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ISO 17827-1:2016 (CAN/CSA-ISO 17827-1:17) – Solid Biofuels Particle Size Analysis Using the Oscillating Screen Method
Scope, Technical Requirements, and Implementation of the Oscillating Screen Method for Uncompressed Solid Biofuels per ISO 17827-1:2016
Introduction
The determination of particle size distribution (PSD) is critical for the handling, processing, and combustion of solid biofuels. ISO 17827-1:2016 (adopted in Canada as CAN/CSA-ISO 17827-1:17) specifies a precise, reproducible oscillating screen method for uncompressed fuels with nominal particle sizes larger than 3.15 mm. This article examines the standard’s scope, technical requirements, implementation considerations, and compliance aspects.
Scope of ISO 17827-1:2016
ISO 17827-1 applies to uncompressed solid biofuels such as wood chips, forest residues, hog fuel, and certain agricultural feedstocks. The method uses an oscillating screen (sieve shaker) with apertures from 3.15 mm upward, with a recommended series based on the R 20 series of ISO 565. It is intended for quality control, classification (e.g., P16, P31.5, P45 classes), and equipment design. The method does not apply to compressed fuels (pellets, briquettes) or to particles smaller than 3.15 mm (which are covered in ISO 17827-2:2016).
Note: The standard is written for uncompressed materials only. Compressed fuels require other methods due to their physical stability and shape.
Key Technical Requirements
Apparatus
The oscillating screen apparatus must provide a circular or elliptical motion with a horizontal amplitude of 20–50 mm and a frequency of 150–300 min–1. The sieving duration is typically 10–15 minutes, but validation is required to ensure complete separation without particle degradation.
Sieve Apertures and Tolerances
Sieves must conform to ISO 3310-1 for woven metal wire cloth. The nominal aperture sizes and permissible deviations are given in the table below (selected sizes from the standard).
| Nominal aperture size (mm) | Permissible maximum deviation (%) | Typical use (class) |
|---|---|---|
| 63 | ±3 | P63 |
| 45 | ±3 | P45 |
| 31.5 | ±3 | P31.5 |
| 22.4 | ±3 | P22.4 |
| 16 | ±3 | P16 |
| 8.0 | ±3 | P8 |
| 5.6 | ±3 | P5.6 |
| 3.15 | ±3 | P3.15 |
TIP: Always verify that sieves are calibrated according to ISO 3310-1. Even minor wear can significantly shift results, especially for apertures near 3.15 mm.
Test Sample
The sample mass should be sufficient to produce a representative result and shall be dried to a moisture content of (10 ± 2) % (mass fraction) prior to sieving, unless specified otherwise. Oversized or fibrous particles may require manual sieving assistance to avoid blinding.
Procedure
- Weigh the dried test sample to the nearest 0.1 g.
- Assemble the sieve stack from largest aperture at top to smallest at bottom, with a bottom pan or fines collector.
- Place the sample on the top sieve and secure the lid.
- Agitate at the specified conditions for the validated time (e.g., 15 min).
- Weigh the material retained on each sieve (including manual removal if necessary).
- Calculate the mass percentage retained on each sieve and cumulative oversize/undersize.
BEST PRACTICE: Perform a preliminary sieving time test with a reference material to validate that further sieving does not change the mass retained by more than 1 % on any sieve.
Implementation Highlights
CSA Adoption
CAN/CSA-ISO 17827-1:17 is the Canadian Standards Association adoption of ISO 17827-1:2016. It includes no technical modifications but is recognized as a National Standard of Canada. Laboratories seeking accreditation in Canada must use this CSA version for conformance.
Relation to Other Standards
ISO 17827-1 is part of a suite of solid biofuel standards:
- ISO 17827-2:2016 — Oscillating screen method for apertures smaller than 3.15 mm.
- ISO 17830:2016 — Particle size distribution of disintegrated pellets.
- ISO 17225 series — Fuel specifications and classes (e.g., P16S, P31.5).
Sample Handling
Wood chips and hog fuel often contain long splinters that can bridge over sieve apertures. Manual loosening or using a few gentle pushes with a soft brush on each sieve after mechanical sieving is allowed provided it does not break particles. Hand sieving with a gentle vertical motion may also be used for the coarsest fractions.
CAUTION: Excessive amplitude or prolonged sieving can break friable particles, biasing the distribution toward finer sizes. Always validate your sieving parameters with a test sample.
Compliance and Quality Assurance Notes
Calibration and Verification
Sieves must be individually inspected for damage and calibrated at intervals not exceeding 12 months. A verification test using a reference material (e.g., glass spheres or certified sand) is recommended quarterly to ensure reproducibility.
Precision Data
Repeatability (r) and reproducibility (R) values are provided in Annex A of the standard. For example, at the P16 sieve (16 mm), repeatability is typically 2–3 % mass retained. Laboratories should establish their own internal precision limits based on inter-laboratory crosschecks.
Reporting
The test report must include:
- Reference to ISO 17827-1:2016 (or CAN/CSA-ISO 17827-1:17 for Canada).
- Total mass of test portion, moisture content (on dry basis).
- Sieve apertures used and mass retained on each sieve.
- Calculated cumulative oversize (or undersize) percentages.
- Any deviations from the standard procedure (e.g., manual sieving intervention).
TIP: When reporting to ISO 17225 fuel classes, ensure the calculated oversize is directly comparable to the class definitions (e.g., P31.5 requires ≤ 60 % oversize at 31.5 mm).
Training and Competence
Operators should be trained in the correct stack assembly, sieving technique, and how to handle fibrous or sticky materials. Proficiency testing programs (e.g., BIPEA, NATA) are available for solid biofuels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between ISO 17827-1 and ISO 17827-2?
A: ISO 17827-1 covers apertures ≥ 3.15 mm and uses oscillating screens, while Part 2 covers apertures below 3.15 mm using the same apparatus but different sieve sizes and smaller sample mass. Together they cover the full range for uncompressed solid biofuels.
A: ISO 17827-1 covers apertures ≥ 3.15 mm and uses oscillating screens, while Part 2 covers apertures below 3.15 mm using the same apparatus but different sieve sizes and smaller sample mass. Together they cover the full range for uncompressed solid biofuels.
Q: Can I use this method for wood pellets or briquettes?
A: No. ISO 17827-1 is intended for uncompressed fuels only. For pellets, use ISO 17830 (disintegrated pellets) or ISO 17831-1 (mechanical durability).
A: No. ISO 17827-1 is intended for uncompressed fuels only. For pellets, use ISO 17830 (disintegrated pellets) or ISO 17831-1 (mechanical durability).
Q: Is it mandatory to use the CSA version in Canada?
A: Yes, for regulatory conformity and lab accreditation in Canada, you must follow CAN/CSA-ISO 17827-1:17. The content is identical to the ISO edition, but the CSA publication is the recognized national standard.
A: Yes, for regulatory conformity and lab accreditation in Canada, you must follow CAN/CSA-ISO 17827-1:17. The content is identical to the ISO edition, but the CSA publication is the recognized national standard.
Q: How is the method validated for a new material type?
A: Perform a sieving time test: sieve for 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes, and plot mass retained on each sieve versus time. Select the minimum time after which changes are ≤ 1 % for any fraction. Also verify that no particle breakage occurs (microscope check of fines).
A: Perform a sieving time test: sieve for 5, 10, 15, and 20 minutes, and plot mass retained on each sieve versus time. Select the minimum time after which changes are ≤ 1 % for any fraction. Also verify that no particle breakage occurs (microscope check of fines).
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