Moisture Extraction
A specialized hollow drill bit penetrates deep into a bale or roll of fiber to collect material for laboratory analysis. Using core auger sampling allows quality control teams to obtain a representative cross-section of the moisture content without opening the entire package. This technique is more reliable than surface measurements because it reaches the protected interior of the load.
Operational Accuracy
The rotating action of the auger must be controlled to prevent friction from heating the sample and evaporating the moisture. Once the fiber is removed, the core auger sampling process requires immediate sealing of the material in an airtight container. Any delay in weighing the sample leads to inaccurate results that fail to represent the actual state of the delivery.
Contractual Role
Trade standards for pulp and wastepaper often dictate the number of cores required based on the total tonnage of the lot. Large shipments might require dozens of points to be tested to ensure the average is statistically significant. The data from core auger sampling forms the basis for any subsequent weight adjustments or claims.
Mills use these results to verify that the supplier has met the moisture specifications defined in the purchase order. Consistent use of this method provides a defensible record in the event of a commercial dispute regarding the dry weight of the fiber.