Coal Inspection

Coal is a critical raw material for various industries, including thermal power generation, metallurgy, cement, and chemicals. However, the quality and value of coal can vary significantly depending on its origin, extraction conditions, transportation, and storage.

Coal inspection, therefore, is not merely a technical verification activity but also a fundamental basis for determining the true value of the commodity, ensuring transparency and fairness in commercial transactions.

As a long-standing core and traditional service, Vinacontrol is a trusted coal inspection partner for most major and key projects in Vietnam. We support businesses in controlling coal quality, safeguarding economic interests, and maintaining stability across strategic energy supply chains.

Service Background

Coal inspection is the process of examining, analyzing, and evaluating the quality and quantity (mass) of coal based on applicable technical standards. This activity ensures consistency and transparency in coal composition, impurities, and value across transactions, transportation, production, and utilization.

Vinacontrol’s inspection services support businesses by:

• Controlling coal quality in accordance with contractual and technical specifications
• Accurately determining the quantity, mass, and value of consignments
• Minimizing commercial disputes during delivery and settlement
• Meeting regulatory inspection requirements and import-export procedures
• Optimizing operational efficiency and energy supply chain management

Scope of Services

Vinacontrol’s coal inspection services include:

1. Quantity and Mass Determination

• Draft Survey for vessels
• Measurement at storage tanks, holds, and transport vehicles
• Belt scale, truck scale, and vessel weighing
• Counting, volume measurement, and mass conversion
• Supervision of loading, unloading, and cargo handling

2. Quality Inspection

Analysis and evaluation of coal parameters conducted in modern ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories:

• Basic parameters: Calorific value (GCV/NAR), moisture content, ash, volatile matter, fixed carbon
• Chemical parameters: Sulfur, nitrogen, hydrogen content
• Size parameters: Particle size and size distribution
• Physico-chemical properties: Combustion characteristics, ash behavior, hardness
• Visual assessment: Condition of coal (moisture, agglomeration, presence of impurities, etc.)

3. Sampling and Sample Preparation

• Sampling at mines, warehouses, ports, vessels, and conveyor systems
• Manual or automatic sampling in accordance with ISO/ASTM standards
• Sample preparation, splitting, and sealing

4. Loss and Damage Assessment

• Determination of losses during transportation and storage
• Evaluation of causes of quality or quantity degradation
• Provision of evidence for dispute resolution

5. Supervision of Handling and Transportation

• Supervision of loading and unloading operations at ports and warehouses
• Inspection of transport means (vessels, barges, containers, trucks)
• Inspection of cargo holds and storage conditions
• Ensuring compliance with technical procedures and safety requirements