ASTM E276-21

Standard Test Method for Particle Size or Screen Analysis at 4.75 mm (No. 4) Sieve and Finer for Metal-Bearing Ores and Related Materials

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is intended to be used for compliance with compositional specifications for particle size distribution. It is assumed that all who use this procedure will be trained analysts capable of performing common laboratory practices skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory and that proper waste disposal procedures will be followed. Follow appropriate quality control practices such as those described in Guide E882.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the particle size distribution by screen analysis, dry or wet, of metal-bearing ores and related materials at 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve and finer.  
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Nov-2021
• ICS: 19.120 - Particle size analysis. Sieving
• Technical Committee: E01 - Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Drafting Committee: E01.02 - Ores, Concentrates, and Related Metallurgical Materials

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E135-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM E135-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM E882-10(2016)e1 - Standard Guide for Accountability and Quality Control in the Chemical Analysis Laboratory
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2016
• Refers: ASTM E882-10(2016) - Standard Guide for Accountability and Quality Control in the Chemical Analysis Laboratory
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2016
• Refers: ASTM E135-16 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-May-2016
• Refers: ASTM E135-15a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2015
• Refers: ASTM E135-15 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-May-2015
• Refers: ASTM E135-14b - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM E135-14a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2014
• Refers: ASTM E135-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Feb-2014
• Refers: ASTM E135-13a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2013
• Refers: ASTM E11-13 - Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM E135-11b - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM E135-11a - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2011
• Refers: ASTM E135-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2011

Overview

ASTM E276-21 is the Standard Test Method for Particle Size or Screen Analysis at 4.75 mm (No. 4) Sieve and Finer for Metal-Bearing Ores and Related Materials. Developed by ASTM International, this standard provides comprehensive procedures for determining particle size distribution in metal-bearing ores and similar materials using both dry and wet sieve analysis. The method ensures accurate and reproducible results essential for compliance with compositional specifications in the mining and metallurgical industries. Proper laboratory and quality control practices are stressed throughout, aligning with international standardization principles.

Key Topics

• Scope: Covers the analysis of particle size distribution by dry or wet screening at 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve and finer for ores and related materials. The standard stresses adherence to SI units and appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices.
• Sample Preparation: Emphasizes proper size reduction, drying to constant mass, and avoiding sieve overloading. Accurate and representative sampling is critical for reliable results.
• Apparatus Requirements: Calls for standardized sieves (per ASTM E11), mechanical sieve shaker, appropriate cleaning tools, drying oven, pans, sample splitters, and calibrated scales.
• Screening Procedures:
  • Dry Screening: Utilized for materials that can be dried, avoiding sieve blinding. Samples are shaken and fractions recorded.
  • Wet Screening: Suitable for insoluble solids with fine particles or aggregates. Uses water or other nonreactive liquids to enhance separation.
• Calibration and Quality Control: Sieves are calibrated using certified glass spheres or microscopy, ensuring conformance to ASTM E11. Quality control practices per ASTM E882 are recommended.
• Reporting: Results are recorded as mass and percentage retained on each sieve, cumulative percentages, and may be presented graphically for further analysis.

Applications

The ASTM E276-21 standard is widely applied in:

• Mining Operations: Determines particle size distribution in extracted ores, supporting process optimization and regulatory compliance.
• Metallurgical Processing: Guides classification and beneficiation processes by providing consistent particle size data.
• Quality Control Laboratories: Ensures consistency, safety, and accuracy in analysis of samples for production and research.
• Regulatory Compliance: Assures conformity with industrial and compositional standards, enabling traceable, reliable reporting.
• Material Characterization: Facilitates statistical analysis of material properties essential for product development, process control, and specification compliance.

