PROCESSED PALM OIL AND PALM KERNEL OIL

STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION, SAMPLING AND SURVEY GUIDE

INTRODUCTION

Malaysia is expected to export over 8 million metric tonnes of processed palm oil and palm
kernel oil by 1995. They are produced for specific reasons; partially refined or fully refined;
lightly bleached or bleached to a very light colour; fractionated to liquid oil and high melting
fractions. Although processed palm oil and palm kernel oil produced by Malaysian manufacturers
vary widely in these aspects, they are uniform in one aspect : their excellent quality. Some of
these oils may be directly used for human consumption while others are further processed
before they are marketed as sophisticated end-products.

The processed palm oil and palm kernel oil have been processed under strict quality control
such that the oil's inherent quality and nutritive values are maintained. It is the earnest wish
of the Malaysian refiner that the oil reaches its final destination in its original quality or with as
little deterioration in quality as possible. In order to achieve this, it is absolutely essential that
all those concerned have a clear understanding of how best the processed palm oil and palm
kernel oil can be stored, transported, sampled, discharged, etc.

Unless these operations are fully understood and intelligently applied, the oil may be oxidised
due to overheating or too much exposure to atmospheric oxygen, contaminated with other oil
due to lack of segregation, pick up heavy metals by contact with such metals or alloys,
hydrolysed because of contact with moisture or solidify due to lack of heating, etc. A clear
understanding of the oil's,dlriaracteristics is also essential to ensure that the sample taken is truly
representative of the consi~nment. This· in turn is absolutely essential in reaching a decision
that is fair to both the buyer and seller.

This guide book has been prepared so as to be of help to those concerned in those aspects.

JANUARY 1994'

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 3.2 Check loading pipeline for cleanliness and ensure that the line is correctly
connected for loading.
LOADING OF REFINED OIL INTO ROAD TANKER AT LOADING
STATION 3.3 Check and ensure that all valves at the bottom of the road tanker are closed
(Special instruction : Road tanker should be dedicated to foodstuffs, including and that only the appropriate manhole covers are opened.
edible oils and their related products)
3.4 On commencement of pumping, inspect the line for any leakage and check
visually that the oil is entering the road tanker without cascading in order to
1. Inspection of road tanker minimise aeration.

1.1 The road tanker has to be presented for loading in clean and dry condition and 3.5 In the case of automatic/remote control loading operations where the oil loaded
shall be certified as being clean, dry, free from odour or residue and suitable can be pre-set on the meter, visual inspection may not be done. However, flow
to load the nominated cargo. of the oil shall be monitored by reading the meter.

1.2 There shall be no rust or dirt on any interior surface of the road tanker. 3.6 Take care to minimise aeration while pumping into the road tanker and
preferably fill to the maximum.
1.3 All manholes must have covers which can be securely tightened with provision
for security sealing. The covers should be tamper-proof on sealing. 3.7 When the road tanker is full or when the correct quantity of the oil has been
loaded, close the valve and stop the pump.
1.4 The discharge valve must be free of copper or any alloy containing copper and
be tamper proof and checked for tightness. 3.8 Take the specified number of samples from the road tanker as prescribed under
Section VIII, Sub-section 6 - Methods of Sampling.
1.5 The road tanker must be weighed empty before loading the oil.
3.9 Close the manhole covers and seal them.
1.6 The reinforced flexible hose and fittings used for loading should particularly be
checked for their cleanliness and they should be in good condition. 3.10 Seal all valves and manholes and record serial numbers of seals in the delivery
order for each road tanker.
1. 7 Air vent should be at the highest point of the road tanker and should be closed
with a fine mesh wire gauze. 3.11 Weigh road tanker and record weight in the delivery order.

3.12 Fill all relevant particulars in the delivery order and give instructions as to exact
2. Information to be provided by the loading station destination, delivery, etc. of the load.

2.1 Identify the correct tank from which the oil is to be pumped.

2.2 Ensure that the oil in the tank is of the specified type and quality to be pumped
as per written instructions.

3. Pumping into road tanker

_;,;,t..--'1--'

3.1 Check and ensure temperature is within the specified temperature range
(Appendix 1).

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 ·'

I. RECEIPT OF REFINED OIL BY DEDICATED ROAD TANKER AT 3.6 Check and ensure that provisions are made for measurement of temperatures
and stock.
UNLOADING STATION
3.7 For oil entering from the top of the tank a drop line should be provided to avoid
excessive splashing which would cause aeration of the oil.
1. Inspection of road tanker

1.1 Check all relevant documents delivered by the road tanker's driver. 4. Inspection of partially-filled storage tank

1.2 Check and ensure all seals are intact and that the serial numbers of the seals 4.1 Ensure that the oil in the tank is of the specified type and quality.
correspond with those in the delivery order, otherwise, reject the tanker.
4.2 Ensure that there is sufficient capacity in the tank to receive all the oil from the
1.3 Weigh road tanker and ensure that the weight agrees with that in the delivery road tanker.
order. If there is any significant variation, inform concerned person before
proceeding further.
5. Discharge of oil

2. Inspection of pipeline 5.1 Open the manhole. Check that the oil is clear or at least pumpable. Otherwise,
inform concerned person before proceeding further. For solidified or unpumpable
2.1 Check unloading pipeline is clean and correctly connected and cleared. oil, park the road tanker in a clean and enclosed area. Check all manholes
Blowing nitrogen through it is recommended. are closed. For road tanker not fitted with heating coils, heat the tanker
externally with open steam. For tanker fitted with heating coils, heat it carefully
2.2 Check and ensure that all joints/flanges are tight. with low pressure steam. Keep checking through the manholes until the oil has
melted. Proceed as for pumpable oil.
2.3 Fittings made of copper or any alloy containing copper must not be used in any
part of the pipeline in contact with the oil. 5.2 Draw samples as prescribed under Section VIII, Sub-section 6 - Methods of
Sampling and ensure that the oil quality is satisfactory. If it is not satisfactory,
reject the tanker.
3. Inspection of empty storage tank
5.3 Check and ensure the tanks, pumps, and pipelines for their suitability and
3.1 Ensure that the capacity of the tank is sufficient to receive the oil. tightness in discharging the oil.

