The flow test assesses the flow characteristics of floor smoothing and levelling compounds, evaluating a product’s ability to spread under its own weight.
This test is particularly important for pump application, in order to gauge the amount of water required, and can also help to determine whether an underlayment is considered to be self-levelling (has a fluid consistency, so spreads to a diameter of 140mm or more) or is self-smoothing (is less fluid, and has a spread diameter of less than 140mm).
How it works:
A tube, approximately 50mm (height) x 30mm (diameter), is placed vertically at the centre point of a glass plate.
The tube is filled to the top with the compound mixture.
Once it is full, the tube is lifted from the plate to a height of approximately 100mm. The timer is started at the same time.
The product is allowed to drain from the tube for around 15 seconds.
After four minutes, once the product has had time to settle, the resulting spread diameter of the product on the glass plate is measured.
The flow test is used to test every batch of smoothing and levelling compounds, to make sure that the product lies within F. Ball’s specified limits before it goes on the market.
To find out more about product testing, visit the F. Ball website.