Related Standards

• ASTM E11: Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
• ASTM E29: Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data
• ASTM E135: Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
• ASTM E882: Guide for Accountability and Quality Control in the Chemical Analysis Laboratory

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM E276-21 delivers:

• Standardized, reproducible procedures for sieve analysis at 4.75 mm and finer
• Reliable particle size distribution data for metal-bearing ores and materials
• Enhanced quality control, safety, and compliance in laboratory practices
• Alignment with global trade requirements and material specifications
• Consistent data presentation for technical and regulatory reporting

By adopting this ASTM standard, organizations meet industry best practices for particle size analysis, crucial for operational efficiency, product quality, and regulatory acceptance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E276 − 21
Standard Test Method for
Particle Size or Screen Analysis at 4.75 mm (No. 4) Sieve
and Finer for Metal-Bearing Ores and Related Materials
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E276; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 3. Terminology
1.1 Thistestmethodcoversthedeterminationoftheparticle
3.1 Definitions:
size distribution by screen analysis, dry or wet, of metal-
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer
bearingoresandrelatedmaterialsat4.75mm(No.4)sieveand
to Terminology E135.
finer.
4. Summary of Test Method
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are
4.1 The sample is passed through a bank of sieves by
provided for information only and are not considered standard.
agitation. The dry screening technique described in this test
method may be used on any solid particles that can be dried so
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
thatsieveblindingdoesnotoccur.Thewetscreeningtechnique
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
using liquid media may be used on any insoluble solids.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 5. Significance and Use
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
5.1 This test method is intended to be used for compliance
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
with compositional specifications for particle size distribution.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
It is assumed that all who use this procedure will be trained
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
analysts capable of performing common laboratory practices
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
skillfully and safely. It is expected that work will be performed
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
in a properly equipped laboratory and that proper waste
disposal procedures will be followed. Follow appropriate
2. Referenced Documents
quality control practices such as those described in Guide
E882.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
6. Apparatus and Materials
Sieves
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to
6.1 Brass and Fiber Bristle Brushes, for cleaning sieves and
Determine Conformance with Specifications
pans.
E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for
6.2 Drying Oven, of appropriate size and capable of main-
Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
taining a uniform temperature at 110 °C 6 5 °C.
E882 Guide for Accountability and Quality Control in the
Chemical Analysis Laboratory
6.3 Mechanical Sieve Shaker.
6.4 Pans, for holding samples.
6.5 Sample Splitter or Riffle with 25.4 mm (1 in.) opening.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on
Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct
6.6 Scales and Weights, of adequate accuracy.
responsibility of Subcommittee E01.02 on Ores, Concentrates, and Related Metal-
lurgical Materials.
6.7 Special Apparatus, for wet screening, including deep-
Current edition approved Nov. 15, 2021. Published December 2021. Originally
approved in 1965. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as E276 – 13. DOI: frame sieves.
10.1520/E0276-21.
6.8 U.S. Standard Sieves, conforming to the requirements of
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Specification E11.
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. 6.9 Water or other liquid, for wet screening.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E276 − 21
7. Sample Preparation 10.1.4 Weighing—Remove the clamp and cover. Transfer
the contents of each sieve to a tared pan, tapping and brushing
7.1 If necessary, reduce the sample by riffling or other
the sieves to remove any lodged particles. Record the mass of
suitablemeanstoobtainatestsamplethatwillnotoverloadthe
each sieve fraction.
sieves, and dry at 110 °C 6 5 °C to constant mass. Constant
