EN ISO 11127-1:2021 specifies a standardized method for sampling non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives used in surface preparation of steel prior to painting. It defines how to take representative single samples from consignments, prepare a mixed sample, reduce it to a test sample and identify/store samples so they are suitable for the test methods given in ISO 11127-2 to ISO 11127-7. This part is published by CEN as the European adoption of ISO 11127-1:2020 and is part of a coherent set with the ISO 11126 series (types and requirements for non‑metallic abrasives).
Key topics and technical requirements
- Sampling frequency by consignment size
- < 50 tonnes: 5 single samples
- 50 to 100 tonnes: 10 single samples
-
100 tonnes: 15 single samples
- Sampling equipment
- Sample thief (seamless steel tube ~25 mm internal diameter, ~800 mm length) with holes along the tube spaced at 50 mm; hole diameter ≈ 3× largest particle (≈10 mm commonly used).
- Sample divider / riffler or equivalent for mechanical subdivision.
- Sample preparation procedure
- Combine single samples into a mixed sample and homogenize.
- Reduce sample size by mechanical or manual subdivision (riffle divider recommended), discarding alternate reduced portions until a suitably sized test sample remains.
- Test sample handling
- Store test samples in sealed containers until testing. Remix the retained test sample before taking portions; do not remix used portions back into the remaining sample.
- Sample identification and traceability
- Include product identification (per ISO 11126 where applicable), consignment details (supplier, order number, despatch/receipt dates) and any product traceability references.
- Guidance for stockpiles/transport units
- Annex A gives practical advice to minimise segregation bias when sampling piles, trucks, rail cars or barges.
Applications and who uses it
- Quality control laboratories performing acceptance testing of non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives.
- Surface preparation and blasting contractors ensuring incoming abrasive consignments are representative for testing.
- Paint and coatings manufacturers, procurement teams and specification writers needing verified abrasive properties for coating system performance.
- Inspectors and project QA personnel responsible for traceability and conformance before coating application.
Related standards
- ISO 11127 series (Parts 2–7) - test methods applied to samples obtained under ISO 11127-1.
- ISO 11126 series - types and requirements for non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives.
(See Annex B of EN ISO 11127-1:2021 for a complete list of related parts.)
Keywords: EN ISO 11127-1:2021, ISO 11127-1, sampling, non‑metallic blast‑cleaning abrasives, surface preparation, test methods, sample thief, riffle divider, ISO 11126.