Multi-Source, Flow-Weighted Composite Sample System

A sampling device, comprising:

• at least two inputs each configured to receive samples from a corresponding feedstock input line;
• a sample accumulator;
• a mass flow controller associated with each feedstock input line, each mass flow controller having a sample output and being configured to receive a signal representative of the flow rate at each input, where each mass flow controller adjusts the flow rate of its respective sample from its respective sample output in response to receiving representative signals;
• and
• at least a first and second sample output line respectively connected with a sample output of each mass flow controller, each sample output line being connected to an input of the sample accumulator for introduction to the sample accumulator of samples from the output of the mass flow controllers.

A method for accounting for the flow rate from a plurality of sample fluid sources to a combined input for increased measurement accuracy in energy content/composition analysis, the method comprising:

• determining the flow rate of a sample fluid in each of the plurality of sample fluid sources;
• extracting a sample from each of the plurality of sample fluid sources;
• passing each such extracted sample to and inputting such sample into a sample accumulator at an adjusted flow rate corresponding to the determined flow rate of its sample fluid source;
• accumulating a plurality of fluid samples in the accumulator to create a composite sample;
• and
• outputting a select amount of said composite sample from the accumulator for energy content/compositional analysis of the composite sample.