Inline Process
Inline processes refer to procedures and techniques that are applied during the ongoing production or processing process, as opposed to offline processes that are carried out separately from the main process.
In the context of bulk material sampling, the term "inline" specifically refers to sampling methods where samples are taken directly from the running product stream without the need to stop or interrupt the process. This can be achieved, for example, through specialized sampling probes or units that are integrated into the production line or the transportation path.
Inline sampling methods offer several advantages:
- They enable continuous or nearly continuous monitoring of the product stream.
- They cause little to no interruptions or disruptions to the production or transportation process.
- They can often be automated or semi-automated, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of errors or contamination.
However, inline sampling methods also require careful planning and execution to ensure that the samples taken are representative of the entire product stream and that the sampling equipment is properly installed, operated, and maintained.