Overview
ISO 2031:2015 is an international standard that specifies a precise method for determining the apparent bulk density of granulated cork. As defined in ISO 633, this standard focuses on measuring the mass per unit volume of granulated cork under controlled conditions. This third edition, published by ISO, provides updated procedures to ensure consistency and accuracy in density measurements critical to quality control and material specification in the cork processing industry.
Key Topics
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Scope and Applicability
ISO 2031:2015 applies to granulated cork samples as described in ISO 633, offering a standardized procedure to assess physical properties relevant for manufacturing and engineering purposes.
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Sampling and Preparation
The standard references ISO 2067 for sampling granulated cork. Samples must be conditioned in an environment maintained at 20 ± 2 °C and 65 ± 5% relative humidity for 24 hours to ensure consistency.
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Apparatus Requirements
Key equipment includes:
- Precision balance with 0.5 g accuracy
- Specifically dimensioned cubic containers for different granule sizes (1 dm³ for ≤ 4 mm, 2 dm³ for > 4 mm granulates)
- Stainless steel conical hopper with a removable bottom for controlled filling
- Hopper stand to maintain consistent pouring height
- Ruler for leveling the granulated cork surface
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Measurement Procedure
After conditioning, a test portion sufficient to fill the container three times is poured through the hopper into the container without shaking or compressing the granules. The sample is leveled, weighed, and the bulk density calculated. Three repeated tests ensure reliability.
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Calculation and Reporting
Apparent bulk density is expressed in kilograms per cubic meter, calculated from the mass of the granulated cork in the container. The arithmetic mean of three measurements is reported, rounded to the nearest integer.
Applications
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Quality Control in Cork Processing
Manufacturers utilize ISO 2031:2015 to verify the consistency of granulated cork used in insulation, flooring, or composite materials, ensuring product reliability and compliance with customer specifications.
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Material Specification Development
Research and development teams use this standard to characterize cork samples, aiding in the development of new cork-based materials and products where density impacts performance.
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Regulatory Compliance and Trade
This standardized method supports international trade by providing a reliable and uniform testing method recognized globally, reducing technical barriers.
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Environmental and Engineering Uses
Accurate bulk density measurements support the evaluation of cork’s suitability for sustainable building materials, acoustic panels, and packaging solutions.
Related Standards
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ISO 633: Cork - Vocabulary
Provides the definitions and terminology for cork materials, ensuring clarity and consistency in descriptions related to cork products.
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ISO 2067: Granulated Cork - Sampling
Details the standardized method for collecting representative samples of granulated cork to be tested according to ISO 2031:2015.
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Additional ISO Standards on Cork Products
ISO offers various standards covering cork testing and classification, supporting comprehensive quality assurance across cork manufacturing processes.
By adhering to ISO 2031:2015, industry professionals can ensure precise, repeatable measurement of granulated cork bulk density, enhancing product quality and facilitating international standardization. Keywords such as "granulated cork," "apparent bulk density," "ISO 2031," and "cork sampling" are critical for stakeholders focusing on quality and material characterization in cork-related industries.