ASTM D6128 Shear Testing of Bulk Solids Using the Jenike Shear Cell
The apparatus and techniques for measuring the cohesive strength of bulk solids in continuous flow and after storage at rest are included in this ASTM D6128 approach. Internal friction, bulk density, and wall friction data on various wall surfaces are also presented. The values are considered a standard when expressed in SI units.
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- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D6128 specifies a procedure for evaluating the resistance of bulk solids to shearing and their flow properties using the Jenike Shear Cell. This standard is concerned with the cohesive properties of powders and granules under different consolidation pressures.
This test procedure helps in the prediction and prevention of common flow problems such as arching, ratholing, and flow rate variations in bins and hoppers. By identifying the flow properties of the material, designers can design equipment to provide a consistent flow of bulk material.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D6128 applies to bulk solids, granular materials, powders, and particulate materials, particularly those containing a large fraction of particles smaller than 6 mm. The standard describes a method for determining the shear strength and cohesive strength of bulk solids under consolidation. It also evaluates material flow properties during continuous flow conditions and after storage at rest, providing important data for handling, storage, and processing system design.
Applications
- Design of bins and hoppers
- Silo and storage vessel engineering
- Prevention of arching and ratholing
- Powder handling system design
- Chemical and mineral bulk materials
- Cement and construction materials
Benefits
- Prevents flow obstructions in storage systems
- Improves hopper and bin design accuracy
- Determines cohesive strength of materials
- Evaluates flow behavior after storage
- Reduces material handling downtime
- Enhances process reliability
- Supports safe and efficient bulk material storage
- Provides standardized and repeatable testing
Test Process
Sample Preparation & Consolidation
Place and level the bulk solid in the Jenike shear cell, then consolidate under a specified normal stress to simulate storage.
1Shear Testing
Apply shear force while maintaining controlled normal stress.
2Data Recording
Record shear force vs. displacement data and determine bulk density after each test.
3Data Analysis
Identify valid shear points and analyze shear data for each pre-shear normal stress level.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Applicable Materials | Bulk solids with majority particle size < 6 mm |
| Measured Properties | Shear strength, cohesive strength, bulk density |
| Stress Conditions | Pre-shear and shear under defined normal stresses |
| Output Data | Shear stress vs normal stress relationship (flow function) |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Jenike Shear Cell apparatus
- Normal load application system
- Shear force measurement system
- Displacement measurement device
- Bulk density measurement tools
- Data acquisition system
- Analysis software for flow function determination
Results and Deliverables
- Shear stress versus normal stress plots
- Flow function curves
- Cohesive strength values
- Bulk density measurements
- Flow classification of material
- Hopper design parameters
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D6128 is a standard test method for measuring flow properties of bulk solids using the Jenike shear cell to determine shear strength and flow behavior.
The test involves applying controlled vertical (normal) stress to the sample in a split ring, followed by a horizontal shear force. This is representative of the compressive forces that a material is subjected to at different depths in a storage vessel.
Small increments of moisture can lead to substantial increases in cohesion and wall friction. Testing at worst-case levels of moisture and particle size distribution can ensure that environmental humidity or feedstock variations do not lead to catastrophic flow failures.
It evaluates flowability characteristics to support hopper design, storage system, and bulk material handling equipment.
Composite structures can experience accidental impacts during service; this test helps assess damage tolerance and structural reliability after impact events.
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