Significance and Use The data from the loose bulk density test
can be used to estimate the size of bags, totes, small bins or
hoppers for the storage of a fixed mass of powder in its loose
condition. It can also be used to estimate the mass of powder
that will fit in small size containers such as drums. It cannot
be used to estimate powder quantities of large vessels such as
silos. Values of loose bulk density obtained using this test
method should be used with caution, since they can vary
considerably depending on the inital state of dispersion of the
test specimen, height-to-diameter ratio of specimen in graduated
cylinder, dryness of powder, and other factors. The data from
the tapped bulk density test can be used to estimate the needed
volume of small containers holding a fixed mass of powder that
has been compacted. An example would be a packing line where
vibration is used to tamp powders into a small container for
effective packing purposes. Bulk density values can vary
significantly if the particle si