Link points to Internet Archive / others. Not hosted by InfraLens. Details
IS 2430:1986 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for methods for sampling of aggregates for concrete. IS 2430 outlines the standard procedures for obtaining representative samples of fine and coarse aggregates for concrete from various sources such as stockpiles, bins, and vehicles. It details the minimum gross sample weights based on aggregate size and establishes standardized methods for sample reduction (like quartering) prior to laboratory testing.
Methods for Sampling of Aggregates for Concrete
Overview
Status
Current
Usage level
Frequently Used
Domain
Materials Science — Cement, Concrete, Aggregates and RCC
! Always take samples from multiple random locations (top, middle, and bottom) in a stockpile to prevent segregation bias.
! When sampling from stockpiles, remove the outer layer of material first, as it is often subject to segregation and weathering.
! Proper sample reduction using a mechanical sample splitter or the manual quartering method is crucial to ensure the lab test sample remains representative of the gross sample.
Covers procedures for sampling coarse, fine, or a combination of aggregates from various sources for testing purposes.
BS EN 932-1:1997BSI (UK) / CEN (Europe)
HighCurrent
Tests for general properties of aggregates - Part 1: Methods for sampling
Specifies methods for obtaining samples of aggregates from deliveries, stockpiles, and production processes.
AASHTO T 2-21AASHTO (US)
HighCurrent
Standard Method of Test for Sampling of Aggregates
Defines procedures for sampling aggregates for transportation and highway projects, highly aligned with ASTM D75.
AS 1141.3.1:2012Standards Australia (Australia)
HighCurrent
Methods for sampling and testing aggregates - Sampling - Aggregates
Details the methods for obtaining representative samples of aggregates from stockpiles, conveyors, and other locations.
Key Differences
≠IS 2430 specifies the number of increments based on the total quantity (lot size in m³) of the aggregate, whereas ASTM D75 provides general guidance (e.g., 'at least three increments') without linking it directly to total lot size.
≠The minimum mass of the field sample required often differs. For example, for 20 mm nominal size aggregate, IS 2430 requires 40 kg, while ASTM D75 requires ~25 kg (50 lb).
≠IS 2430 is a self-contained document describing both sampling and sample reduction (coning and quartering). ASTM D75 focuses on obtaining the field sample and explicitly refers to a separate standard, ASTM C702, for sample reduction procedures.
≠BS EN 932-1 generally requires significantly larger bulk sample masses compared to both IS 2430 and ASTM D75, especially for larger aggregate sizes.
Key Similarities
≈The fundamental principle of obtaining a representative sample by combining multiple smaller portions (increments) taken from various parts of the lot is common to all standards.
≈All standards cover sampling from the same primary sources: stockpiles, conveyor belts, bins, and transportation units (trucks/wagons).
≈The procedure for sampling from a moving stream or conveyor belt is highly consistent, involving taking at least three increments and, if stopping the belt, collecting the full cross-section of the material.
≈All standards strongly emphasize the need to avoid segregation and bias, providing similar guidance on how to access the interior of a stockpile rather than just the surface.
≈The methods for reducing the field sample to a testable size, such as mechanical splitting (riffling) and quartering, are recognized and described in conceptually identical ways across the standards.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Min. Field Sample Mass (20 mm max size)
40 kg
25 kg (50 lb for 19 mm)
ASTM D75 / D75M
Min. Field Sample Mass (40 mm max size)
60 kg
60 kg (125 lb for 37.5 mm)
ASTM D75 / D75M
Min. number of increments from a stockpile
10 (for a lot of 51-150 m³)
Minimum 10 (for a lot > 100 tonnes)
BS EN 932-1
Sampling from conveyor belt
Stop the belt, insert two templates, and remove all material between them.
Stop the belt and use a template to collect the full cross-section.
ASTM D75 / D75M
Sample reduction procedure
Described within the standard (e.g., coning and quartering).
Reference to a separate standard (ASTM C702).
ASTM D75 / D75M
Terminology for combined sample
Gross Sample
Field Sample
ASTM D75 / D75M
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values5
Quick Reference Values
Min gross sample weight for 63mm max size aggregate100 kg
Min gross sample weight for 40mm max size aggregate50 kg
Min gross sample weight for 20mm max size aggregate25 kg
Min gross sample weight for 12.5mm and 10mm max size aggregate10 kg
Min gross sample weight for fine aggregate (sand)10 kg
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Minimum Weight of Gross Sample for Coarse Aggregates
Table 2 - Minimum Weight of Gross Sample for Fine Aggregates