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D4182-97 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D4182 – 97 (Reapproved 2004) establishes a standardized practice for evaluating laboratories that utilize ASTM procedures in the sampling and analysis of coal and coke. It serves as a framework for assessing laboratory competence in accordance with the requirements of Committee D05 on Coal and Coke.
📐 Introduction and Scope
The practice acknowledges that coal testing facilities traditionally serve purposes such as exploration and evaluation of coal fields, establishment of mining and preparation capabilities, coal quality evaluation for contractual and regulatory compliance, confirmation of properties for coal processing and utilization, and research pursuits. The scope of this practice is limited to evaluating laboratories using ASTM procedures under Committee D05, focusing solely on the capabilities claimed by the laboratory, without extending to unclaimed competencies.
⚙️ Key Referenced Standards
This practice incorporates a range of ASTM standards that specify methods for sample collection, preparation, and analysis. Adherence to these standards is critical for accurate and consistent laboratory evaluation.
| 📏 Standard | 📐 Title |
|---|---|
| D346 | Practice for Collection and Preparation of Coke Samples for Laboratory Analysis |
| D409 | Test Method for Grindability of Coal by the Hardgrove-Machine Method |
| D2013 | Practice for Preparing Coal Samples for Analysis |
| D2234/D2234M | Practice for Collection of a Gross Sample of Coal |
| D3302 | Test Method for Total Moisture in Coal |
📊 Laboratory Evaluation Framework
The evaluation relies on the specified ASTM standards to assess laboratory performance. Laboratories must demonstrate proficiency in the test methods relevant to their claimed services. Key analytical methods include determinations of moisture, ash, volatile matter, and sulfur content.
| 🔬 Test Method | ⚙️ Parameter |
|---|---|
| D3173 | Moisture in Analysis Sample |
| D3174 | Ash in Analysis Sample |
| D3175 | Volatile Matter in Analysis Sample |
| D3177 | Total Sulfur in Analysis Sample |
| D4239 | Sulfur in Analysis Sample by High-Temperature Combustion |
⚠️ Important Note: Several standards referenced in this practice, such as D1989, D2795, D3178, D3179, and D3286, have been withdrawn. Laboratories should use the latest approved versions of active standards as per the ASTM website.
💡 Tip: The evaluation only covers capabilities claimed by the laboratory. Laboratories should clearly define their scope of analysis before undergoing evaluation under this practice.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the purpose of ASTM D4182?
It provides a standardized method for evaluating laboratories that use ASTM procedures for sampling and analysis of coal and coke, ensuring they meet established quality and consistency standards.
💡 Who can use this practice?
It is designed for laboratory managers, quality assurance teams, and regulatory bodies involved in coal and coke testing. It is applicable to any laboratory claiming competence in these areas.
⚡ Does this practice evaluate all laboratory capabilities?
No, it is intended only for evaluating the specific capabilities claimed by the laboratory, as per the scope of the ASTM procedures under Committee D05.
📌 Which committee oversees this standard?
ASTM Committee D05 on Coal and Coke, specifically Subcommittee D05.30 on Quality Assurance, has jurisdiction over this practice.