Overview
EN ISO 14232-1:2017 (CEN adoption of ISO 14232-1:2017) defines methods for the characterization of powders used in thermal spraying and the technical supply conditions for those powders. It sets out which physical and chemical powder properties should be measured, how to document particle size ranges and distributions, and what information should accompany powder deliveries to ensure reproducible coating performance.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Applies to powders used in thermal spray processes based on their physical and chemical properties.
- Sampling and sample splitting: Requires representative sampling from a homogeneous bulk (referenced ISO 3954).
- Chemical composition: Permits validated test methods such as ICP‑OES, XRF, EDX, atomic absorption and wet chemical analysis to define composition.
- Particle size range and particle size distribution (PSD): PSD is critical to melt behaviour and feedability. Measurement methods include sieve analysis, air‑jet sieving and optical techniques (laser scattering). The standard requires that the measurement method be stated with results and gives industry limits for oversize/undersize particles (examples and tables, e.g., designation “63/38 µm” and related tolerances).
- Physical properties: Addresses particle shape and morphology, apparent density (see ISO 3923‑2 Scott volumeter), flowability (see ISO 4490 Hall flowmeter), and microstructure / phase composition (metallography, phase analysis).
- Classification, identification and designation: Specifies how powders should be named and classified by size, composition and form.
- Conditions of supply and certificates: Defines required documentation and certificates to accompany powders (e.g., composition, PSD, sampling and test methods).
Practical applications and users
This standard is practical for:
- Thermal spray powder manufacturers - to define product specifications and quality control.
- Thermal spray service providers and coatings engineers - to select powders that give consistent deposition and coating properties.
- Quality assurance and purchasing teams - to verify incoming powder conformity and supplier documentation.
- R&D and process engineers - to correlate powder properties with process parameters and coating results.
Using EN ISO 14232-1 helps reduce variability in coating performance by ensuring powders are characterized and supplied consistently, improving reproducibility in industrial thermal spray applications.
Related standards
Keywords: EN ISO 14232-1:2017, thermal spraying powders, powder characterization, particle size distribution (PSD), powder supply conditions, powder classification, flowability, apparent density.