To sample a FINE free-falling stream (Sampling a Conveyor Belt with a cross-belt cutter) as depicted, a sampling cup shall be used with the minimum dimensions as given in figure below. In addition, the length of the cup should be at least three times the width of the falling stream to be sampled and the edges of the opening must be sharp to ensure a clean cut.

Procedure

• Sample the fertilizer during the free fall by arranging the sampling cup in such a way that it passes horizontally through the falling stream. Ensure that the sampling cup extends completely through the stream.
• Pass the cup through the stream at random times during the transfer operation. Make sure that at least 10 separate passes are made at a uniform speed such that the cup is approximately half filled each time.
• Empty the contents of the cup from each pass into a suitable container. The total sample obtained shall be 5 to 10 kilograms.