As ships are loaded or discharged at terminals around the world, the vast majority of commodities are mechanically sampled. If properly designed, operated and maintained, mechanical sampling systems are potentially more accurate than manual methods. Yet, if there is a failure in the system, there could be a very high risk that a sample collected and processed by the system will be incorrect and will not reflect the actual quality of the product.
Biased quality results due to faulty mechanical sampling systems can result in significant economic penalties for suppliers or receivers. Incorrect results may also affect the ability of a plant to monitor accurately its own processes and efficiencies. More so, its very compliance with environmental regulations may be called into doubt....
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Approx 865 words from Bulk Materials International, September/October 2001,
page 15-16.
