Sample Processing

Step 1: Sample retrieval, usually from a client via standard or freight mail services to Microbeam’s lab. If applicable, direct sample drop off may be arranged.

Step 2: Large samples, coal, clay, or otherwise are too large to go directly into most lab sized mills. This samples are first pre-processed using a simple hammer and chisel to chip large material into smaller, more manageable segments that can then be fed into Microbeam’s hammermill. Most labs either cannot or do not pre-process these large sample segments.

Step 3: Microbeam’s hammermill processes these smaller chunks ~2 in in diameter, into smaller coarse pieces, 60-mesh. As material is crushed, pieces 60 mesh and smaller are processed through the hammermill grate. Depending on the hardness and size of pieces post chiseling, the material may need to be slowly fed into the hammermill to prevent stalling the motor. If the received sample is especially hard, or in some cases partially rock, additional fees may apply. In most cases, the standard rate applies.

Step 4: After samples are run through the hammermill, a pulverizer takes the coarse material, 60-mesh, and pulverizes the sample to a fine, 150-mesh.

Step 5: Next the 50-mesh sample is run through one of two splitters. The Splitter splits the 150-mesh sample into two equal representative samples either of which can be used for testing purposes.

Microbeam’s larger splitter is optimized for large quantities (5 - 55 gallons) of coarser samples, about 2 inches in diameter. Whereas the smaller splitter is optimized for smaller quantities (10 - 1000 grams) of finer samples, 60 mesh or less. Note, the particle limit is decided by the chute width of the splitter.

During the sampling processing, a cyclone vacuum is run to reduce dust buildup.

Step 6: After splitting, the samples are processed into several size fractions using a sieve shaker according to the specifications needed. These individual size fractions are suitable as input samples for a variety of ASTM methods.