Overview
ASTM E1107-15(2023): Standard Test Method for Measuring the Throughput of Resource-Recovery Unit Operations provides a comprehensive method to accurately determine the mass flow rate (throughput) of resource recovery unit operations in industrial settings. Developed by ASTM International, this standard is vital for documenting throughput during the operation of processors or separators and benchmarking against design requirements for resource recovery plants. The method emphasizes safety, consistent sampling procedures, and reliable data collection to enable the effective evaluation and optimization of waste management processes.
Key Topics
- Throughput Measurement: Defines procedures for measuring the mass flow rate, typically in kilograms per hour (kg/h), for resource recovery equipment such as processors, binary separators (two streams), and polynary separators (three or more streams).
- Sampling Techniques: Specifies best practices for acquiring representative samples from output streams, reducing errors associated with process interruptions. For equipment not performing separation, sampling may be conducted on either input or output streams.
- Steady-State Operation: Requires that samples are only taken once a steady-state condition has been reached, typically after at least 30 minutes of operation under normal conditions.
- Equipment and Apparatus: Details required tools, including clean and precisely marked containers, accurate scales, stopwatches, and various material handling utensils.
- Safety Considerations: Outlines safety protocols for workers handling solid waste samples, including use of gloves, safety glasses, and dust masks. Specific attention is given to avoiding accidents around moving equipment and maintaining proper hygiene.
- Reporting and Documentation: Establishes requirements for comprehensive reports, including details of sampling locations, timing, conditions, container weights, and any special observations.
Applications
ASTM E1107-15(2023) is applied across a variety of resource recovery and waste management environments to:
- Monitor Operational Efficiency: Ensure unit operations are performing in line with their design specifications by regularly measuring throughput.
- Performance Evaluation: Accompany purity and recovery assessments for materials separators to provide a holistic view of process effectiveness.
- Process Optimization: Identify bottlenecks and support process improvements through reliable, reproducible data on actual throughput.
- Regulatory Compliance: Support compliance with environmental and health regulations by providing standardized documentation of throughput measurements.
- Quality Control: Enable comparison of mass flow rates at different stages of waste processing, ensuring consistent quality and throughput across plant operations.
Related Standards
- ASTM D75/D75M: Practice for Sampling Aggregates - referenced for determining minimum sample sizes based on particle size.
- ASTM E868: Test Methods for Performance Testing of Mechanical Conveying Equipment (Withdrawn), which may be referenced for further procedural guidance.
- Relevant International Guidelines: Developed in line with globally recognized standardization principles such as those in the WTO Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee’s guidance.
Practical Value
By following ASTM E1107-15(2023), organizations gain:
- Greater reliability in throughput data, leading to informed operational decisions.
- Consistent methodologies for sampling and testing, minimizing variability and ensuring repeatable results.
- Enhanced worker safety practices during sampling and measurement.
- Improved documentation and traceability for audits, regulatory reviews, and performance optimization.
Implementing this standard supports operational excellence within the resource recovery industry, contributing to more sustainable and efficient plant management by providing a standardized approach to measuring and reporting throughput.
Keywords: mass flow rate, throughput measurement, resource recovery, unit operations, waste management, ASTM E1107-15, separator, processor, sampling procedure, plant performance, material recovery.