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D346 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D346/D346M-11 (2019) establishes critical procedures for the collection and preparation of coke samples intended for laboratory analysis, including physical tests, chemical analyses, and total moisture determination. This practice addresses the inherent sampling difficulty of coke, particularly run-of-oven and foundry types, by mandating rigorous handling and adherence to specified protocols.
📐 Sample Collection Requirements
Gross samples must be taken in quantities not less than those designated in D346, regardless of whether the coke lot is a few tons or several hundred tons. Due to the heterogeneous nature of coke, careful and conscientious sampling is imperative. Values are reported strictly in either SI units or inch-pound units, independently, with conversions performed according to IEEE/ASTM SI 10; the two unit systems must never be combined.
⚠️ Critical: Inaccurate or biased sampling can compromise all subsequent analyses. Adherence to the collection specifications in Section 3 (Significance and Use) is essential for obtaining a representative sample.
| 📏 Parameter | 📐 Specification |
|---|---|
| Sample Quantity | Not less than designated minimum (see standard tables) |
| Unit System | SI or inch-pound, used independently per IEEE/ASTM SI 10 |
| Material Type | Run-of-oven coke, foundry coke, or other types requiring careful handling |
⚙️ Sample Reduction Procedures
Reduction of the gross sample to an analysis sample must be executed to maintain representativeness. Procedures include mechanical splitting or hand methods such as coning and quartering, often referencing D2013/D2013M for best practices. The prepared sample is suitable for physical tests (e.g., drop shatter per D3038), chemical analyses, and total moisture determination per D3302/D3302M. The process must ensure the final sample accurately reflects the original lot.
💡 Technical Note: For physical tests like tumbler testing (D3402), integrate sample reduction with the specific test method requirements to preserve material integrity and consistency.
| ⚡ Step | 📏 Procedure |
|---|---|
| Collection | Obtain gross sample of designated minimum quantity per D346 |
| Reduction | Divide using mechanical splitter or coning/quartering per D2013 |
| Analysis | Apply physical, chemical, or moisture tests as required |
📊 Integrated Test Standards
This practice serves as a foundation for various coke analyses by incorporating other ASTM standards. The table below highlights key referenced documents and their applications.
| 🟦 Standard | 📏 Title | 🎯 Application |
|---|---|---|
| D167 | Apparent and True Specific Gravity and Porosity of Lump Coke | Physical density and porosity measurement |
| D293/D293M | Test Method for the Sieve Analysis of Coke | Particle size distribution characterization |
| D2013/D2013M | Practice for Preparing Coal Samples for Analysis | General sample reduction and preparation guidance |
| D3302/D3302M | Test Method for Total Moisture in Coal | Moisture content determination for quality control |
| D3038 | Test Method for Drop Shatter Test for Coke | Impact resistance evaluation |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the primary purpose of ASTM D346? — It provides procedures for collecting and reducing coke samples for laboratory analysis, ensuring representativeness for physical, chemical, and moisture testing.
💡 How does this standard address coke variability? — It emphasizes careful handling and strict adherence to designated sample quantities, particularly for run-of-oven and foundry coke, which are difficult to sample.
⚡ Are SI and inch-pound units interchangeable in D346? — No, they must be used independently; conversion follows IEEE/ASTM SI 10, and values from the two systems must never be combined.
📌 Which ASTM standard is referenced for sample preparation in coke analysis? — D2013/D2013M is referenced for general sample preparation practices when applying D346 to coke.