MingShen Science ZY/TF3 Stainless Steel Short-Handle Sampling Scoop
| Brand | MingShen Science |
|---|---|
| Origin | Henan, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | ZY/TF3 |
| Blade Material | 201 Stainless Steel (default), optional 304 SS |
| Blade Dimensions (L×W×T) | 120 mm × 90 mm × 50 mm |
| Handle Length | 150 mm |
| Handle Material | 201 Stainless Steel |
| Blade Tip | Flat (square-edged) |
| Compliance | ASTM D75, ISO 13909, GB/T 2007.1–2018 |
Overview
The MingShen Science ZY/TF3 Stainless Steel Short-Handle Sampling Scoop is a precision-engineered manual sampling tool designed for representative solid material collection and subsampling in industrial quality control, geological surveying, metallurgical processing, and laboratory sample preparation workflows. Based on the fundamental principle of mechanical bulk sampling—where consistent scoop geometry, controlled insertion depth, and reproducible handling minimize bias—the ZY/TF3 adheres to internationally recognized sampling theory frameworks including Gy’s sampling equation and the principles outlined in ISO 13909 (Coal and Coke — Sampling) and ASTM D75 (Standard Practice for Sampling Aggregates). Its compact short-handle configuration (150 mm) enables precise maneuverability in confined spaces such as conveyor belt chutes, sample bins, laboratory hoppers, or analytical crucibles, while maintaining ergonomic control during repetitive scooping cycles.
Key Features
- Robust one-piece construction from 201 stainless steel (standard), with optional 304 stainless steel for enhanced corrosion resistance in humid, saline, or chemically aggressive environments.
- Flat-edged (square-tip) blade geometry ensures clean, non-shearing contact with granular or powdered materials—critical for preserving particle size distribution integrity during transfer.
- Optimized blade dimensions (120 mm × 90 mm × 50 mm) balance volumetric capacity (~45–60 mL nominal fill volume for dry, free-flowing materials) with mechanical stability and operator fatigue reduction.
- Short handle (150 mm length) provides high tactile feedback and spatial control, minimizing wrist torque and supporting GLP-compliant manual sampling protocols requiring documented technique consistency.
- Smooth, burr-free surface finish (Ra ≤ 0.8 µm) prevents material adhesion and facilitates rapid cleaning between samples—essential for cross-contamination prevention in multi-analyte workflows.
- Non-magnetic properties (inherent to austenitic stainless steels) ensure compatibility with magnetic separation steps and eliminate interference in subsequent instrumental analysis (e.g., XRF, ICP-OES).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ZY/TF3 is validated for use with heterogeneous solid matrices including iron ore sinter and pellets, coal lumps and fines, limestone aggregates, chemical catalysts, pharmaceutical granules, soil composites, and metallurgical slags. It conforms to sampling protocol requirements specified in ISO 13909-2 (Mechanical sampling of coal), ASTM D75-22 (Sampling of aggregates), and GB/T 2007.1–2018 (Methods for sampling of mineral ores). While not an automated device, its dimensional repeatability and material traceability support audit readiness under ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 7.6 (Traceability of measurements) when integrated into documented sampling SOPs. No calibration certificate is issued; however, dimensional verification reports (via CMM or optical comparator) can be provided upon request for QA/QC validation.
Software & Data Management
As a manually operated passive sampling tool, the ZY/TF3 does not incorporate embedded electronics, firmware, or software interfaces. Its integration into digital quality systems occurs at the procedural level: users log scoop identity (e.g., “ZY/TF3-042”), usage frequency, cleaning records, and associated sample IDs within LIMS or ELN platforms (e.g., LabWare, Thermo Fisher SampleManager). Traceability is maintained through physical asset tagging and alignment with 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic records where manual entries are authenticated and time-stamped. No firmware updates, driver installation, or cloud connectivity are applicable.
Applications
- Routine subsampling of bulk iron ore shipments prior to X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or wet chemistry assays.
- Field-based grab sampling of coal seams or stockpile cross-sections per ASTM D2013 practice.
- Preparation of homogenized reference sub-samples for round-robin interlaboratory testing (ILS) under ISO 5725.
- Cleaning and residue removal from grinding jars, sieves, and sample dividers in ISO 17025-accredited mineral labs.
- Controlled powder transfer in GMP-compliant pharmaceutical R&D settings where stainless steel tools are mandated per USP .
- Geological core splitting and quartering in exploration drilling campaigns compliant with AS/NZS 4310:2017.
FAQ
Is the ZY/TF3 compliant with FDA or GMP requirements for pharmaceutical use?
Yes—when fabricated from 304 stainless steel and used within validated SOPs, it meets material suitability criteria in USP and EU GMP Annex 15 for sampling equipment in non-sterile manufacturing environments.
Can this scoop be sterilized using autoclaving?
201 stainless steel is not recommended for repeated autoclaving (>121°C, saturated steam); 304 stainless steel variants are suitable for up to 50 cycles under standard hospital-grade autoclave protocols.
What documentation accompanies the product?
A Certificate of Conformance (CoC) stating material grade, dimensions, and compliance with GB/T 2007.1–2018 is supplied. Material test reports (MTRs) per ASTM A240 are available on request.
How often should the scoop be inspected for wear or deformation?
Visual inspection is required before each use per ISO/IEC 17025 Section 6.4.1; dimensional verification is recommended quarterly or after 500 operational cycles.
Is there a version with a longer handle for belt sampling?
Yes—the ZY/TF3 is part of a modular series; the long-handle variant (ZY/TF3-L, 600 mm handle) complies with ASTM D975 for continuous belt sampling applications.
