The reliability of the results of any test method depend primarily upon how well the specimens tested represent the original source material. Much time and effort are required, and can justifiably be spent, to be sure that all the sampling operations are at random and are representative. Failure to provide a test specimen which accurately represents the material from which it is drawn will produce misleading test results regardless of the accuracy and precision of the test method.

1.1 This practice covers procedures for taking a lot sample, at the source, of cotton fibers and reducing this sample through a series of steps to provide a relatively small test specimen of loose cotton fibers, representative of the source material and suitable for the determination of a single property, or a series of fiber properties, according to established procedures.

1.2 This practice has been used extensively for commercial acceptance testing of cotton fibers as well as for arbitration testing and research.

1.3 The procedures do not cover the selection of samples for the determination of moisture. Special handling and protection of the sample from the prevailing atmosphere required for samples taken for the determination of moisture are not provided for in this practice. See Test Method D 2495. Note 1This practice is used in taking samples of cotton for testing by Test Methods D 1440, D 1442, D 1445, D 1447, D 1448, D 1464, D 2480, D 2496, and D 2812.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measure are included in this standard.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.