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Integrated Robotic Assay Labs
Carlin, Nevada
For Newmont Gold Company, Roberts & Schaefer designed and
commissioned an automated robotics lab, and converted Newmont's
two laboratory manual assay labs to a robot facility. Significant
project items include hardware and software integration, specification
of robotics and the automated sampling and analytical instrument
interface, and higher level programming and MIS integration.
The manual facility employed 150 people and processed less than
1,000 samples per day with a high sample error rate. In contrast,
the automated facility employs only 10 people, processes more
than 3,000 samples per day, and provides consistently accurate
results.
Developing the facility included specifying bar code sample tracking,
automated sample drying, splitting, test tube and crucible filling,
acid digest dissolution, cyanide leachability, atomic adsorption
spectrum analysis, and system control and data acquisition. R&S
also specified secondary systems, including deionized water, off
gas scrubber and dust collection, chemical drainage, neutralization,
room pressurization HVAC, halon, and deluge fire protection. In
addition, R&S provided building engineering and design.
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