LimsPulse
Particle & solid-state

Tap Density Tester

Taps a graduated cylinder of powder a set number of times from a fixed height so the bed packs down. The starting and final volumes give bulk density, tapped density, Carr's index and Hausner ratio.

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Nutraceutical
  • Chemicals
  • Food & beverage
  • Powder metallurgy
Illustration of Tap Density Tester
Follow your site SOP
This is a typical operating sequence for learning. Your instrument model and approved SOP take precedence.
STAGE 1

Preparation

  1. 1Confirm the tester is within its calibration due date (drop height and tap rate).
  2. 2Pass the sample through the stated sieve to break up loose lumps.
  3. 3Weigh the stated amount (commonly about 100 g for a 250 mL cylinder) to 0.1% accuracy.
  • Do not tap or knock the cylinder while filling; that already compacts the powder.
STAGE 2

Bulk volume

  1. 1Tilt the cylinder and pour the powder in gently.
  2. 2Level the surface carefully without compacting it.
  3. 3Read the unsettled volume V0 to the nearest graduation.
STAGE 3

Tapping

  1. 1Fix the cylinder in the holder.
  2. 2Run the tap counts stated in the method (for example 10, 500 and 1250 taps) and read the volume after each.
  3. 3If the difference between successive readings is larger than the method limit, continue tapping in further increments until it is within the limit.
  4. 4Record the final tapped volume Vf.
  • Keep fingers clear of the moving holder during tapping.
STAGE 4

After use

  1. 1Empty and clean the cylinder
  2. 2Clean powder from the base and holder
  3. 3Complete the usage log
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every Tap density tester in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how