3.2 Tank should be clean, dry and free from odour or residue. 5.4 Having complied witH the above, pump the oil into tank. Stop pumping
immediately after the road tanker is empty.
3.3 Tank, if not of stainless steel, should be coated with approved material. If
coated, check that it is free of blisters or cracks. If found otherwise, inform the 5.5 After completion of pumping, clear pipelines by blowing nitrogen or by pigging.
concerned person before proceeding further.
5.6 Weigh empty road tanker. The difference between loaded and empty weights
3.4 Check surface of the heating coil system is clean and free from loose scales. will be the delivered oil weight.

3.5 Check and ensure that heating coil system is tight at maximum operating
pfEfSsure.

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6. Storage Ill. PUMPING FROM STORAGE TANK TO SHIP'S TANK
(Special instruction : Ensure that none of the immediate previous cargo is among the
6.1 Allow the oil to settle and determine quantity in the tank by approved methods. list given in Appendix 3)

6.2 Check and record temperatures of the oil at top, centre and bottom levels at
regular intervals. It must be maintained within the recommended range
(Appendix 2).
6.3 Heating with hot water is recommended. However, if done by steam, it should
be effected at a pressure not exceeding 1Y, bar. Automatic temperature
control is recommended.
6.4 Draw samples as prescribed under Section VIII, Sub-section 6 - Methods of
Sampling to check quality at regular intervals using approved methods and
equipment.
6.5 Prior to shipment, the oil should be heated up at a rate not exceeding 5 Deg C
in 24 hours to the recommended discharge temperature (Appendix 2).
1. Inspection of storage tank
1.1 Ascertain from written instructions, the type, quality and quantity of the oil to be
pumped.
1.2 Ascertain also from written instructions, the tank from which the oil is to be
pumped and the nominated ship's tank to receive the oil.
1.3 Measure the temperature of the oil in the storage tank and ensure that the
temperature is suitable for loading. Determine the oil quantity in the tank by
approved methods.
1.4 Take the specified number of samples as prescribed under Section VIII, Sub-
section 6 - Methods of Sampling in the presence of all the interested parties.
Label and record the relevant particulars.

2. Inspection of pipeiine

2.1 Inspect the pipelines, pumps and valves to ensure that they are clean, free of
rust, other foreign matter and odour or residue. None of the pipelines, pumps,
valves and fittings should be made of copper or any alloy containing copper.

2.2 Different pipelines should be used for different grades of oils. In the absence
of such facilities the practice of pumping with the lower grade oil after higher
grade oil should be followed (Appendix 4).

2.3 Connect pipeline. Check and ensure all flanges are tight, vents and drain out
taps are closed.

2.4 Blow pipeline with air. This will help to ensure not only that the pipeline is clear,
but also the joints are tight and that the correct connections have been made
by observing the air coming into the ship's tank.

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3. Inspection of empty ship's tank
IV. PUMPING FROM SHIP'S TANK TO STORAGE TANK I
3.1 Inspect and ensure that all inter-connecting valves of the ship's tank are closed TRANSHIPMENT VESSEL'S TANK
and sealed. (Special instruction : Ensure that none of the immediate previous cargo is among the
list given in Appendix 3) ·
3.2 For pre-loading inspection of ship's tank, refer to Section VI - SURVEY.

1. Inspection of ship's tank

4. Inspection of partially-filled ship's tank where comingling is permitted
1.1 Ascertain from written instructions, the type, quality and quantity of the oil to be
4.1 Ensure that the oil in the ship's tank is of the specified type and quality. pumped.

4.2 Ensure that there is sufficient capacity in the ship's tank to receive all the oil 1.2 Ascertain also from written instructions, the oil to be pumped from the ship's
from storage tank. tank to storage tank/transhipment vesseL Verify with ship's Captain/Chief Officer
and person-in-charge of storage tank/transhipment vessel.

5. Pumping of oil
5.1 Start pumping. Take care to minimise aeration. Immediately inspect the
pipeline and the ship's tank to ensure that there is no leakage. Check visually
that the oil is flowing into the tank.
5.2 Inspect the storage tank, pipeline and ship's tank at regular intervals for any
abnormalities. As a good practice, check regularly that the quantity of the oil
pumped into the ship's tank is according to the pump rate.
5.3 When the pumping is completed, empty the pipelines preferably by pigging.
1.3 Obtain from the ship's Chief Officer the temperature log sheet of the voyage and
ullage report. Also obtain copy of the written instructions given for the heating
of the oil and other special instructions given. Examine and compare both. If
actual procedures vary from instructions given, make written remarks.
1.4 The Chief Officer, surveyor and agent of the consignee should check the
ullage measurement of the oil in the ship's tank and also to ascertain the
quantity and temperature to ensure suitability for pumping.
1.5 Take the necessary samples of the oil as per sampling procedure, from ship's
tank in the presence of all interested parties.

5.4 Check and record the quantity of the oil in the storage tank and the ship's tank.
Take the specified number of samples from the ship's tank in the presence of
all interested parties as prescribed under Section VIII, Sub-section 6 - Methods
of Sampling.
2.
5.5 Close and seal all the valves, openings and outlets of the ship's tank. Record
the serial number of the seals in the relevant documents.
1.6 The surveyor should ascertain from the ship's Master the working pressure of
ship's pumps and that pumping line can withstand the pumping pressure.
Inspection of pipeline
2.1 Inspect the pipelines, pumps and valves to ensure that they are clean, free of
rust, other foreign matter and odour or residue. None of the pipelines, pumps,
valves and fittings should be made of copper or any alloy containing copper.

2.2 Connect pipeline. Check and ensure all flanges are tight, vents and drain out
taps are closed.

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 2.3 Blow pipeline with air. This will help to ensure not only that the pipeline is clear,
but also that the joints are tight and that the correct connections have been
made by observing the air coming out from the drain valve closest to the storage 5. Inspection of transhipment vessel's tank
tank but with the inlet valve of the storage tank fully closed to avoid blowing air
into the oil. 5.1 For pre-loading inspection of transhipment vessel's tank, refer to Section
VI- SURVEY.

