Choosing the Right Plastic Core Tray Size: A Complete Guide for Mining and Exploration Projects

In mining and geological exploration, plastic core trays (also known as core boxes or sample trays) are more than simple storage containers – they are essential tools that protect your valuable core samples and preserve critical geological information. Selecting the right core tray size and type can greatly influence project efficiency, sample integrity, and even overall costs. This comprehensive guide will show you how to choose the right core tray by examining industry size standards (BQ, NQ, HQ, PQ, SQ), matching tray sizes to different exploration needs, comparing materials (plastic vs metal vs wood), and sharing best practices for storage and sustainability. Whether you’re a field geologist logging core or a procurement manager sourcing mining exploration equipment, making an informed choice on core trays will pay dividends in both data quality and operational performance.

Understanding Core Tray Sizes and Standards

Choosing the correct core tray size requires familiarity with the industry standards that define core diameters. The most widely used system comes from the Diamond Core Drilling Manufacturers Association (DCDMA), which established the wireline drill core size codes BQ, NQ, HQ, PQ (and occasionally SQ). These letter designations correspond to specific core diameters recovered by drilling, and core trays are manufactured to fit these standard sizes. In some regions, a metric system of core sizes is also used (often referenced by the core diameter in millimeters, such as 86 mm or 101 mm cores in geotechnical projects). However, the DCDMA wireline “Q” series sizes are globally recognized and serve as a common reference for tray dimensions and drilling equipment compatibility.

Core Size Codes and Their Dimensions: Each core size code represents an approximate core diameter and has implications for how much rock sample can be stored per tray and what drilling scenarios it’s best suited for. Below is a quick core tray size comparison chart of the common sizes and their typical applications:

• BQ – Core diameter around 36 mm. BQ is the smallest of the standard core sizes. It is used for early-stage exploration or in drill programs where minimizing equipment size and weight is important (e.g., helicopter-access drills or very hard rock where smaller cores are more feasible). BQ core trays are lightweight and often hold more meters of core per tray (usually about 6–7 meters) due to the smaller core diameter. This size is ideal for initial reconnaissance drilling and in difficult terrain where larger rigs can’t operate.

• NQ – Core diameter around 47 mm. NQ is the most widely used core size in mineral exploration, striking a balance between sample size and drilling efficiency. NQ core trays typically accommodate about 5–6 meters of core per tray. NQ is popular for gold and base metal exploration – the core is large enough to analyze ore mineralization adequately, yet drilling remains relatively fast and cost-effective. In many projects, NQ serves as the default choice for geological sample trays unless specific conditions warrant going bigger or smaller.

• HQ – Core diameter around 63.5 mm. HQ is a large-diameter core size often chosen for projects that demand more sample volume or better core recovery in fractured ground. HQ core trays usually hold about 4–5 meters of core per tray (since the cores are thicker). Geotechnical investigations frequently use HQ because the larger core provides more material for testing rock strength, hydrology, or structural analysis. It’s also used in mining exploration when core samples need to be sizable (for example, examining gold vein structures or when the geology is complex and one wants a more complete picture of the formation).

• PQ – Core diameter around 85 mm. PQ is an extra-wide core used in specialized situations. PQ core trays hold roughly 3–4 meters of core per tray given the core’s substantial thickness. This size is common in shallow drilling programs or any scenario where maximum sample material is desired – for instance, in diamond exploration drilling, larger-diameter cores increase the chance of retrieving indicator minerals or even diamonds from a kimberlite pipe. PQ cores can reveal more geologic detail due to their volume, but the trade-off is slower drilling and heavier, bulkier trays to handle.

• SQ – Ultra-large or specialized core sizes (approaching or exceeding 100 mm core diameter). SQ is a less common designation, generally referring to “S-size” cores that go beyond the PQ range. These are used for high-capacity exploration projects or specialized geotechnical coring where an extremely large core sample is needed. For example, certain oil sands or large-diameter geotechnical coring systems (like the historic “Geobor S” system) yield very large cores. An SQ core tray would be designed to hold those oversized cores (often still in the 65–86 mm range for many projects, but accommodating up to ~100 mm if required by triple-tube systems). This size is relatively rare in mineral exploration but can be crucial for bulk sampling programs or engineering projects where preserving a massive core is worth the effort. SQ trays typically also hold around 3×1 m lengths of core (similar to PQ) because the cores are so large.

Industry Standards (DCDMA, Wireline, Metric): The letters BQ, NQ, HQ, PQ correspond to the DCDMA wireline core drilling standards. In this system, drill rods and core barrels are designed so that BQ is the smallest and PQ the largest standard core. Wireline drilling allows retrieval of the core sample via an inner tube lifted by wire from the drill string, and these Q-series sizes are optimized for that method. Meanwhile, some drilling operations use metric or other national standards. For instance, you might encounter a designation like NQ (WL-56) or HQ (WL-76) where the number refers to the hole or core diameter in millimeters, or see metric series such as T2-86 or T2-101 (common in European geotechnical drilling) which yield cores similar to HQ/PQ sizes. Fortunately, modern plastic core trays often list compatibility with multiple standards – for example, a tray for PQ will also fit cores from a metric 86 mm system or a “PQ3” triple-tube core, since those diameters overlap. Always verify the tray’s internal slot width and depth against your core diameter to ensure a snug fit without excess rattling or too tight a squeeze.