10.1.4.1 Weigh and record the mass of the material washed
mass is obtained when an additional hour drying at 110 °C 6
on a 75 µm (No. 200) sieve, as described in 10.1.2 and
5 °C does not cause a change greater than 0.05 % mass.
submitted to wet screening as described in 10.2, the same as in
the other sieves.
NOTE 1—The size of the sample is very important in sieve analysis
because the number of particles on a sieve surface affects the probability
10.1.5 Calculation—Sum the masses of each of the sieve
of any one particle passing through the sieve at a given time. The more
fractions. The total shall be within 1 % of the mass of the
particles there are on a sieve, the greater probability that any one particle
original test sample or the analysis must be repeated from 7.1
is hindered from getting into a position to pass through the opening.
with another test sample. The mass of the test sample used for
7.2 Screen the test sample from 7.1 on a 4.75 mm (No. 4)
calculation is the total of the sieve fractions. Calculate the
sieve. Weigh the material retained on the sieve. Record mass.
percent retained on each sieve as follows:
Material retained,% 5 ~W /W ! 3100 (1)
r t
8. Preparation of Apparatus
where:
8.1 Clean coarse sieves up to 180 µm (No. 80) with a soft
W = mass retained on each sieve, and
r
brass wire brush and clean the finer sieves with a fiber brush.
W = total mass of all sieve fractions.
t
Clean by brushing the under side of the sieves. Gently tap the
Calculate the percent passing the finest sieve as follows:
brass frame to aid in freeing trapped particles.At times, it may
be necessary to wash the sieves in a warm soap and water
Material passing,% 5 ~W /W ! 3100 (2)
p t
solution. After washing, dry the sieves thoroughly. If wet
where:
screening is used, nest selected special deep-frame sieves after
W = mass passing the finest sieve, retained on a pan or
cleaning as described.
p
filter, and
NOTE 2—Alternatively, ultrasonic cleaning of sieves is recommended.
W = total mass of all sieve fractions.
t
10.1.5.1 Rounding of test results obtained using this test
9. Calibration of Sieves
method shall be performed as directed in Practice E29,
9.1 Calibrate the sieves by use of calibrated glass spheres.
Rounding Method, unless an alternative rounding method is
These glass spheres are available from National Institute of
specified by the customer or applicable material specification.
Standards and Technology (NIST) and other international
Obtain the percent cumulative by adding each percent
standardization organizations.
retained on each sieve as the series progresses.
10.1.6 Report:
9.2 Use of the microscopic method in the appendix of
10.1.6.1 Reportthefollowingdata:sievesize,massretained
Specification E11 is also permissible to assure that the sieves
on or passing through sieve, percent retained on sieve, and
are calibrated.
percent cumulative.
10.1.6.2 Present the data of a screen analysis graphically as
10. Procedure
a cumulative direct plot or a cumulative logarithmic p
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E276 − 13 E276 − 21
Standard Test Method for
Particle Size or Screen Analysis at No. 4 (4.75-mm) 4.75 mm
(No. 4) Sieve and Finer for Metal-Bearing Ores and Related
Materials
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E276; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the particle size distribution by screen analysis, dry or wet, of metal-bearing ores
and related materials at No. 4 (4.75-mm) 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve and finer.
1.2 Units—The values stated in inch-poundSI units are to be regarded as standard. The SI values given in parentheses after SI units
are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
E29 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications
E135 Terminology Relating to Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials
E882 Guide for Accountability and Quality Control in the Chemical Analysis Laboratory
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer to Terminology E135.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E01 on Analytical Chemistry for Metals, Ores, and Related Materials and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee E01.02 on Ores, Concentrates, and Related Metallurgical Materials.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2013Nov. 15, 2021. Published November 2013December 2021. Originally approved in 1965. Last previous edition approved in 20082013
ε1
as E276 – 03 (2008)E276 – 13. . DOI: 10.1520/E0276-13.10.1520/E0276-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E276 − 21
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 The sample is passed through a bank of standard sieves by agitation. The dry screening technique described in this test method
may be used on any solid particles that can be dried so that sieve blinding does not occur. The wet screening technique using liquid