3. Inspection of empty storage tank

6.
3.1 Ensure that the capacity of the storage tank is sufficient to receive the oil.
3.2 Storage tank should be clean, dry, and free from odour or residue.
3.3 Storage tank should preferably be of stainless steel or coated with approved
materials. If coated, check that it is free of blisters or cracks. If found otherwise,
inform the concerned person before proceeding further.
3.4 Check surface of the heating coil system is clean and free from loose scales.
Pumping of oil
6.1 If in doubt of pipeline cleanliness, flush at least pipeline quantity into road
tanker/transhipment vessel's slop tank, where appropriate. Flushed oil is to be
sampled separately for appropriate actions.
6.2 Start pumping. Take care to minimise aeration. Immediately inspect the
pipelines to ensure that there is no leakage and that the oil is flowing into the
correct storage tank/transhipment vessel's tank and take sample at the end of
ship's line (manifold).

3.5 Check and ensure heating coilsystem is tight at maximum operating pressure. 6.3 Inspect the storage tank/transhipment vessel's tank pipeline and ship's tank at
regular intervals for abnormalities. As a good practice, check regularly that the
3.6 Check and ensure that provisions are made for measurement of temperatures quantity of the oil pumped into the storage tank/transhipment vessel's tank is
and stock. according to the pump rate.

6.4 When the pumping is completed, empty the pipelines preferably by pigging.
3.7 For oil entering from the top of the storage tank, a drop line should be provided
to avoid excessive splashing which would cause aeration of the oil.
6.5 Check and record the quantity of the oil in the storage tank/transhipment
vessel's tank. Take the specified number of samples from the storage tank/
4. Inspection of partially-filled storage tank transhipment vessel's tank in the presence of all interested parties as prescribea
under Section VIII, Sub-section 6 - Methods of Sampling.
4.1 Ensure that the oil in the storage tank is of the specified type and quality.

4.2 Ensure that there is sufficient capacity in the storage tank to receive all the oil
from the ship's tank.

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 OIL FILLED IN STEEL DRUMS
4. Storage of filled drums
1. General Filled drums may be stored in one of the following ways :-

Very often developing markets which do not have bulk oil handling facilities buy oils 4.1 Palletised to a maximum of four per pallet stacked to two-pellet high.
in drums. These markets are also the ones that may consume the refined oil directly
without further processing and it is of paramount importance that the drums are of 4.2 Stored loose lying in a horizontal position stacked to a maximum of five-drum
suitable quality.
high.

Care must be taken to anchor both ends of the stack.

2. Types of drums

Only new, clean and tight-head steel drums are recommended for filling processed
palm oil and palm kernel oil meant for edible purposes. If lined, it must be with
approved material. The drums should be painted externally with at least one layer of
primer paint.

All lubricants used in the manufacture of the drums meant for filling edible oils must
be of edible grade.

All drums must be closed tight at the point of manufacture to prevent any ingress of
foreign matter.

3. Inspection and filling of drums

All inspections of new clean drums must be done immediately. Check and ensure
that they are clean, free of foreign matter and odour by opening the bung for visual
inspection. Check tare weight of drums to ensure it is within specifications.

Fill drums through the bung preferably from the bottom to the maximum level to
minimise aeration. Take samples as required by concerned parties. In the absence
of this, refer to Section VIII - SAMPLING (item 6.2.3.2). Fill drums to the required
weight. Immediately close the bungs.

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VI. SURVEY
1. Pre-inspection information
1.1 Information to be provided by the shipper
1.1.1 Contractual specifications and requirements.
1.1.2 Contractual quantity.
1.1.3 Any other requirements as per the sales contract and/or Letter of Credit.
1.1.4 List of metals and coating detrimental to the quality of edible oils.
1.2 Information to be provided by the Master of vessel
1.2.1 Certification of the immediate previous cargo carried into the ship's tanks.
It should not be among the list given in Appendix 3.
1.2.2 Certification that the ship's tank loading pipelines, loading valves and
heating coils do not have any parts, fittings or other equipment made of
copper or any alloy containing copper which are detrimental to the quality
of edible oils.
1.2.3 Certification regarding tightness of the ship's tanks, lines and valves and
heating coils.
1.2.4 Certification regarding cleanliness of the ship' tanks, pipelines and
pumps and their suitability for the carriage of edible oils.
1.2.5 Certification that all the ship's tanks nominated for loading edible oils are
gas-free.
1.2.6 Certification of the types of coatings in the ship's tanks to be used for the
carriag? of edible oils.
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2. Guidelines for inspection of ship's tanks
Upon obtaining the relevant information as outlined under Sub-section. 1 ab~ve, the
surveyor proceeds to inspect the tanks, pipelines and pumps at accessible po1nts and
also checks the tightness of the heating coils.
2.1 Tank surfaces
Inspection of the tanks is to be carried out by the surveyor as far .as visually
possible without staging and with particular attenti?n to platf?rms, stnng~rs, web
surfaces, frames, suction area and areas not easily accessible to cleamng. The
surveyor should also ensure that the tanks are free of :-
2.1.1 Water, sediments and residues of previous cargoes.
2.1.2 Odour of any previous cargo detrimental to the quality of edible oils.
2.1. 3 Rust and loose scales.
2.1.4 Fittings made of copper or any alloy containing copper and any other
metals detrimental to the quality of edible oils.
2.2 Tank coatings
2.2.1 Tanks to carry refined oils should be of stainless steel or coated with
approved materials. If such tanks are not available, the Principals should
be notified.
2.2.2 The surveyor should check that the coating is in good condition.
Particular attention should be paid to exposed undercoatings, as well as
blistered and soft coatings. If the surveyor finds the coating to be in an
unsatisfactory condition, the Principals must be notified immediately.
2.2.3 In the case of uncoated mild steel tanks, special reference must be made
in the surveyor's report on the cleanliness and suitability of the tank
surfaces. The Principals must be notified prior to certification of such
tanks for the carriage of edible oils.
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 2.3 Manifolds/Pipelines/Pumps.
VII. HEATING PROCEDURES
The surveyor should ~nsure that the following operational precautions HEATING INSTRUCTlONS FOR CARRIAGE OF CRUDE I
ha~e be_en duly taken pnor to the tanks being considered ready for loading PROCESSED PALM OIL AND PALM KERNEL OIL PRODUCTS IN
ed1ble o1ls.
BULK
1. Shippers must ensure that the temperature of the oil is within the recommended
2.3.1 To crack open tank valves and blow through with air; to check for sludge range when pumping into the ship's tank. The recommended temperatures are given
and water at ~II accessible points, including the lines, in which there may in Appendix 5.
be accumulation of water after de-ballasting.
2. On arrival at destination, the ship's Master must provide the receiver or his
2.3.2 To open pump ~uction fil_ters and check for residual oil which may be
representative a record of the oil's temperatures from time of loading to time of
collected .In the filter hous~ng. The filter should be internally free of water arrival.
a~d. pr~v1ous proo_ucts. Any evidence of adhering sludge/foreign matter
Will 1nd1cate ~hat pipelines ?re perhaps dirty. Re-flushing of lines should 3. Heating of oil during the voyage
then be earned out. The lines and filters should be re-inspected after
such re-flushing. 3.1 For tanks with heating coils
2.3.3 If. pipelines and p~mps cannot be inspected due to their being
3.1.1 Ship's coils must be completely covered by the oil on completion of
ut1l1sed fo~ de-ballasting or other purposes, an appropriate remark should loading.
be ~ad_e In the surveyor's report. The Master's Certificate of Cleanliness
of p1pel1nes and pumps should then be accepted and claused accordingly. 3.1.2 · Heating shall be effected by hot water or, if this is not available, by low·
pressure steam not exceeding 1% bar.
2.4 Heating coils
3.1.3 During the voyage the oil must be maintained within temperature range
as prescribed in Appendix 5.
To check the tightness of the heating coils at full working pressure.
3.1.4 In sufficient time before arrival at port of discharge the temperature of the
2.4.1 Survey~rs to m.ention in their survey reports the type of metal oil must be increased to the recommended discharge temperature as
from wh1ch the co1ls are manufactured. This information is to be provided prescribed in Appendix 5. The rate of increase in temperature must not
by the ship's Master. exceed 5 Deg C per 24 hours.

