scope:

This practice² covers the reduction and division of gross or divided samples, and the preparation of composite samples, up to and including the individual portions for laboratory analysis.

Reduction and division procedures are prescribed for coals of the following groups:

Group A includes coals that have been cleaned in all sizes.

Group B includes all other coals. Unknown coals are to be considered under Group B.

Group A allows smaller weight laboratory samples to be retained than Group B. These lower weights may be used for particular coals if they have been shown, by using the procedures of A1.2, to give a sample preparation and analysis variance which is no more than 20 % of the total analysis variance.

Units-The values stated in either SI units or inchpound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

² For more detailed explanation of this practice, see Keller, G. E., "Determination of Quantities Needed in Coal Sample Preparation and Analysis," Transactions, Vol 232, 1965, pp. 218-226.