Progradex Soil Sampler

Progradex Soil Sampler

Project Description

The Progradex Soil Sampler project involved the design, manufacture, and delivery of a fully integrated soil sampling solution for use in overseas precious metals programmes. The machine was engineered to provide accurate and reliable core drill samples while ensuring robust performance in demanding site conditions. The project encompassed complete in-house fabrication, finishing, and assembly. The result was a high-quality, ready-to-deploy solution aligned with industry standards and tailored to meet the operational requirements of the client.

progradex
Trailer 19

Scope

The project scope was to manufacture a Progradex (PGX1350T) Sampler designed to provide accurate and reliable samples from core drills used in overseas precious metals programmes.

The machine was required to be delivered fully functional and ready for immediate deployment upon arrival to site, minimising commissioning time and operational delays. As part of the delivery requirements, all hydraulics, electrics, pneumatics, and mechanical mechanisms were thoroughly tested to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance with operational standards.

The customer’s project scope changed many times during the manufacturing stage as customization parameters brought about new factors to consider as well as new challenges. The final scope was established with the support and guidance from our JB Engineering site installation team, which has the required skills and experience in structural fabrication and installation. 

Process

  • The manufacturing process commenced with laser cutting, press braking, and rolling operations carried out in accordance with the customer’s drawings, ensuring all components were prepared accurately prior to fabrication. Fabrication and welding activities were then completed in line with the manufacturer’s specification, with any deviations formally communicated and approved by the client via email.
  • Painting was undertaken in-house using a gravity-fed application system, consisting of one coat of 2K epoxy primer followed by two coats of 2K gloss topcoat. The specified finish included an anti-static white coating internally, with a graphite grey body and gold auxiliary components. Upon completion, the paintwork was subject to visual inspection to identify any surface defects such as runs, contamination, or orange peel, as well as to verify full (100%) coverage.
  • Following finishing, the machine was assembled, with pneumatics and hydraulics installed and plumbed accordingly. Electrical installation was completed by a subcontractor, after which final detailing activities were carried out, including the application of stickers, paint touch-ups, and a full clean prior to completion.
  • 100% visual on welds for defects.
  • 100% measurement check.
  • Test runs of Pneumatics/hydraulics electronics.
  • Material and component certificates in accordance to BS EN1090 + 9001.

Challenge

A key challenge encountered during the project was maintaining consistent alignment of the bottom carousel under varying air pressure conditions. Fluctuations in the air supply caused changes in the operating speed of the pneumatic cylinder responsible for rotating and aligning the indexing pin, resulting in intermittent positioning inaccuracies and reduced reliability of the indexing mechanism.

Solution

To address the alignment issues, pneumatic speed controllers were introduced alongside a mains air pressure regulator to stabilise and control both airflow and operating pressure, ensuring consistent cylinder performance. In addition, a mechanical stop was incorporated into the cylinder design to reduce the overall return stroke, providing an extra level of protection for the indexing pin in the event of significant misalignment.

THE PROJECT WAS COMPLETED ON SCHEDULE, WITHIN BUDGET, AND MET ALL QUALITY EXPECTATIONS