2.4.2 Heating coils must not be made of copper or any alloy containing copper. 3.1.5 Top and bottom temperatures should be maintained as closely as
possible and should not exceed 3 Deg C for different parts of the tank.

3.1.6 The temperatures referred to in item 3.1.4 above (3re the average of
top, middle and bottom readings. The top reading is to be taken at
about 300 mm below the surface of the oil. The bottom readings are
to be taken as follows :-

3.1.6.1 In tanks which have bottom coils at 300 mm above level of the
coils.

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 3.1.6.2 In tanks which have side coils but no bottom coils, at a point 600
mm from the bottom of the tank and about 300 mm from the side
VIII. SAMPLING
coils.
3.1. 7 The discharge temperatures indicated in Appendix 5 are applicable under
normal conditions prevailing at port of discharge. In the event of
abnormal conditions (such as extremely low ambient
temperatures) the receiver, or his appointed representative, may instruct
the shipowner to vary the temperature. Details of any such variations
must be duly recorded and advised to shipper or his representative. If
there is more than one receiver of the oil from the ship's tank :-
3.1.7.1 All receivers from that tank must agree to the recommended
range of temperatures stated in Appendix 5.
3.1. 7.2 Shipper's representative at port of discharge shall endea-
vour to reconcile requirements of the individual receivers.
3.2 For tanks with heat exchangers
All instructions under Sub-section 3.1 above are applicable except that item
3.1.1 will not apply and under item 3.1.6 the bottom temperature should be taken
300 mm above tank bottom.
3.3 Bulk oils not requiring heating until immediately prior to discharge
If the temperature of the oil is below the figure prescribed in Appendix 5, the oil
must be heated prior to discharge at not more than 5 Deg C per 24 hours to
reach the required discharge temperature.
3.4 Bulk oils shipped in tanks by vessels whose voyages by sea or inland
waterways do not exceed 5 days
The oil must be loaded at a temperature which will enable the discharge
temperature to be reached by raising the temperature of the oil at the rate not
exceeding 5 Deg C per 24 hours.
4. Maximum/minimu.m temperatures given are very wide and is chosen so as to cover
the wide range of products which differ substantially in melting characteristics. The
shipper knowing the specifications of his products is expected to stipulate the
temgg~ature suitable for his product. For instance, minimum temperature is to be
specified if the stearin is of "soft" type and higher temperature if it is of "hard" type.
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Correct sampling is a difficult process and one that requires most careful. attention.
Sampling should be done in such a way that the sample represents. the cons1gnment or
a quantity as accurately as possible so that, in case of contractual .d1~pute or settlement,
the validity of the sample in question is accepted. ~ons.eque.ntly, 1t IS reco~mended to
follow as closely as possible, the procedures given 1n th1s gu1de book ..special care has
to be taken to ensure that the sampling is carried out in accordance w1th sales contract
requirements.
1. Scope
This procedure describes methods for the drawing an.d prepari.ng of. sa.mples from
consignments of processed palm oil and palm kernel 011 and t~e1r .denvat1ves: It also
describes some of the apparatus used for this purpose. The objeCtive of draw1ng and
preparing samples is to obtain a manageable qua.ntity of oil from a consign~ent, the
properties of which correspond as closely as possible to the average properties of the
consignment sampled.
2. General
The methods of drawing samples described are intended as directives for experts and
to be used for consignment in bulk, consignments consisting of a number of packages
and units from those consignments.
3. Definitions
3.1 Consignment, also to be described as 'parcel' or 'lot' : an identified quantity
of product.
3.2 Sub-consignment : that part of a consignment that is received or disputed at one
time.
3.3 Package/unit : that part of a consignment that is packed separately.
3.4 Average sample : a sample of which the properties correspond as closely as
possible to the average properties of the consignment sampled.
3.5 Sub-sample : an average sample of quantity of a consignment. This quantity
can not only be a package unit but also any quantity taken from a tank.
3.6 Part sample : an average sample of a sub-consignment.
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 3. 7 Bulk sample : an average sample composed of various part samples, proportional
to the quantities they represent.
3.8 Quality sample : an average sample of a consignment for contract purpose. In
many. cases the quality sample is also called a contract or parcel sample. The
quant1ty of sample shall be a minimum of 0.25 litre but in any case sufficient for
analysis and/or arbitration purposes.
3.9 'Apparent density' sample [The term "Apparent Density" is also referred to as
"mass per volume (litre weight in air)"] : a sample specially drawn at the point
where volumetric determination of weight is to be made.
Note
Should contamination be suspected, the minimum quantity of the sample shall
be 0.5 litre.
4. Apparatus and auxiliary equipment
4.1 Apparatus
4.1.1 Material
Sampling instruments should be made of a material which does not have
any chemical reaction with the oil or fat tieing sampled. Stainless steel
aluminium, glass and food-grade plastic materials compatible with oil~
are suitable.Copper or any alloy containing copper should not be used.
Warning
When glass equipment is used, great care should be taken to avoid
breakages to prevent physical contamination of the sample with broken
glass. When using plastics the softening temperature should not be too
close to the temperature of the material sampled.
4.1.2 Types of apparatus
Sampling apparatus exists in many forms and variations and the
instruments described in this procedure are to be regarded as examples.
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With these instruments the methods of sampling described in this guide
book can be well executed.The measurements and/or volume indicated
in the figures are guides for the sampler. Generally, sampling apparatus
consists of cans, or bottles, tubes, siphons and buckets.
4.2 Auxiliaries
4.2.1 Temperature gauges, measuring tapes, etc.
Warning : Gauges containing mercury should not be used. Temperature
gauges should not be introduced directly into the tank but on samples
collected.
4.2.2 Containers for samples should be bottles with suitable air-tight screw-on
caps and wide-necked and preferably made of dark-coloured glass or
