How Does the Raw Material Sample and Analysis Process Work?

Before switching an existing grade or starting to work with a new supplier, a processor typically requests a small quantity of sample. This is to verify, under real conditions, whether the material gives the expected result on their own production line (with their own mold/equipment/process parameters) — the values on a technical data sheet are a general reference, but every production line has its own specific tolerances.

Generally a small quantity (ranging from a few kilograms to a full bag) of sample is sent for trial production at the processor's own facility. The processor produces a small batch with this sample and evaluates the result against their own quality criteria (appearance, dimensions, mechanical performance).

The sample process is generally offered free of charge or for a nominal fee; this can vary for requests involving large volumes or special formulations.

The Certificate of Conformity/Analysis (CoC/CoA) that accompanies a shipment contains batch-specific measured values such as MFI and density (see the related term). Checking whether these values fall within the range stated on the technical data sheet for the ordered grade is the first and simplest step of quality assurance.

The batch/lot number should be retained because, in the event of an issue (for example, an unexpected deviation noticed in production), it allows the problem to be traced back to the specific shipment/batch it belongs to.

If you request it, we can share a sample and a current technical data sheet/CoA example for the relevant grade — especially if you are moving to a new application or switching from your current supplier, we recommend starting with a sample test.