This Part of this Technical Specification describes methods for taking samples of solid biofuels, for example, from the place where the raw materials grow, from production plant, from deliveries, or from stock. It includes both manual and mechanical methods, and is applicable to solid biofuels that are either:
-- fine and regularly-shaped particulate materials, particle sizes up to about 10 mm that can be sampled using a scoop or pipe, for example: sawdust, olive stones and wood pellets;
-- coarse or irregularly-shaped particulate materials, particle sizes up to about 200 mm that can be sampled using a fork or shovel, for example: wood chips and nut shells, forest residue chips, and loose straw;
-- baled materials that require a special sampling tool to be used if the bales are not to be broken open for sampling, for example: baled straw or grass;
-- large pieces (particles sizes above 200 mm) which are to be picked manually;
-- fibrous and vegetable waste dewatered in belt press.
The methods described in this Technical Specification may be used, for example, when the samples are to be tested for bulk density, durability, particle size distribution, moisture content, ash content, ash melting behaviour, calorific value, chemical composition, and impurities. The methods are not intended for obtaining the very large samples required for the testing of bridging properties. Informative Annex B gives
recommendations for the sampling frequency for different situations. Part 2 of this Technical Specification describes methods to be used in the particular situation when samples are to be taken from lorry-loads of solid biofuels.