food-grade plastic materials compatible with oils.
4.2.3 Cleaning equipment.
4.2.4 Adhesive labels, tie-on corks, stoppers, screw lids, tools and material for
sealing.
4.2.5 The size of the intermediate section (Figure 1) used for sampling from
pipelines should be of the same size as the pipeline.
5. General directives for sampling
5.1 Perform all sampling operations with clean hands or with clean plastic/cotton
gloves.
5.2 Use only clean, dry appl:!ratus and packing materials. Wash the apparatus with
warm water and soap or some other washing agent and afterwards rinse
thoroughly with clean hot water. If steam is available hold the washed
apparatus in a jet of steam for a short time; this is particularly recommended
when sampling processed palm oil, palm kernel oil or fat, where assessing
smell and flavour is important.
5.3 Make sure during sampling, and thereafter, that the samples drawn and all the
sampling apparatus are protected from the weather, such as rain, dust, etc.
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 5.4 Remove all materials from the outside of the sampling apparatus before
emptying it. If the sampling equipment is lowered into the tank by a rope, take
care that no material from the rope contaminates the sample.
5.5 Unless otherwise agreed, the material should have the temperature as indicated
in Appendix 1.
5.6 If the product to be sampled is to be heated for homogeneity or if the samples
taken are to be heated and mixed, the maximum temperatures as indicated in
Appendix 1 may not be exceeded, unless otherwise agreed by participants.
6. Methods of sampling
6.1 Sampling consignments in bulk
Before drawing samples it should be ascertained for what purpose the sample
is intended for; afterwards it is necessary to ensure whether the material is liquid
and homogeneous. Depending on this, certain measures for homogenisation
can be taken keeping in mind the influence on the material. Having taken
preparatory measures, sampling should be carried out immediately.
6.1.1 Preparatory measures
If necessary, the following measures are taken :-
6.1.1.1 Gradual heating of the material, according to the temperatures
mentioned in Appendix 5.
6.1.1.2 Blowing inert gas such as nitrogen.
6.1.1. 3 Running off free water.
6.1.1.4 Stirring the material.
6.1.1.5 Transferring the material to another tank.
6.1.1.6 Ascertaining the contents and in the case· of non- homogeneity,
ascertaining the deviating zone.
6.1.2 Sampling from vertical cylindrical land tanks
.~ 6.1.2.1 The material is homogeneous
- 22 -
Take a sub-sample from 1/10 depth of the contents level, one
from the middle and one from 9/10 depth of the level. Prepare the
average sample by mixing one part of each level. Any one of the
sampling instruments described in Figure 2, 3 and 4 may be used,
where appropriate.
6.1.2.2 The material is non-homogeneous.
Take a sample from top to bottom every 300 mm until the
deviating zone is reached. Take extra sub-samples from the
deviating zone including a bottom sample. From these extra
sub-samples, including the bottom sample, an average sampl~ of
the deviating zone is composed. Any one of the sampling
instruments described in Figure 2, 3 and 4 may be used, where
appropriate.
Prepare the average sample of the total tank content by mixing
proportionally the sub-samples and the average sample of the
deviating zone.
6.1.3 Sampling from ship's tank
The shape and disposition of ship's tanks make it difficult to obtain a
representative sample unless extreme care is taken.
6.1.3.1 The material is homogeneous
Take sub-samples and compose proportionally the average
sample as indicated under item 6.1.2.1.
6.1.3.2 The material is non-homogeneous
Take sub-samples and compose proportionally the average sample
as indicated under item 6.1.2.2.
6.1.4 Sampling from horizontal cylindrical tanks
6.1.4.1 The material is homogeneous
Take sub-samples from the zones 1,2,3.4 and 5 as indicated in
the left column of Figure 5 as far as the material is present in
these zones.
- 23 -
 !f o~ly a part o!
a zone is sampled, calculate from the diagram
1nF1gure 5 wh1ch part of the sub-sample is to be used for the
average sample. Compose the average sample according to the
comparative area in the column at the right of the diagram.
6.1.4.2 The material is non-homogeneous
Take sub-samples from the zones 1,2,3,4 and 5 as indicated in
the left column of Figure 5 as far as the material is present in
these zones.
Take from the deviating zone extra sub-samples and compose
a sample representing this zone.
The quantity for extra sub-sample may be read from Figure 5. If
only a part of a zone is sampled, calculate from the diagram in
Figure 5 which part of the sub-sample is to be used for the
average sample.
~ompose the average sample according to the comparative area
1n the column at the right of the diagram.
6.1.5 Sampling from horizontal elliptical tanks
6.1.5.1 The material is homogeneous
Sample as indicated under item 6.1.4. 1 using Figure 6.
6.1.5.2 The material is non-homogeneous
Sample as indicated under item 6.1.4.2 , using Figure 6.
6.1.6 Sampling from containers
6.1. 6. 1 The material is homogeneous
Sample as indicated under item 6. 1.2.1.
6.1.6.2 The material is non-homogeneous
Sample as indicated under item 6.1.2.2.
- 24 -
6.1. 7 Sampling from pipeline
This method should be used only if the material is completely liquid,
contains no components which could block the cock and if the speed of
pumping is constant. For taking. a pipeline sample a special tap or drip
cock should be placed in the horizontal part of the main line and as close
as possible after the pump (Figure 1). A small 25 mm diameter pipe half
cut in length should be positioned vertically in the main line. The empty
(hollow) side of the .Pipe must be facing the flow of liquid. At the
underside a cock with a bleeder line of not less than 10 mm should be
connected on the inside pipe.
During pumping a part of the material is forced into the inside half pipe
to flow out down the line through the cock. Attendance is necessary to
f ensure that a constant rate of flow is guaranteed.. Collect the material in
f a clean sample bucket which should be replaced when the pumping
! speed is changed. When the buckets are changed, determine by
i weighing, measuring or gauging the quantity represented. Also determine
the time occupied for that quantity, so that the correct proportional
quantities from the sub-samples can be taken to compose the average
sample. Special attention is necessary at the beginning of sweeping the
land or ship's tank.
Always take a separate sample from those drainings and take care that
the cock is wide open when taking such samples from pipeline. Determine
the quantity by weighing, measuring or gauging and calculate the quantity