Matching Core Tray Size to Exploration Type

Not all projects will use the same core tray size – the optimal choice depends on what you are drilling for, the drilling method, and the field conditions. To choose the best core tray for mineral exploration, consider the following factors:

Mineral or Resource Type

Different commodities and exploration goals will influence core size selection. For example:

• Gold Exploration: Gold deposits are often explored with NQ or HQ core. NQ provides sufficient sample for assays while keeping costs lower, whereas HQ might be used in key holes where structure or coarse gold needs to be evaluated with a larger sample. Since gold values can be erratic (nugget effect), HQ cores sometimes help ensure more representative sampling in visible gold scenarios.

• Diamond Exploration: When drilling for diamonds (e.g., in kimberlite pipes), using the largest core possible is advantageous – typically PQ core trays are employed. The reason is simple: larger diameter core means a higher volume of kimberlite per meter drilled, which improves the statistical chance of capturing indicator minerals or diamonds in the sample. Some advanced diamond exploration even uses large-diameter bulk sampling beyond PQ (up to 150 mm holes) to recover enough material. In early-stage prospecting, though, PQ is a common choice to balance effort and sample size.

• Geotechnical Drilling: Engineering geology projects (like assessing a dam or building site, or planning a mine shaft) often prioritize core quality and sample volume for rock property testing. HQ core trays are frequently used for geotechnical cores because they provide a robust sample – large enough for laboratory tests (point load, triaxial, etc.) and for examining fractures – but not so large as to be unwieldy on a drill rig. On occasion, PQ or specialized sizes may be chosen if the project specifically needs extra material (for example, large-diameter cores for freeze-thaw tests or other specialized geotech analyses).

Terrain and Climate Conditions

Environmental conditions at the drill site should influence your tray material and design choice (we’ll compare materials in detail later). Here are climate-specific considerations:

• Hot & Arid Regions: In deserts or other high-UV environments (think of the Atacama Desert or parts of Africa and Australia), the sun is brutal on materials. UV-resistant plastic core trays are ideal here. Quality plastic trays made from UV-stabilized HDPE or recycled plastic won’t become brittle or degrade under intense sunlight, whereas untreated plastics might crack and wood will dry and split. Metal trays can overheat in the sun, making them tough to handle, and they don’t protect cores from thermal expansion as well as plastic does. So for hot, sunny climates, plastic – especially recycled plastic with UV inhibitors – is the go-to choice to ensure a long service life in the field.

• Arctic or Cold Environments: In sub-zero temperatures, materials also face challenges. Plastic trays remain lightweight and won’t rust, but not all plastics perform well in extreme cold (some can become brittle). High-quality polyethylene trays, however, often retain enough toughness in the cold and are preferred due to their lighter weight (imagine hauling heavy metal core boxes through snow). Impact-resistant plastic formulations are available that withstand freezing conditions without cracking. Metal trays in cold regions can suffer from issues like frozen lids or even brittle fracture if dropped. Additionally, handling metal in extreme cold (often with bare hands during delicate operations) is unpleasant and potentially dangerous. Thus, for Arctic projects, impact-resistant recycled plastic trays are generally recommended, possibly with added cold-weather additives in the plastic if available.

• Humid Tropical Zones: In jungles or tropical climates with daily rain and high humidity, corrosion and rot are the enemies. Wooden core boxes can mildew, warp, or even be eaten by insects (termites love that soft pine if untreated!). Metal trays will inevitably rust unless they are aluminum or galvanized – even then, constant moisture will reduce their lifespan. Plastic core trays shine here as they are immune to rot and rust. Recycled plastic trays in particular handle humidity with no degradation, and they often feature drain holes or non-suction channel designs to let water out if cores are stored wet. For tropical projects, using plastic prevents the headache of cores sitting in water or boxes falling apart midway through the program.

Project Scale and Logistics

The scale of your project and how you plan to manage core storage across possibly multiple drill sites is another important factor:

• Small Exploration Programs: If you’re running a small campaign (say a single drill rig with limited meters), you may lean toward smaller core sizes like BQ or NQ to minimize drilling costs and the volume of material to transport. Fewer or smaller trays will be needed overall. However, even on small projects, consider future needs – if there’s a chance you’ll do follow-up drilling, investing in a standard size like NQ (widely used) might make it easier to source additional trays or even borrow/share with other projects. Logistics for a small project can be as simple as a few pallets of core boxes flown or trucked in, so you might prioritize tray designs that stack efficiently to keep your shipping volume low.

