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D2234 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Overview
Data obtained from coal samples are used in establishing price, controlling mine and cleaning plant operations, allocating production costs, and determining plant or component efficiency. This practice, D2234/D2234M, covers procedures for the collection of a gross sample of coal under various conditions of sampling. It directs the user to the appropriate ASTM standard for specific sampling conditions. The sample is to be crushed and further prepared for analysis in accordance with Practice D2013/D2013M. The task of obtaining a sample of reasonable mass to represent an entire lot emphasizes the necessity for using standard sampling procedures, especially given the wide variety of coal-handling facilities.
Coal is one of the most difficult materials to sample due to its varying composition from noncombustible particles to those that can be burned completely, with all gradations in between. Proper collection requires an understanding of the physical character of the coal, the number and mass of increments, and the overall precision required.
⚙️ Sampling Procedures and Preparation
This practice describes general and special purpose sampling procedures for coals by size and condition of preparation (for example, mechanically cleaned coal or raw coal) and by sampling characteristics. The procedures for dividing large samples before any crushing are given in this practice. The wide varieties of coal-handling facilities preclude the publication of detailed procedures for every sampling situation, thus the user must apply these guidelines appropriately.
Units: The values stated in either SI units or non-SI 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.
📊 Key Referenced Standards and Terminology
This practice references several ASTM standards essential for coal sampling and analysis. Definitions applicable to this practice are listed in Terminology D121.
| 🟦 Standard | 📏 Description |
|---|---|
| D121 | Terminology of Coal and Coke |
| D2013/D2013M | Practice for Preparing Coal Samples for Analysis |
| D4749 | Test Method for Performing the Sieve Analysis of Coal and Designating Coal Size |
| D6609 | Guide for Part-Stream Sampling of Coal |
| D6883 | Practice for Manual Sampling of Stationary Coal from Railroad Cars, Barges, Trucks, or Stockpiles |
| D7430 | Practice for Mechanical Sampling of Coal |
| E456 | Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics |
💡 Tip: When sampling coal, consider the specific condition of the coal, such as mechanically cleaned or raw coal, and select the appropriate procedure from the referenced standards to ensure representativeness.
⚠️ Warning: This standard does not address all safety concerns. It is the responsibility of the user to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of ASTM D2234/D2234M?
This standard covers procedures for collecting a gross sample of coal under various conditions of sampling and directs users to the appropriate ASTM standard for specific sampling situations, such as for mechanically cleaned or raw coal.
💡 How is precision ensured in coal sampling?
Precision is achieved by understanding the coal’s physical character, determining the number and mass of increments, and following standard procedures as outlined in this practice, which provides overall requirements for sample collection.
⚡ What are the unit requirements in this practice?
Values are stated in either SI units or non-SI units separately. To ensure conformance, each system must be used independently, and values from the two systems shall not be combined as they are not exact equivalents.
📌 Which standards are referenced for sample preparation and analysis?
Practice D2013/D2013M is referenced for preparing coal samples for analysis after collection. Other key references include D6883 for manual sampling and D7430 for mechanical sampling of coal.