of the sub-sample to compose the quality sample.
6.1.8 Sampling for the determination of apparent density, which is also
referred to as mass per volume (litre weight in air)
The material in the tank should be completely liquid, and the temperature
as homogeneous as possible. Take care that the temperature is kept
within the limits as prescribed in Appendix 5. Make sure that the contents
of the tank stand still and are more or less free from the air with no foam
on top. The sampling apparatus should have the same temperature as
the sample to be taken.
Take sub-samples, preferably from more than one point from top, middle
and bottom.
- 25 -
 Temperature should be measured concurrently with the sub-samples with
accuracy of 0.1 Deg C.
Collect the sub-samples in order to prepare the sample for determination
of volumetric weight.
6.2 Sampling from packaged consignments
Beforehand it must be clear what is the purpose of the sampling. Sampling can
be carried out for analysing specific components for contractual settlements or
for qu.ality purposes o~ the basis of which a parcel can be rejected. A special
case 1s sampling for v1sual and/or organoleptic purposes.
It is recommended that an extra number of packing units be delivered if it is
known beforehand that a consignment will be sampled. This is especially the
case when the package/container from which the sample has been taken will not
be accepted by the receiving party as a delivery.
6.2.1 Packing of the consignment
Distinction can be made between consignments in trade packages
(drums, barrels, etc) and consignments in retail packs.
6.2.2 Composition of the consignment
Distinction can be made between parcels which are homogeneous and
non-homogeneous; also parcels in which the quality of separate units
strongly deviates.
6.2.3 Number of samples
It is recommended that the parties concerned agree on the number of
packages to be sampled. This applies specially to non-homogeneous
consignments. Consignments about which nothing is known should be
considered non-homogeneous.
- 26 -
6.2.3.1 Consignments which are homogeneous
Theoretically, sampling of one package is sufficient. Practically.
however, five packages are sampled to get the impression of the
homogeneity. From the sub-samples, the average sample is
composed. If there are clear visual differences between the f1ve
sub-samples, the consignment is to be considered as non-
homogeneous and should be sampled as described under item
6.2.3.2.
6.2.3.2 Consignments which are non-homogeneous
If no agreement has been made regarding the number of
packages to be sampled, the following applies. Sample 10 percent
of packages up to a maximum of thirty. These packages are to
be choosen at random and in such a manner as to represent the
consignment.
Compose from the sub-samples, the average sample.
6.2.3.3 Widely deviating packages
In the case of consignments of which the quality of some of the
separate packages widely deviates, all packages should be
sampled. From the deviating packages, the samples should be
packed separately and related to the packages concerned.
Compose from the remaining non-deviating sub-samples, a
sample.
6.2.4 General instructions
If owing to a high number of packages having been sampled, the quantity
of the material so obtained is excessive, take from every sub-samples,
if necessary after homogenisation, an equal quantity for the av~rage
sample, presuming that the sub-samples represent the same quantity of
material.
6.2.4.1 Liquid material in retail packs
If the material is liquid and packed in retail packs, use a shutter
scoop (Figure 7).
- 27 -
 Ensure homogeneity of the contents of the package, drum/barrel,
etc. by rolling, tipping and through the bunghole insert the open
shutter scoop slowly and vertically to the bottom of the package.
Close the scoop on top-side and empty it in a sampling bucket.
6.2.4.2 Solid material in retail packs
If the material is solid and packed in retail packs, use a sampling
scoop as described in Figure 8.
Take three samples from the package, viz. one vertically and two
in sloping direction. Insert the sampling scoop as far as possible
into the cqntents of the package by a twisting motion.
The sampling scoop is withdrawn in the same manner and
emptied into a sampling bucket.
Compose from the three sub-samples, the average sample of the
package. If the material is packed in retail packing and the
quantity per package is small (for instance 1 kilo), a package may
serve as a sample.
If the quantity is too big, act as described under item 6.2.4.1 or
6.2.4.2. If one package consists of a number of small tins,
bottles, etc. take from every package one tin, bottle, etc.
6.2.4.3 Partially crystallised material in retail packs
If the material is partially crystallised and packed in retail packs,
the entire content has to be heated to the maximum recommended
temperature (Appendix 2) and keeping the oil in that temperature,
act as described under item 6.2.4.1.
- 28 -
7. Preparation of samples
7.1 Packaging of samples
The intended number of samples should be packed in clean, dry, airtight
containers, preferably made of dark-coloured glass or food-grade plastic mat.erials
compatible with oils, and filled in such a way that at the top some space IS left
for expansion. Bottle size should be a minimum 250 mi.
If the product has to be heated for filling purposes, the temperatures described
in Appendix 5 should be applied. The expansion space should not be great, as
air exerts detrimental action on most oils. This is particularly the case when the
peroxide value of the sample has to be analysed. The bottles should be closed
with corks or screw stoppers.
7.2 Sealing of samples
On all sample bottles a label should be attached. Whatever the method of
closure the bottle should be sealed in such a way that the bottle, label, etc. form
one entity to prevent eventual forgeries. Sealing wax may not be used as they
may contain undesirable materials. Minimum information on the label should
include the following :-
7.2.1 Place and date of sampling.
7.2.2 Name of material and quantity of parcel. Type of sample/tank sample,
pipeline sample, etc. Samples for the determination of apparent density
[which is also referred to as mass per volume (litre weight in air)] should
also indicate the temperature.
7.2.3 Name, number or other identification of the transport unit in which the
parcel has been loaded, from which the parcel has been discharged.
7.2.4 A specific indication as to the source of the sample taken (ship/tank,
etc.).
- 29 -
 7.2.5 Consignments in packages.
APPENDIX 1
7.2.6 The number or the percentage and marks/numbers of the sampled units
should be mentioned.
TEMPERATURE RANGE FOR PUMPING OIL INTO DEDICATED ROAD TANKER

