A method and system of obtaining a spatially representative sample of fluid flowing
through a duct comprises providing a sample probe having a plurality of inlet ports
in the duct, controlling a back pressure within the sample probe so that the back
pressure within the sample probe at each inlet port is the same, and receiving
a sample portion of the fluid into the plurality of inlet ports. The back pressure
may be equal to a static pressure of an outlet portion of the duct. The back pressure
may be controlled by venting the sample probe to atmosphere, using a pressure regulator
connected to the sample probe or venting to an opening in a wall of an outlet portion
of the duct. A cross sectional area of the sample probe may be at least ten times
larger than a sum of respective cross sectional areas of the inlet ports.