When should tack be sampled during the unloading process?

Sampling tack oil during the unloading process is essential for ensuring the material's quality and compliance with specifications. The correct timing for sampling is when it reaches approximately one-third of the load because this point allows for a representative sample that reflects the characteristics of the entire load without being influenced by the initial conditions of the tank or the unloading process.

Taking the sample at this stage helps capture any potential variations in consistency or viscosity that may occur throughout the load, which is critical for achieving the desired performance in the asphalt mix.

In contrast, sampling when it is completely unloaded may not provide an accurate representation of the entire load's properties, especially if there are changes in the material's characteristics during the unloading process. Sampling immediately upon arrival may also not accurately reflect the material being unloaded since the tack could have settled or shifted during transport. Sampling before unloading starts would be wholly inappropriate, as it does not provide insight into the actual material being delivered and used on-site. Thus, sampling at the one-third mark strikes a balance between thoroughness and practicality, ensuring quality control measures are effectively met.