Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I take the sample from?
Correct and consistent sampling is fundamental to accurate results. Samples should be taken from the same position on all sheep to allow fair comparison (i.e. choose only to mid-side sample or pin bone).
Mid-side samples should be centred on the third last rib, half way between the mid-line of the back and the mid-line of the belly.
Pin Bone samples should be taken on the pin bone.
No matter the sample location, the sample should be taken at skin level, ideally in one pass and comprise full length staples.
What is the difference between a mid-side sample and a pin bone sample?
A mid-side sample will give an indication of the average micron across the entire fleece.
The pinbone sample is an indicator of the broadest fibres across the fleece.
Whichever method you select, it is important to be consistent across the whole mob.
Do you test Alpaca, Angora or Mohair?
Yes! We can test a range of fibres.
If you are submitting Alpaca, Angora, Mohair or similar samples, please use the appropriate test request form. (See below).
How much sample do I need to send?
We require a handful amount of wool for sampling. Roughly the amount that would fit in a standard size coffee cup.
Samples should be taken at skin level and in one pass. It is very important if you are choosing to have staple length measured, that the sample comprises full length staples.
How do I identify which animal the sample came from?
You can either manually write the tag numbers on the bags or you can use an EID tag printer and place a barcode in the bottom of the sample bag before putting the sample in.
You also have the option to include Tag Colour/Prefix, GFW, Sire, BWT, Comment or other information on the sample bag, and we will include it with your fleece testing results.
If using barcodes, it is important that you do not wrap the wool around barcode as the lanolin can eat away at the thermal barcode. Simply put the barcode in the bottom of the bag and place the sample on top and then fold the top of the bag over.
If you are sampling from mulitple mobs and wish to keep the results seperate, please indicate this on your test request form and either seperate your samples prior to sending (preferred), or label the samples clearly so that our lab technicians can seperate on arrival.
Can you record other information for me?
Yes! There are spaces on our sample bags to include:
- Tag Colour or Prefix
- Ear Tag Number
- GFW
- Sire
- BWT
- Comments
Our lab technicians will record your notes when testing the samples and this will be included in your results and reports.
How do I seal the bags?
Once you have placed the sample in our paper sample bags, simply roll the top of the sample over. There is no need to staple, tape, use a rubber band or other method to seal the bags. Once the top is rolled over, the samples will remain safely in the bags.
If you require sample bags please phone us on (02) 6925 1407 and we will post you sample bags free of charge.
Where do I get sample bags from?
We provide sample bags free of charge!
Either call into our Lab at Wagga Wagga, or give us a call on (02) 6925 1407 and we will arrange sample bags to be posted directly to you.
How do I send my samples?
- Samples can be dropped to our Lab in Wagga Wagga
- Sent via Australia Post
- Via a courier
If you are unsure what you best option is, give us a call and we can help to advise.
Our address is 12 Cheshire Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650
Can you run a RamPower Index once my results are finalised?
We sure can! There is a section on our test request forms to request we run a RamPower Index on your results. Simply fill in this section with the relevant information and we will send through your RamPower Index with your results.
Didnt get a RamPower Index at testing time? No problem! Our team can run an index whenever suits your operation. Contact us today and one of our friendly staff will arrange this for you.
Test Request Form Hints
- Please include a test request form with your samples. This ensures our team can book your samples in promptly on arrival.
- Our IWTO Australian Standard Test (1000 Fibre Count Test) includes FD, SD, CV, Spin, Curve, %>30.5 and Comfort Factor.
- There is also the option to add on a Washing Yield, Staple Length and or Staple Strength test.
- If you wish to have a RamPower Index run on your results, please fill in this section on the form.
- If you wish to release your results to a secondary party i.e. Wool Rep or Consultant, please fill in the bottom section of the test request form, otherwise you can leave this part blank and your results will be sent to the email listed at the top of the form.