When planning a copper project—whether from mined ore or recycled scrap—your lab results dictate project viability, recovery efficiency, smelter compliance, and cost controls. Faulty sampling leads to inaccurate grade data, missed penalties, and expensive engineering errors.
At PRS, we ensure not only reliable testing—but reliable sampling.
Copper Scrap Sample Preparation
Key Steps:
- Melt scrap(e.g. wire, granules) into ingots
- Drill coresat multiple locations for representativity
- Grind & sieve, dividing into:
- Sieve top (+180 mesh)
- Sieve bottom (−180 mesh)
- Package each fraction separately, clearly labeled with source details
Why It Matters:
Fines and coarse fractions often have different copper or impurity levels. Segregation can lead to misleading assay results and unanticipated penalties.
Amount & Timing:
- 300 g per fraction (600 g total)
- Testing results delivered in approx. 2 weeks
Copper Ore Sample Preparation
What to Do:
- Grind to −180 mesh (~80 µm)using vibratory or similar mills
- Submit at least 300 gof ground sample (500 g recommended for ores with gold/silver)
Testing Choices & Timing:
Analysis Type | Method | Turnaround Time |
Copper Only | AAS (Atomic Absorption) | 10–12 days |
Cu + Au + Ag | Fire Assay + AAS | ~14 days |
Full Element Suite | ICP MS + XRF | 14–21 days |
Tip: Add trace elements like As, Sb, or Bi in your request if needed.
Why PRS Sample Protocols Outperform
- Scientific Accuracy:Grinding to 80 µm achieves >95% liberation; scrap melting avoids “hot spot” bias
- Fast Turnaround:Standard testing in ~2 weeks—faster than many labs; rush service available (7 days, +20% fee)
- Custom Reporting:Includes LME-compliant grade certificates, penalty alerts, and blending recommendations
Your Step-by-Step Submission Guide
For Ore Samples:
- Grind sample to −180 mesh
- Weigh ~300–500 g into sealed, labeled bags with deposit/project info
For Scrap Samples:
- Melt scrap into an ingot
- Drill, grind, sieve into top & bottom fractions
- Package 300 g separately with clear labels
After Sending Samples:
- Testing begins immediately upon receipt
- You’ll receive full results and practical recommendations in ~2 weeks
Invest with Confidence—Start with Precision
Proper sampling saves time, money, and operational headaches. With PRS, your investment is backed by reliable data and expert guidance.
Need help or want a quote? Contact our team today to get your sample testing underway—and build your copper project on solid foundations.
