ISO 11093-1:1994

Overview

ISO 11093-1:1994, "Paper and board - Testing of cores - Part 1: Sampling", specifies a standardised method for obtaining a representative sample of a lot of cores (spool cores, paperboard cores) for downstream testing. Based on ISO 186:1994, the standard defines how to select, handle and document specimens so that test results reliably reflect the lot’s quality.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope: Applies to sampling of cores taken from packaged units within a lot to form test specimens.
• Definitions: Clear terms for lot, specimen, sample, test piece, and selected at random to ensure consistent interpretation.
• Sampling principle: Cores are selected at random from packaged units; selected items are subdivided and mixed to produce a representative sample for testing.
• Number of specimens: Prescribes minimum specimen counts by lot size (examples from the standard):
  • Up to 99 cores: 5 specimens
  • 100 to 499 cores: 10 specimens
  • 500 and more cores: 20 specimens
  • Note: If less than 50% of the total is available for sampling, the sampling is invalid unless otherwise agreed.
• Precautions for handling: Protect specimens from harmful influences such as direct sunlight, large climatic fluctuations, liquids, etc., to avoid altering test outcomes.
• Marking and identification: Specimens and test pieces must be indelibly marked so each can be identified unambiguously (sampling report number, sampler signature).
• Re-sampling rules: If sampling is invalidated by accident, re-sampling must follow the same method and, except in special cases, may not be taken from the same packaged units.
• Sampling report: Required contents include reference to ISO 11093-1, type/designation, place/date/signature of sampler, number of specimens/test pieces, and any deviations from the method.

Applications and users

• Quality control and laboratory personnel in the paper, board and packaging industries conducting core testing (e.g., dimensional, moisture, mechanical properties).
• Manufacturers and suppliers of spool cores and paperboard cores to ensure lot traceability and compliance.
• Procurement and inspection teams who need reliable, standardised sampling procedures for acceptance testing.
• Accredited test laboratories producing results for certification, R&D, or contractual dispute resolution.

Related standards

• ISO 11093 (series) - other parts cover conditioning, moisture determination (oven drying), dimensional measurements, concentric rotation characteristics, dynamic cleavage, flat crush resistance.
• ISO 186:1994 - general sampling to determine average quality (basis for this part).

Keywords: ISO 11093-1, core sampling, paper cores, spool cores, sampling method, specimen numbers, lot sampling, core testing standard.