Why Accurate Sampling Matters at Large-Scale Mechanised PGM Operations

Engineering Insights from T.K.O Engineering's 35+ Years of Sampling Experience

The Hidden Cost of Poor Sampling

Sampling errors are often difficult to detect, yet they can create significant operational and financial consequences.

Common impacts include:

• Incorrect grade calculations

• Recovery losses

• Metallurgical accounting discrepancies

• Poor plant reconciliation

• Incorrect process adjustments

• Reduced confidence in reporting data

Over time, these issues can result in significant financial losses and operational inefficiencies. The cost of poor sampling is frequently far greater than the cost of implementing and maintaining a properly designed sampling system.

The Importance of Cross-Belt Sampling Systems

Cross-belt samplers remain one of the most widely used methods of collecting representative samples from conveyor systems.

When correctly designed, installed and maintained, cross-belt samplers provide:

• Consistent sample collection

• Improved metallurgical accounting accuracy

• Reliable reconciliation data

• Reduced operator intervention

• Enhanced operational safety

For many operations, the cross-belt sampler represents the primary source of process information used to evaluate plant performance. Its reliability and accuracy directly influence confidence in the data used throughout the operation.

Reliability Beyond Installation

A sampling system should not be viewed as a once-off capital purchase.

To maintain accuracy and performance, sampling systems require:

• Routine inspections

• Mechanical maintenance

• Cutter condition monitoring

• Electrical and PLC support

• Performance audits

• Periodic refurbishment

Regular maintenance ensures continued compliance with sampling best practices while maximising equipment life and operational reliability.

Looking Ahead

As mechanised mining operations continue to expand and process increasingly larger volumes of material, the role of representative sampling will become even more important.

Accurate sampling supports:

• Improved plant performance

• Better decision-making

• Reliable metallurgical accounting

• Greater operational confidence

• Enhanced profitability

For modern PGM operations, representative sampling is not simply a plant requirement. It is a critical business process that underpins operational success.

Maintenance and Refurbishment

T.K.O Engineering provides comprehensive maintenance and refurbishment services to extend the life of Go-Belt® sampling systems and ensure continued accuracy and reliability.

Our refurbishment services include complete drive assembly rebuilds, sampler housing restoration, and full system inspections to restore equipment to like-new condition.

About T.K.O Engineering

T.K.O Engineering CC specialises in the design, manufacture, installation, commissioning, refurbishment and maintenance of Go-Belt® Sampling Systems and related mineral processing equipment.

With more than 35 years of industry experience and over 100 successful installations across gold, platinum, copper and coal operations, T.K.O Engineering remains committed to delivering reliable, representative sampling solutions that support accurate metallurgical accounting and operational excellence.

Go-Belt® Sampling Specialists

Engineered to Outperform