5.1 It is intended that this practice be used to provide a sample representative of the coal from which it is collected. Because of the variability of coal and the wide variety of sampling equipment, caution should be used in all stages of sampling, from system specifications and equipment procurement to equipment acceptance testing and actually taking the final sample.

5.2 After further processing (Practice D2013/D2013M), the sample may be analyzed for a number of different parameters. These parameters may affect the lot's value, its ability to meet specifications, its environmental impact, as well as other properties.

1.1 This practice covers procedures for the collection of a sample under various conditions of sampling and directs the user to the appropriate ASTM standard for that sampling condition. The sample is to be crushed and further prepared for analysis in accordance with Practice D2013/D2013M. However, the procedures for dividing large samples before any crushing are given in this practice.

1.2 This practice describes general and special purpose sampling procedures for coals (1) by size and condition of preparation (for example, mechanically cleaned coal or raw coal) and (2) by sampling characteristics.

1.3 Units—The values stated in either SI units or non-SI units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.4 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.