites, Elastomers, Foam, Minerals, Paints & Coatings, Non-wovens, Timber, Wood |
| Standards | ASTM D1895 Methods A, B & C, ISO R60 |
| Method A Weight | 4 kg |
| Method B Weight | 9 kg |
| Method C Dimensions | 100 × 100 × 300 mm (W × D × H) |
| Method A Dimensions | 180 × 230 × 250 mm (W × D × H) |
| Method B Dimensions | 240 × 330 × 520 mm (W × D × H) |
| ISO R60 Dimensions | 180 × 230 × 250 mm (W × D × H) |
Applications
The Ray-Ran Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus is suitable for testing:
- Plastic pellets and granules
- Polymer powders
- Powder coatings
- Fibres and flakes
- Composite materials
- Rubber and elastomer materials
- Minerals and particulate solids
- Moulding compounds
- Research and development materials
Standards Compliance
The Ray-Ran Apparent Bulk Density Apparatus supports:
- ASTM D1895 – Standard Test Methods for Apparent Density, Bulk Factor, and Pour Density of Plastic Materials
- ISO R60 – Determination of apparent density of moulding materials

