Recently, a **robotic automated sampling and sample preparation system** project undertaken by Qingdao Hitec Electromechanical Technology Development Co., Ltd. completed on-site installation, integrated testing, and final acceptance. The system has been formally handed over and put into operation.
Developed for mineral testing laboratories, this automated sampling and sample preparation system uses an industrial robotic arm as its central transfer unit. It automates the entire workflow, from sample receipt, crushing, splitting, and grinding to sample portioning into containers and collection of sample rejects. This intelligent equipment addresses key challenges in traditional manual sample preparation, including significant human error, sample cross-contamination, and a lack of process traceability. It is suited to a wide range of applications, including third-party inspection organizations, government quality inspection laboratories, and testing of geological exploration samples.
System Workflow and Core Functions
Once the system is in operation, mineral samples no longer require repeated manual handling after entering a workstation. The robotic arm flexibly grips sample containers and transfers them between workstations. Crushing, multistage splitting, and grinding are performed automatically according to sample preparation procedures based on Chinese national standards, followed by automatic bottling and assignment of identification codes. All process steps, sample weights, splitting parameters, and operator information are stored in the system database in real time, providing **end-to-end traceability**. The system supports connectivity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and meets CNAS laboratory quality control management requirements.
System Advantages
- Flexible transfer by robotic arm accommodates sample buckets of various sizes; the workstation layout can be customized to suit the laboratory premises.
- Standardized sample preparation procedures deliver consistent splitting precision and reduce testing bias caused by manual operation.
- Enclosed sample preparation reduces dust and avoids the risks of unintended sample mixing and cross-contamination.
- Safety interlocks, fault alarms, and emergency-stop protection support stable operation.
- Modular design allows individual workstations to be added or integration with upstream sampling equipment to form a complete sampling and sample preparation line.
Applicable Industries and Applications
This robotic automated sampling and sample preparation system is particularly suited to third-party mineral testing laboratories, geological exploration laboratories, and sample preparation workshops supporting precious metal fire assay, where sample types are diverse and quality control requirements are stringent. It can be deployed independently or integrated with Hitec’s complete fire assay laboratory solutions.
Qingdao Hitec Electromechanical specializes in the research, development, and manufacture of standalone mineral sample preparation equipment, automated sampling and sample preparation systems, comprehensive fire assay laboratory solutions, and dedicated analytical instruments. Serving port groups, metallurgical enterprises, inspection and testing organizations, and geological exploration organizations, the company provides customers in China and overseas with integrated services covering solution design, manufacturing, on-site installation, commissioning and training, and after-sales maintenance.
For solutions involving long-distance batch transfer of bulk materials, see [Gantry Robot Automation System Acceptance Case Study]. To explore more automated sampling and sample preparation solutions, visit [Automated Sampling and Sample Preparation Systems Product Center]. For fire assay laboratory solutions, select [Fire Assay Laboratory Solutions].
[FAQ]
Yes. Standard interfaces are provided for connection to mainstream laboratory information management systems, enabling automatic upload of sample data for traceability.
Solid mineral samples such as ores, concentrates, and coal. The crushing and grinding units can be customized to suit the material properties.