Overview
ISO 11093-1:1994, "Paper and board - Testing of cores - Part 1: Sampling", specifies a standardised method for obtaining a representative sample of a lot of cores (spool cores, paperboard cores) for downstream testing. Based on ISO 186:1994, the standard defines how to select, handle and document specimens so that test results reliably reflect the lot’s quality.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope: Applies to sampling of cores taken from packaged units within a lot to form test specimens.
- Definitions: Clear terms for lot, specimen, sample, test piece, and selected at random to ensure consistent interpretation.
- Sampling principle: Cores are selected at random from packaged units; selected items are subdivided and mixed to produce a representative sample for testing.
- Number of specimens: Prescribes minimum specimen counts by lot size (examples from the standard):
- Up to 99 cores: 5 specimens
- 100 to 499 cores: 10 specimens
- 500 and more cores: 20 specimens
- Note: If less than 50% of the total is available for sampling, the sampling is invalid unless otherwise agreed.
- Precautions for handling: Protect specimens from harmful influences such as direct sunlight, large climatic fluctuations, liquids, etc., to avoid altering test outcomes.
- Marking and identification: Specimens and test pieces must be indelibly marked so each can be identified unambiguously (sampling report number, sampler signature).
- Re-sampling rules: If sampling is invalidated by accident, re-sampling must follow the same method and, except in special cases, may not be taken from the same packaged units.
- Sampling report: Required contents include reference to ISO 11093-1, type/designation, place/date/signature of sampler, number of specimens/test pieces, and any deviations from the method.
Applications and users
- Quality control and laboratory personnel in the paper, board and packaging industries conducting core testing (e.g., dimensional, moisture, mechanical properties).
- Manufacturers and suppliers of spool cores and paperboard cores to ensure lot traceability and compliance.
- Procurement and inspection teams who need reliable, standardised sampling procedures for acceptance testing.
- Accredited test laboratories producing results for certification, R&D, or contractual dispute resolution.
Related standards
- ISO 11093 (series) - other parts cover conditioning, moisture determination (oven drying), dimensional measurements, concentric rotation characteristics, dynamic cleavage, flat crush resistance.
- ISO 186:1994 - general sampling to determine average quality (basis for this part).
Keywords: ISO 11093-1, core sampling, paper cores, spool cores, sampling method, specimen numbers, lot sampling, core testing standard.