7.3 Storage of samples

For arbitration or other purposes, the samples should be kept for a period of TEMPERATURE AT TIME
three months protected against daylight and in a cool place. PRODUCT OF LOADING

MIN°C MAX°C

Palm Oil (Crude/Processed) 50 55

Palm Olein (Crude/Processed) 30 35

Palm Stearin (Crude/Processed) 55-60 3 65-70"

Palm Kernel Oil/Coconut Oil (Crude/Processed) 30 35

Palm Kernel Olein(Crude/Processed) 30 35

Palm Kernel Stearin(Crude/Processed) 40 45

Palm Fatty Acid Distillate/Palm Acid Oil 55 70

Palm Kernel Fatty Acid Distillate 30 35

Hydrogenated Oils Refer to note (b) below

Note:

a. The lower temperatures apply to soft grades, while the higher temperatures are necessary
for hard grades. The temperatures apply to both crude and processed oils in each grade.

b. Hydrogenated oils can vary considerably in their slip melting point, and care should be
taken to ensure that the temperatures are between 10 and 15 Deg.C higher than their slip
melting point.

- 30 - - 31 -
 f[
I
APPENDIX 2 I APPENDIX 3
I
RECOMMENDED RANGE OF TEMPERATURES DURING STORAGE AND AT THE
r FOSFA INTERNATIONAL LIST OF BANNED IMMEDIATE PREVIOUS CARGOES*
i
TIME OF LOADING I DISCHARGE

Acetone Cyanohydrin ( Alpha Hydroxyisobutyronitrile;

2-Methy//actonitrile )
TEMPERATURE TEMPERATURE
PRODUCT DURING VOYAGE AT TIME OF Acrylic Acid ( Acroleic Acid; Propenoic Acid)
LOADING/DISCHARGE
Acrylonitrile ( 2-Propenenitrile; Vinyl
MINOC MAXOC MIN°C MAXOC Cyanide)

Palm Oil (Crude/Processed) 32 40 50 55 Adiponitri/e ( 1-4 Dicyanobutane )

Palm Olein (Crude/Processed) 25 30 30 35 Aniline ( Phenylamine; Aminobenzene )

Palm Stearin (Crude/Processed) 40 45 55-60• 65-70•

I Butylacrylate (n. and tert -,)

Palm Kernel Oil/Coconut Oil 27 32 30 35 Carbon Tetrachloride ( ·Tetrach/oromethane;

(Crude/Processed) Perchloromethane)

Palm Kernel Olein ( Tradename for a glycidyl

Cardura E
(Crude/Processed) 25 30 30 35 esters of Versatic 911 Acid )

Palm Kernel Stearin ( Cashew Nut Shell Liquid )

32 38 40 45 Cashew Nut Shell Oil
(Crude/Processed)

Palm Fatty Acid Distillate/Palm 52 55 55 70 Dibuty/amine

Acid Oil
Diethano/amine [ DEA; di(2-Hydroxyethyl)amine ]
Palm Kernel Fatty Acid Distillate 27 32 30 35
Diethylenetriamine
I Refer to note (b) below
Hydrogenated Oils Di-Jsopropy/amine
L
Note: Dipropy/amine

a. The lower temperatures apply to soft grades, while the higher temperatures are necessary m-Divinylbenzene ( DVB; Vinyl Styrene )
for hard grades. The te.mperatures apply, to both crude and processed oils in each grade.
Epichlorohydrin ( Chloropropy/ene Oxide; EPI )
b. Hydrogenated oils can vary considerably in their slip melting point, which should always
be declarE!sL It is recommended that during the voyage, the temperature should be
maintained"at around the declared melting point and that this should be increased prior to
discharge to give a temper?ture of between 10 Deg. C and 15 Deg. C above that point to
effect a clear discharge.

- 32 -
 Epoxy resins (uncured) Morpholine

Ethyl Acrylate Morpholine Ethanol

Ethylene Dichloride Nitric Acid ( Aqua Fortis; Engravers Acid;

Azotic Acid )
2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate
Phthalates
Ethanolamine ( MEA; Monoethanolamine; [These include :
Colamine; 2-Aminoethanol;
2-Hydroxyethylamine ) Di-octyl phthalate (DOP)
Di-iso cetyl phthalate (DIOP)
Ethylenediamine ( 1, 2 Diaminoethane ) Di-iso nonyl phthalate (DINP)
Di-iso decyl phthalate (DIDP)
Furfuryl Alcohol ( Furyl Carbinol ) Di-allyl phthalate (DAP)]

Glutaraldehyde n-Propylamine

Hexamethylenediamine ( 1.6-Diaminohexane; Propylene Oxide ( Methyl Oxirane; 1.2

1.6-Hexanediamine) Epoxypropane )

lsocyanates Pyridine
[These .include :
+Styrene Monomer ( Vinyl Benzene; Phenyl
Toluene di-isocyanate (TDI) Ethylene; Cinnamene )
Polyphenyl polymethylene isocyanate (PPI)
Di-phenyl methane di-isocyanate Tall Oil
Methyl isocyanate]
Transformer Oils of PCB type
Lube Oil Additives
Vinylacetate Monomer
Methyl Acrylate

Methyl Methacrylate Monomer

LEADED PRODUCTS SHALL NOT BE CARRIED AS THE THREE PREVIOUS CARGOES
Methyl Styrene Monomer ( Vinyl Toluene)
+ STYRENE MONOMER IS BANNED AS ANY ONE OF THE LAST TWO CARGOES IN
Methyl Styrene Monomer (AMS) TANKS WITH ORGANIC COATINGS

p Methyl Styrene Monomer ( PMS) IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT REGULAR CHECKS WITH FOSFA INTERNATIONAL BE
MADE TO OBTAIN THE LATEST VERSION OF THE LIST OF BANNED IMMEDIATE
PREVIOUS CARGOES

