Is it acceptable to use a small scoop to sample the Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) in the haul unit?

Using a small scoop to sample Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) from the haul unit is not acceptable because it can lead to inaccurate and unrepresentative samples. Sampling methods must ensure that the sample accurately reflects the entirety of the HMA being delivered, which a small scoop does not guarantee.

Proper sampling involves using appropriate tools and techniques designed to capture a well-mixed and representative sample. This typically includes equipment such as a larger sampling device that can extract material from multiple locations within the haul unit to account for any potential segregation or inconsistency in the mix. The integrity and reliability of test results depend heavily on the quality of the sampling process, making adherence to standardized procedures crucial for achieving accurate assessments of the HMA's properties.