By WoodPelletCN · Published and revised · Business contact: Jasmine Li
Document the sample
Record the batch, sampling location, time, packaging condition and test method. Keep the sample representative rather than selecting a few visually dry pellets.
Protect the fuel
Agree suitable packaging, dry handling and storage requirements with the supplier and your site team. Inspect deliveries for damaged packaging and visible moisture before acceptance.
Use the right energy value
Use as-received NCV in the fuel-cost tool. The tool does not estimate heating value from moisture alone and does not subtract moisture twice.
Agree the sample at each handover
| Point | Record before comparison |
|---|---|
| Loading | Batch, sample date, method, person taking the sample and packaging condition. |
| Receipt | Shipment reference, sampling time, observed damage and any wet areas. |
| Storage / use | Storage interval, handling history and any change since receipt; keep this result distinct from loading data. |
If packaging arrives damaged
- Photograph and identify affected packs without calling appearance a laboratory result.
- Record the condition before mixing affected material into normal stock.
- Notify the parties responsible under the agreed delivery and inspection terms.
- Agree representative sampling, testing and the acceptance decision; do not select only the driest-looking pieces.
Separate measurement from acceptance
ISO 18134-1 describes a reference moisture method; its as-received result uses the total sample mass as the basis. Your purchase agreement still needs a sampling point and an agreed limit. A visual inspection can trigger investigation but cannot replace the stated test.
Plan storage with a competent site team. HSE identifies carbon-monoxide and oxygen-depletion risks in enclosed pellet stores; do not enter a hopper or silo to collect a sample without the site’s qualified confined-space procedure.
Sources and scope
Official references below explain the relevant method or scope. Our purchasing worksheets and illustrative calculations are not batch results, certification or equipment approval.
Your next purchasing step
Review the wood pellet quotation checklist and compare two fuels at equal useful heat.