How to Select Sampling Tools

Use the right tools for collecting samples for accurate results.

Sampling tools are needed for collecting solids, powders, particulates, semi-solids, and liquid samples. They are used for chemical analysis, quality testing, and microbiological testing in a variety of industries including pharma, biotech, food and agriculture, chemical, industrial, and healthcare. Sample collection best practices suggest that improperly collected samples will provide inadequate results. The correct tool for the job helps ensure accurate results.

It can be confusing to locate the right tool because a variety of manufacturers place the various tool types into different categories. Knowing the types of samples being collected makes it easier to drill down to exactly what’s needed.

Cole-Parmer categorizes sampling tools within these categories:

General sampling tools for laboratory and industrial use

This category includes scoops, spoons, scrapers, and funnels as they tend to work with either liquid or powder samples. In some cases, they work with both.

Scoops are designed for efficient collection of bulk materials, while spoons allow for precise sampling of smaller quantities. Scrapers are useful for collecting residual samples from surfaces, optimizing material recovery. Funnels aid in directing samples into containers without spills, enhancing workflow efficiency. Together, these tools support accurate and reliable sample handling across various applications.

Best powder sampling tools for accurate sampling

Specific tools for powder sampling are vital for obtaining accurate and representative samples. Slot and grain samplers go deep into bulk materials to return specifically targeted samples or a representation from multiple layers. Powder sample collectors provide a reliable means to gather fine powders with minimal loss. Powder lances facilitate sampling from hard-to-reach areas, ensuring comprehensive material analysis. Finally, powder spatulas are essential for precise transfer and manipulation of powdered samples. Together, these tools help maintain sample integrity and accuracy in various analytical applications.
An example of how a powder sampler collector is used is shown in Figure 1 below.

Powder sample collector in use

Figure 1. Image courtesy of Sampling Systems at sampling.com.

Liquid sampling tools

Liquid sample collectors ensure precise retrieval of aqueous samples. Viscous sample collectors are designed to handle thicker liquids, allowing for efficient sampling without compromising integrity. Ice samplers enable accurate collection of frozen samples, while ladles are ideal for gathering larger volumes of liquid. Each tool plays a vital role in maintaining sample quality and reliability.

What to consider when choosing your sampling tools

Sterile disposable vs reusable sampling tools

Disposable sampling tools should be used when there is a need to eliminate cross-contamination. All Cole-Parmer sterile, disposable sampling tools are individually packaged, and lot stamped for accurate tracing. Materials conform to FDA and EU requirements, and are safe for food, drug and cosmetic use.

Reusable tools are available in long-lasting materials such as stainless steel or PTFE and are easy to clean. They are a good alternative when trying to meet sustainability goals or when contamination concerns are not present. Select tools that are robust enough to withstand many hours of use, easy to clean, and conform to any safety requirements.

What type of samples need to be collected?

Consider the types of samples including powders/granules, liquids, and semi-solids that can be free-flowing, viscous, cohesive or sticky.

Are the samples contained within packaging?

Consider if samples need to be collected from items such as open top drums, bulk bags, or bags on a pallet. Ensure sampling tools fit exact needs to avoid spillage or having to reach and stretch too much.

What is the sampling collection method?

Will the sample be single point (one sample from a specific point) or multi-level (cross sectional powder sampling from one container)? See the difference between the single point and multi-level in Figure 2 below.

Figure 2. Image courtesy of Sampling Systems at sampling.com.

Use the chart below to easily find the type of sampling tool for your application.

Sampling Tools Selection Chart

Sampling Tool	Sample Materials							Tool Materials Available		Applications
	Powders	Particulates	Granules	Semi-Solids	Liquids	Viscous	Ice	Reusable	Disposable
Scoops	✓	✓	✓	✓				SS, aluminum, HDPE, PP, PTFE	HDPE, PS; sterile	Sampling and dispensing, pharma, food, chemical, general industry
Spoons	✓	✓	✓	✓				SS	HDPE, PS; sterile and nonsterile	Sampling and dispensing, pharma, food, chemical, general industry
Scrapers	✓	✓	✓	✓				N/A	HDPE; sterile and nonsterile	Cutting, cleaning, and general scraping. Pharma and food industry
Spatulas	✓	✓	✓	✓				SS, PP	PS; sterile	Mixing, scraping, and tasks related to transferring materials and samples from one place to another. Pharma and food industry
Funnels	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓		N/A	HDPE, PP; sterile and nonsterile	Transferring materials, general industry
Slot Samplers	✓		✓					SS, aluminum	HDPE; sterile	Taking large-volume or multi-level samples. Ideal for chemical, food, and pharma quality control
Sleeve Sampler	✓		✓					SS	N/A	Sampling volumes at great depths, pharma industry
Grain Samplers	✓		✓					Aluminum	N/A	Larger powders, granules and grain samples, food, and environmental
Powder Sample Collectors	✓	✓	✓					N/A	HDPE; sterile	Sampling bulk powders in set locations mostly used in pharma for sampling/receiving raw materials and quality control testing
Powder Lance	✓	✓	✓					N/A	HDPE; sterile and nonsterile	Taking cross-sectional samples from bulk powders and cohesive powders like flour, pharma industry
Powder Spatula	✓	✓	✓					N/A	PS; sterile	Surface and general sampling, cohesive powders like flour, pharma and food industry
Liquid Sample Collectors					✓			N/A	HDPE; sterile and nonsterile	Taking samples of liquids, thin oils, and ointments. Works like a large syringe. Pharma and food industry
Viscous Sample Collectors					✓	✓		N/A	HDPE; sterile and nonsterile	Taking viscous materials such as honey, creams, and pastes. Works like a large syringe. Pharma and food industry
Ice Samplers							✓	SS	N/A	Demanding applications like frozen products and ice sampling. Designed to fit most common drills. Used mostly in food and agriculture.
Ladles					✓			N/A	HDPE, PP; sterile	Taking samples of liquids, creams, and pastes. Commonly used in pharma, food, and chemical.