Blast Hole Sampling

Blast hole sampling provides the primary data for grade control decisions. Sample Collection Cone Sampling Collect representative sample from drill cuttings cone: - Sample from multiple sides - Avoid contamination from previous holes - Maintain consistent sample size Rig-Mounted Samplers Automated systems that collect samples during drilling: - More representative - Less contamination - Consistent sample size Sample Preparation - Crush to appropriate size - Split to required weight - Rapid assay turnaround critical Data Management - Link samples to hole locations - Enter results promptly - Flag outliers for review - Generate ore/waste polygons

All lessons in Open Pit Geology — Return to the complete Open Pit Geology course outline.
Previous lesson: Grade Control Fundamentals — Grade control is the process of delineating ore from waste at the mining face. Objectives - Maximize ore recovery - Minimize dilution waste in ore …
Next lesson: Bench Mapping — Bench mapping documents the geology exposed on mining faces. Purpose - Validate geological model - Identify structural controls - Guide grade control …

Verification resources

Cross-check terminology, classification, methods, and safety with these authoritative external resources.

Mineral Exploration Best Practice Guidelines — Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. Professional guidance for geological data, sampling, interpretation, security, and QA/QC.
The life cycle of a mineral deposit — U.S. Geological Survey. Scientific context for mineral deposits, extraction, processing, and reclamation.
Estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves Best Practice Guidelines — CIM Mineral Resources & Mineral Reserves Committee. Professional Canadian guidance for sample support, representativity, compositing, domaining, data quality, estimation, validation, and reconciliation.

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Blast Hole Sampling

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Verification resources