Patent ID: 8020459
Filing Date: 2011-09-20
Classification: E21B,G01N

Abstract:
1. A sampling apparatus comprising: at least one distribution element for distributing a flow of material so that distributed material falls from an external periphery of said distribution element; one or more sampling ports for collecting a sample from the distributed flow of material; a material inlet, for material to be sampled, which is positioned so that a flow of material falls onto the at least one distribution element; wherein at least one sampling port is positioned relative to said distribution element so that said distributed material can fall freely from the distribution element into the sampling port, said at least one sampling port being moveable in a substantially circular path in the distributed flow in order to collect the sample; wherein, in use, at least one sampling port has a container associated therewith which moves with the sampling port and which receives and retains the sample collected by the said sampling port; and wherein said at least one distribution element is tapered and increases in girth from top to bottom.