This standard prescribes the general methods for determining the particle size distribution of particulate and granular materials using test sieves. It covers sample preparation, both dry and wet sieving procedures, and the calculation and expression of results.
Methods for test sieving
Quick Reference Values
sieving endpoint criteriaMass change < 0.1% of total sample mass per minute
weighing accuracyWithin 0.1% of the total sample mass
oven drying temperature105 ± 5 °C
standard sieve diameter200 mm or 300 mm
Key Formulas
Percentage retained = (Mass of fraction retained / Total mass of test sample) × 100
Cumulative percentage passing = 100 - Cumulative percentage retained
Practical Notes
Never force particles through the sieve mesh with hard tools or excessive hand pressure, as this distorts the apertures.
Do not overload the sieves. If the mass retained exceeds the maximum recommended limit, split the sample or use a sieve with a larger surface area.
Wet sieving is highly recommended for materials containing significant fine particles or clay that tend to agglomerate during dry sieving.