Short answer: Check the cubes first for size, finish and breakage, then burn each sample the same way and record ignition, heat, smoke, ash and burn time. Approve one reference sample so every later batch has something to be measured against.
A sample is only useful if you test it in a way you can repeat. Here is a simple method that works for shisha and barbecue buyers.
Before you burn anything
Look at the pack and the product:
- Packaging. Is it clean and dry, and is the pack size what you asked for?
- Dimensions. Measure a handful of cubes with a caliper. Note the spread, not just the average.
- Surface and edges. Look for chipped corners, cracks and dust at the bottom of the pack.
- Weight. Weigh a few cubes. Large differences point to uneven density.
- Smell. Raw charcoal should not smell of chemicals or dampness.
Take photos of all of this. They become your reference.
Run a fair burn test
Change as little as possible between samples.
- Use the same heater, bowl, foil and tobacco or flavour for every sample.
- Light each sample the same way, for the same length of time.
- Record how long the cube takes to reach a steady glow.
- Note the heat on the bowl at the start, the middle and the end of the session.
- Watch for sparks, popping, smoke and any smell at ignition.
- Time the session and check how much of the cube is left.
- Compare the ash: colour, how much, and whether it holds its shape.
Test at least three cubes from each sample, and repeat on another day. One good burn proves little.
Keep a score sheet
A short table is enough. Rate each point from 1 to 5, or write short notes:
| Point | What to note |
|---|---|
| Ignition | Time to glow, sparks |
| Heat | Steady or uneven |
| Smoke and smell | At ignition and during the session |
| Burn time | Minutes of usable heat |
| Ash | Amount, colour, shape |
| Breakage | Cubes that cracked in the pack or in use |
Compare with the specification
Put your results next to the supplier’s specification: ash, moisture, fixed carbon and calorific value. If you can, send the sample to a laboratory with the same method the supplier uses. Our guide to reading the specification explains each parameter.
Approve a reference sample
When a sample meets your needs, approve it in writing and keep a sealed copy. Production should follow that reference and the agreed parameters. If a later batch looks or burns differently, you have something to compare against.
At Aero Charcoal
Every order starts with a product brief and a reference sample. You evaluate and approve the sample before quotation and order confirmation. Send your brief to start.
