What should be the chute width for a fine aggregate sample?

The correct width of the chute for collecting a fine aggregate sample should indeed be 50% larger than the largest particle size. This practice ensures that all particles, including those at the upper end of the size distribution, can travel smoothly through the chute without experiencing blockages or segregation. When the chute width is appropriately larger than the largest particle, it facilitates a more representative and consistent sampling process, which is essential for accurate testing and analysis.

If the chute width were equal to the largest particle size, it might cause particulate interference or blockage, resulting in an inadequate and non-representative sample. Setting the chute width to half of the largest particle size would also not be sufficient, as it could lead to similar issues with handling and collecting the aggregate. A fixed width of 3/8" may also be too narrow or unnecessary without consideration of the actual largest particle size, limiting the effectiveness of the sampling process. Therefore, the recommendation to have the chute width at 50% larger than the largest particle size emphasizes the importance of ensuring a smoothly operating sampling mechanism that accurately captures the characteristics of the fine aggregate.