ASTM D346/D346M-11 (2019)e1 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Practice for Collection and Preparation of Coke Samples for Laboratory Analysis (Designation: ASTM D346/D346M-11(2019)e1). This practice defines procedures for obtaining representative gross samples of coke and for reducing those samples to analysis size for physical tests, chemical analyses, and determination of total moisture.

Abstract

This standard specifies sampling locations and incrementing procedures, methods for reducing gross and divided samples to an analysis sample, and guidance on units of measurement (SI and inch–pound used separately). It is intended to ensure representative, reproducible coke samples for laboratory testing and to identify safety and handling considerations during sampling and sample preparation.

General information

• Status: Revised (editorial) — ASTM D346/D346M-11 updated with editorial revision e1 in 2019; listed in catalogues as the 2019 e1 revision.
• Publication date: Approved August 1, 2019; published (ASTM annual book/publication entry) in 2019 (document shown as D346/D346M-11(2019)e1).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 75.160.10 — Solid fuels (coal and coke); Coal and coke testing and sampling.
• Edition / version: D346/D346M-11 (2011 edition) with 2019 editorial revision (e1) — designation shown as D346/D346M-11(2019)e1.
• Number of pages: 5 pages (concise practice document).

Scope

The practice covers procedures for the collection and reduction of coke samples to produce a representative analysis sample for physical testing, chemical analysis, and total moisture determination. It addresses sampling from stockpiles, cars, ships, barges, trucks, and conveyors; selection and number of increments; reduction and division methods; and unit-system considerations (SI or inch–pound used independently).

Key topics and requirements

• Guidance for sampling locations and timing (e.g., sampling while loading/unloading and sampling below surface when necessary).
• Use of multiple equal increments (patterns/number of increments) to produce a representative gross sample.
• Methods for reducing gross samples to an analysis sample (mechanical or manual division and riffles where appropriate).
• Requirement to treat SI units and inch–pound units separately (do not combine values from the two systems).
• Notes on safety, handling, and need for purchaser/seller agreement for conformance sampling where segregation may occur.

Typical use and users

This practice is used by laboratories, metallurgical and coke plant personnel, coal and coke traders, quality control teams, and third‑party inspectors who need representative coke samples for proximate/ultimate analysis, moisture determination, physical testing, or contractual quality verification.

Related standards

Frequently used alongside other ASTM standards for coal and coke analysis and sample handling, for example: ASTM D167 (specific gravity/porosity of lump coke), ASTM D3172 (provisions for proximate analysis sample preparation), ASTM D3997 (preparing coke for microscopical analysis), and ASTM D5865 (gross calorific value of coal and coke). Users should consult the relevant test methods for downstream laboratory analyses.

Keywords

coke sampling, sample preparation, gross sample, analysis sample, coke reduction, coal and coke, sampling increments, SI units, inch–pound units, ASTM D346

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D346/D346M-11(2019)e1 is a practice that prescribes how to collect and reduce samples of coke to obtain representative laboratory analysis samples for physical and chemical testing and moisture determination.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers selection of sampling points and increments, methods for combining and reducing gross samples to an analysis sample, unit‑system guidance (SI vs. inch–pound), and general safety and handling considerations associated with coke sampling.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Coke producers, coke users (steel and metallurgical plants), laboratory analysts, quality assurance personnel, inspectors, and trading/contract parties requiring verified sample procedures.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: This document is the 2011 edition (D346/D346M-11) with an editorial revision recorded in 2019 as D346/D346M-11(2019)e1 (approved August 1, 2019). As of February 20, 2026, this 2019 e1 revision is the recorded revision in public catalogues consulted. Users who need the absolute current status or any subsequent revisions or withdrawals should verify directly with ASTM International for any updates after that date.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of ASTM’s D05 series (Coal and Coke) and is commonly referenced alongside other D05 test methods and practices used for coke and coal analysis.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Coke sampling, sample reduction, analysis sample, sampling increments, coal and coke, ASTM D346, SI units, inch–pound units.