Heavy Brass Petroleum Tank Sampler ("Sample Thief") - 工作工具 Industrial

Heavy Brass Petroleum Tank Sampler ("Sample Thief") – Industrial Liquid Depth Sampler – 1930s – In excellent condition – No reserve

A professional heavy-duty brass petroleum tank sampler, also known as a sample thief, designed for collecting liquid samples from precise depths in storage tanks, fuel reservoirs, cargo ships, and industrial process vessels. Manufactured from solid heavy brass, this instrument was intended for use in the petroleum, chemical, and maritime industries, where its non-sparking construction provided safe operation around flammable liquids.

The sampler was lowered into a tank using the robust wire bail and attached rope or chain. Once at the desired depth, an internal stopper or valve (not included) would be released, allowing the chamber to fill with liquid from that exact level. This enabled accurate laboratory analysis of fuel quality, water contamination, density, and product consistency.

Industrial sampling devices such as this played an essential role in quality control throughout the oil and shipping industries during the early 20th century.
Their robust construction and functional design make them increasingly sought-after by collectors of maritime, petroleum, and industrial antiques.

This example is made from solid brass with an attractive aged patina and remains in excellent vintage condition. A decorative and highly collectible piece of industrial history.

Specifications
Material: Solid brass
Period: 1930s
Approx. dimensions: 37.5 × 6 × 6 cm (body)
Approx. total length including handle: 47 cm
Approx. weight: 1.95 kg
Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light signs of age and use consistent with its industrial purpose.