media may be used on any insoluble solids.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is intended to be used for compliance with compositional specifications for particle size distribution. It is
assumed that all who use this procedure will be trained analysts capable of performing common laboratory practices skillfully and
safely. It is expected that work will be performed in a properly equipped laboratory and that proper waste disposal procedures will
be followed. Follow appropriate quality control practices such as those described in Guide E882.
6. Apparatus and Materials
6.1 U.S. Standard Sieves, Brass and Fiber Bristle Brushes, conforming to the requirements of Specification for cleaning sieves
and pans.E11.
6.2 Mechanical Sieve Shaker.
6.2 Drying Oven, of appropriate size and capable of maintaining a uniform temperature at 110 °C 6 5 °C.110 °C 6 5 °C.
6.3 Mechanical Sieve Shaker.
6.4 Pans, for holding samples.
6.5 Sample Splitter or Riffle with 1-in. (25.4-mm)25.4 mm (1 in.) opening.
6.6 Scales and Weights, of adequate accuracy.
6.6 Pans, for holding samples.
6.7 Brass and Fiber Bristle Brushes, for cleaning sieves and pans.
6.7 Special Apparatus, for wet screening, including deep-frame sieves.
6.8 U.S. Standard Sieves, conforming to the requirements of Specification E11.
6.9 Water or other liquid, for wet screening.
7. Sample Preparation
7.1 If necessary, reduce the sample by riffling or other suitable means to obtain a test sample that will not overload the sieves, and
dry at 110 °C 6 5 °C to constant mass. Constant mass is obtained when an additional hour drying at 110 °C 6 5 °C does not cause
a change greater than 0.05 % mass.
NOTE 1—The size of the sample is very important in sieve analysis because the number of particles on a sieve surface affects the probability of any one
particle passing through the sieve at a given time. The more particles there are on a sieve, the greater probability that any one particle is hindered from
getting into a position to pass through the opening. Avoid overloading the sieves.
7.2 Screen the test sample from 7.1 on a No. 4 (4.75-mm) 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve. Weigh the material retained on the No. 4 sieve.
Record mass.
E276 − 21
8. Preparation of Apparatus
8.1 Clean coarse sieves up to No. 80 (180 μm) 180 μm (No. 80) with a soft brass wire brush and clean the finer sieves with a fiber
brush. Clean by brushing the under side of the sieves. Gently tap the brass frame to aid in freeing trapped particles. At times, it
may be necessary to wash the sieves in a warm soap and water solution. After washing, dry the sieves thoroughly. If wet screening
is to be used, nest selected special deep-frame sieves after cleaning as described.
NOTE 2—As an alternative, Alternatively, ultrasonic cleaning of sieves is recommended.
9. StandardizationCalibration of Sieves
9.1 Calibrate the sieves by use of calibrated glass spheres. StandardThese glass spheres are available through the from National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and other international standardization organizations.
9.2 Use of the microscopic method in the appendix of Specification E11 is also permissible to assure that the sieves meet
specification.are calibrated.
10. Procedure
10.1 Dry Screening:
10.1.1 For Samples Containing Less than 10 % Passing a No. 200 (75-μm) 75 μm (No. 200) Sieve—Nest the selected sieves and
fit a pan below the bottom sieve. Place the material which passed the No. 4 (4.75-mm) 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve from 7.2, in the
top sieve. Cover and clamp the nested sieves in the mechanical shaker and shake for the time interval specified in 10.1.3.
10.1.2 For Samples Containing More than 10 % Passing a No. 200 (75-μm) 75 μm (No. 200) Sieve—Wash the material which
passed the No. 4 (4.75-mm) 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve from 7.2 on a No. 200 (75-μm) 75 μm (No. 200) sieve until the solution passing
through the sieve is clear (see 10.2). Save the material passing the sieve. Dry the sieve fractions in accordance with 10.2.4.2 and
process the retained fraction in accordance with 10.1.1.
10.1.3 Length of Screening Time or End Point—The screening time or end point is when additional periods of shaking fail to
change the results on any sieve used in the test by more than 0.3 %. The screening time may vary from 3 min to 30 min or
more3 min to 30 min, or more, depending on the type of material. Determine the exact time for each material experimentally.
10.1.4 Weighing—Remove the clamp and cover. Transfer the contents of each sieve to a tared pan, tapping and brushing the sieves
to remove any lodged particles. Record the mass of each sieve fraction.
10.1.4.1 Weigh and record the mass of the material washed on a No. 200 (75-μm) 75 μm (No. 2
...