Sample divider
A sample divider is an instrument used to divide a large sample into smaller, but still representative, subsamples. These devices are particularly important in sample preparation when a larger sample is taken, but only a smaller part of it is needed for analysis.
The sample divider shall ensure that each subsample has the same representative composition as the original total sample. This is crucial to ensure accurate and reliable analysis results.
There are several types of sample dividers, including:
- Corrugated dividers (corrugated boxes): These consist of a series of parallel gutters (corrugations) of the same size. The sample is evenly distributed over the corrugations and divided into equal subsamples by a combination of gravity and geometric division.
- Rotating Sample Dividers: These devices divide the sample by a combination of rotation and gravity. The sample is placed in a rotating container and falls through a series of openings evenly spaced around the circumference, each opening accommodating an equally sized subsample.
- Automatic Sample Dividers: These sample dividers often work with a combination of mechanical and electronic components to automatically divide the sample into subsamples. They can often be programmed to produce a certain number of subsamples or to divide a certain amount of samples.
Choosing the right sample divider depends on several factors, including the type of bulk, the size of the original sample, and the specific requirements of sample preparation and analysis.