ISO 11127-1:2020

Overview

ISO 11127-1:2020 specifies a standardized method for the sampling of non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives used in the preparation of steel substrates before painting. It defines how to obtain representative single samples from consignments, combine them into a mixed sample, and subdivide that mixed sample into a test sample suitable for the subsequent laboratory test methods in the ISO 11127 series (particle size, density, moisture, soluble contaminants, chloride content, etc.).

Key topics and requirements

• Sampling scope: Applies to non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives and is part of the ISO 11127 test‑methods series; product types and requirements are defined in the ISO 11126 series.
• Sampling frequency: Number of single samples per consignment:
  • < 50 tonnes → 5 single samples
  • 50–100 tonnes → 10 single samples

  • 100 tonnes → 15 single samples

• Apparatus:
  • Sample thief: seamless steel tube, inside diameter ≈ 25 mm, length ≈ 800 mm, holes along the tube spaced 50 mm apart; hole diameter ≈ 3× largest particle (typically 10 mm for many non‑metallic abrasives).
  • Sample divider / riffler or equivalent equipment for mechanical subdivision.
• Procedure overview:
  • Take uniformly distributed single samples from the consignment (manual or mechanical).
  • Combine and thoroughly mix single samples to form a mixed sample.
  • Reduce mixed sample size by mechanical or manual subdivision (use riffler or split samples); discard one of the reduced portions after each subdivision until a test sample of required size remains.
  • Store test samples in a sealed container; remix before taking test portions and do not return used portions to the remainder.
• Sample identification: Test samples must be clearly labeled with product identification, consignment details (supplier, order number, dispatch/receipt dates) and traceability references.

Applications and users

ISO 11127-1 is essential for:

• Coating specifiers, inspectors and quality control labs conducting abrasive testing prior to blast cleaning and coating application.
• Abrasive suppliers and procurement teams who must demonstrate consistent quality and compliance.
• Contractors and asset owners needing reliable test samples to verify abrasive characteristics that affect surface profile, cleanliness and coating performance.

Practical benefits include consistent, reproducible sampling for downstream tests such as particle size distribution, apparent density, moisture and soluble contaminants - all critical to effective blast‑cleaning and coating longevity.

Related standards

• ISO 11127 series (test methods): Parts 2–8 (particle size, density, hardness, moisture, soluble contaminants, chlorides).
• ISO 11126 series (specifications for non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives).
• Annex A of ISO 11127-1 gives guidance on sampling from stockpiles and transportation units (increments from top/mid/bottom, sampling tubes, trenching).