- 34 - - 35 -
;.f
 APPENDIX 4 APPENDIX5
RECOMMENDED RANGE OF TEMPERATURES DURING VOYAGE AND AT THE TIME
LOADING I UNLOADING SEQUENCE OF DISCHARGE

Oils from different lots should, where possible, be kept separate and pumping "fresh" oil into TEMPERATURE TEMPERATURE
"old" oil in particular should be avoided for oxidative quality reasons. PRODUCT DURING VOYAGE AT TIME OF
LOADING/DISCHARGE
Where a number of products are pumped through a common pipeline system, the system must
be cleared completely between different products or grades by an efficient pigging system. The MIN°C MAX°C MIN°C MAX°C
order of loading, discharge or pumping should be carefully chosen to minimise the consequence
of contamination. Palm Oil (Crude/Processed) 32 40 50 55
The following order of pumping should be observed :- Palm Olein (Crude/Processed) 25 30 30 35
1. Fully refined. Palm Stearin (Crude/Processed) 40 45 55-60" 65-70"
2. Partly refined.
3. Crude. Palm Kernel Oil/Coconut Oil
4. Palm fatty acid distillate/palm acid oil. (Crude/Processed) 27 32 30 35

Palm Kernel Olein

(Crude/Processed) 25 30 30 35

Palm Kernel Stearin

(Crude/Processed) 32 38 40 45

Palm Fatty Acid Distillate/Palm 52 55 55 70

Acid Oil

Palm Kernel Fatty Acid Distillate 27 32 30 35

Hydrogenated Oils Refer to note (b) below

Note:

a. The lower temperatures apply to soft grades, while the higher temperatures are necessary
for hard grades. The temperatures apply to both crude and processed oils in each grade.

b. Hydrogenated oils can vary considerably in their slip melting point, which should always be
declared.lt is recommended that during the voyage, the temperature should be maintained at
around the declared melting point and that this should be increased prior to discharge to give
a temperature of between 10 Deg. C and 15 Deg. C above that point to effect a clear discharge.

- 36 - - 37 -
 Handle
Profile A-A
I'~A
Manometer tap

\----Lid
"---~...---Stopper

I
I
I~ A
Front Lengthening piece (6 x)

FIGURE 1 :INTERMEDIATE SECTION FOR TAKING PIPELINE SAMPLES

Contents ca. 1 litre

FIGURE 2 : BOTTOM SAMPLER

- 38 - - 39 -
 Air escape opening
by movable slide
Rope
- - r - Lid
A A

+---11---- Chain
Handle
Ground glass stopper
-Handle

A
--f>l-- Spring
iI
'I : 11-- - ! 4 - -
1
Valve Spindle
I '
I II
J i! t"A>--- Housing
r--~1--- Valve

~~~ .,.,.~"""'~"~-- Bottom

Contents c.a. 1 litre

Contents ca. 1. 5 lit res

FIGURE 3 : ZONE AND/OR BOTTOM SAMPLER FIGURE 4 : SIMPLE SAMPLING BOTTLE

- 40 - - 41 -
zones comparative area

zones comparative area

3

1 3
2 4112

2 43,4
3 5

3 43,4
4 4112

4 3
5 3

FIGURE 6: ELLIPTICAL CROSS-SECTION HORIZONTAL TANK

FIGURE 5 :CYLINDRICAL CROSS-SECTION HORIZONTAL TANK

- 42 - - 43 -
 01cm
---~--

7i
~\
A

I'
~r
I

Profile A-A

E
.- I E
---
A
i 'I
I

I
~--

i
A
•
~ ___
co l .-
(.)
0 2.5cm co
(.)

t I
.,. 2.5cm
- ~l-
I I
I

FIGURE 7 : SHUTTER SCOOP FIGURE 8 : SAMPLING SCOOP (OPEN TRIER)

- 44 - - 45 -
 DISCLAIMER

This PROCESSED PALM OIL AND PALM KERNEL OIL STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION,
MALAYSIAN PALM OIL BOARD
SAMPLING AND SURVEY GUIDE book was compiled with the aim of enhancing the (MPOB)
professionalism of the palm oil and palm kernel oil industry in Malaysia. However, the Palm Oil NO. 6, PERSIARAN INSTITUSI
Refiners Association of Malaysia (PORAM) and all the other parties involved in the preparation 43650 BANDAR BARU
and publication of this book shall incur no lial:?ility whatsoever for any loss, damage or injury BANG I, SELANGOR,MALAYSIA
caused by any act or omission arising directly or indirectly from the adoption of this book.
TEL NO : 603-8925 9155/8925 9775
FAX NO : 603-8925 9446
TLX NO : MA 31609

FEDERATION OF OILS, SEEDS AND FATS ASSOCIATION LTD.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
(FOSFA INTERNATIONAL)
20 ST; DUNSTAN'S HILL
1. FOSFA International List of Banned Immediate Previous Cargoes. LONDON EC3R 8NQ
ENGLAND
2. ISO 5555 - Animal and Vegetable Fats and Oils (Sampling). TEL NO : 00 44 20 7238 5511/2707
FAX NO : 00 44 20 7623 1310
3. NIOP Guidelines for Storage and Transport of Edible Oils and Fats in Bulk.
TLX NO : 8812757
4. PORIM 1 FOSFA International I PORAM Processed Palm Oil Storage, Transportation,
Sampling and Survey Guide (1984 Edition).
THE PALM OIL REFINERS ASSOCIATION OF MALAYSIA
5. PORIM Recommended Practices for Storage and Transport of Edible Oils and Fats. (PO RAM)
801C/802A BLOCK B, EXECUTIVE SUITE
6. PORLA Standard Surveying Procedures and Practices for Palm Oil and its Derivatives.
KELANA BUSINESS CENTRE
97, JALAN SS7/2
47301 KELANA JAYA
Note: SELANGOR, MALAYSIA
TEL NO : 603-74920006
The contents in this book may be changed and revised as and when necessary without prior
FAX NO : 603-74920128
announcement or notification.

. ... ~------·--· . ---~-- -· ····-·. ~-~· .·: ............. _._ .. .,.---: ........... "': :·. :-:~:-·.~~-~---~-~

- 46 -