Coal Sampling
Inter-Laboratory Comparison (ILC)
About Quality Ensure's Coal Sampling Inter-Laboratory Comparison (ILC)
Quality Ensure (Pty) Ltd facilitates a specialised Inter-Laboratory Comparison (ILC) specifically designed for the coal testing industry. Due to the logistical challenges and strict mining regulations that often restrict site access , our ILC campaigns provide a vital, standardized platform for laboratories to statistically evaluate and compare their field sampling and analytical proficiency.
How Our Sampling ILC Works
Our campaigns go beyond analytical testing by evaluating the entire sampling and preparation process. We organise live sampling events at designated colliery stockpiles. Participating laboratories deploy their teams to independently draw up sampling plans and extract samples directly from the lot. This approach ensures that all stages of sampling and preparation are included in the evaluation, reflecting real-world operational conditions.
Why Participate in a Coal Sampling ILC?
Isolate Sampling Error
Sampling accounts for the majority of variance in coal testing. Our scheme isolates your team's sampling technique from analytical error to identify true field bias.
ISO 17025:2017 Compliance
Fulfil mandatory accreditation body and/or ISO 17025:2017 requirements to monitor the validity of your sampling activities and personnel competency.
Standardised Evaluation
Assess your team's adherence to international coal sampling standards in a controlled, comparative environment.
Statistical Rigor & Confidentiality
All results are evaluated using robust statistical analysis, primarily utilising Z-scores to categorise performance (following ISO 13528 guidelines). We calculate a consensus assigned value based on the robust mean of all participants. We guarantee strict confidentiality; individual performance data and unique laboratory identities are protected and never shared with third parties.
By participating in our sampling ILCs , laboratories can isolate sampling error, verify their adherence to relevant standards, and fulfil ongoing quality assurance requirements.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Participants can be evaluated across a wide range of critical coal parameters, including:
- Sampling & Sample Preparation
- Proximate Analysis (Ash, Inherent Moisture, Volatile Matter)
- Size Grading
- Total Moisture (One and Two-Stage)
- Calorific Value (CV)
- Total Sulphur
- Abrasive Index (AI)
- Ash Fusion Temperature (AFT)
Secure Your Team's Spot for the Next Sampling Round
Sampling is the most significant contributor to error in the coal testing industry. Validate your team’s techniques with our statistically rigorous, confidential Inter-Laboratory Comparison scheme.