• Large or Multi-Rig Projects: In a big drilling program with many drill holes and possibly multiple rigs, the quantity of core and thus core trays can explode into thousands of boxes. Here, logistical optimization is key. Standardizing on a core size that suits most of your needs (e.g., NQ or HQ for a multi-year gold exploration across several prospects) will simplify procurement and storage. Also, consider tray stacking and palletization: high-capacity projects should use trays that are built to stack neatly (with interlocking features or ribbing that prevents stacks from toppling) so that core yards remain organized and safe. It’s wise to choose one manufacturer or model of tray for consistency – mixing tray types can lead to unstable stacks if dimensions differ slightly. Efficient tray design will allow stacking many trays per pallet or crate; for example, some plastic tray manufacturers design their products so that a pallet (about 103 × 108 cm footprint) can be loaded up to 230 cm high with trays, maximizing how much core you can ship in one go. This level of optimization can greatly reduce freight costs when transporting core from site to lab or to a storage facility.

• Mobility Between Sites: If your project is spread over multiple drill locations or if you need to relocate core often, lighter and more durable trays will save effort and money. Plastic trays are easier to carry and transfer between sites, and they take abuse better when being moved frequently. Look for trays with comfortable grip handles or safe edges if manual handling is expected often. Also consider if the trays need to be lifted with machinery (forklifts, cranes) – sturdy plastic trays can handle this, whereas old wooden boxes might break. For dynamic projects, durability and ease of handling trump all, to avoid sample loss during the frequent moves.

Material Comparison: Plastic vs Metal vs Wood Core Trays

Selecting the right core tray isn’t just about size – material matters a great deal in field performance and longevity. The traditional choice decades ago was wood, later followed by galvanized steel or aluminum trays, but in recent years recycled plastic core trays have become the preferred solution in the industry. Each material has its pros and cons. Below is a comparison of key features for trays made from recycled plastic, metal, and wood:

It’s clear from the comparison that plastic core trays – especially those made from recycled plastic – offer significant advantages in weight, durability, and longevity. They essentially marry the best qualities of metal (strength, weatherproof) with the best of wood (lightweight, non-sparking, non-conductive) without the downsides of either. This is why the industry has shifted to plastic and why we focus on it in discussions of sustainable mining core storage solutions.

Recycled Plastic Core Trays: Strength and Sustainability

Modern exploration and mining companies are increasingly concerned with sustainability and safety, and recycled plastic core trays tick both boxes. Let’s look at why recycled plastic trays are often considered the gold standard for core storage today:

• Built Tough for the Field: Recycled plastic trays (typically made from high-density polyethylene or polypropylene regrind) are exceptionally tough. They are engineered to withstand rough handling, whether it’s the jostling on a truck or being dropped on site. They don’t crack under normal use, and they resist chemical spills (like drilling fluids or core preservatives) that might come in contact. Importantly, they are UV-resistant – additives in the plastic or the inherent stability of HDPE ensure that even years of sun exposure in a core yard won’t make them crumble. This UV and weather resistance means you can confidently use these trays in tropic heat, desert sun, or alpine cold without worrying about material degradation.

• Lightweight and Cost-Effective: Plastic trays weigh a fraction of their metal counterparts. This lightweight nature translates to easier manual handling and lower transportation costs. Imagine shipping hundreds of core boxes from a remote drill site to a laboratory – if using metal, you’re paying to move a lot of extra kilograms of steel. With plastic, the shipment weight is mostly just the core samples themselves. Lower weight also means less fuel consumption for transport, indirectly reducing the carbon footprint of your project. Additionally, many suppliers design plastic trays to be nestable or efficiently stackable when empty, further reducing the volume and cost when returning or relocating empties.

• Environmentally Friendly Manufacturing: Using recycled plastic in these trays gives waste material a second life, keeping it out of landfills. Some manufacturers go a step further by powering their production with renewable energy. For example, PCT (Plastic Core Trays) produces its trays using solar energy (a 7.3 MW solar power setup), reducing manufacturing carbon emissions by roughly 40% compared to traditional processes. Every recycled tray therefore comes with a much smaller carbon footprint than a newly molded virgin plastic tray or a fabricated metal box. Adopting recycled plastic trays is a tangible way for exploration projects to support environmentally conscious mining practices.

• Long Service Life = Less Waste: The durability of recycled plastic trays means one tray can be reused for many drill programs over decades. They aren’t one-and-done. A single tray might see core from various projects over 30+ years. This longevity and reusability mean fewer trays need to be produced and disposed of in the long run, further enhancing sustainability. When a tray finally does reach end of life (perhaps after cracking due to an extreme impact), it is often still recyclable. In contrast, broken wood boxes usually become trash or firewood, and rusted metal might be scrapped if you’re lucky (often they just get junked).

• Safety and Ergonomics: From a safety perspective, plastic trays eliminate hazards like splinters (from wood) or sharp rusty edges (from metal). Field crews appreciate the smoother handling. Many recycled plastic designs include thoughtful features: for instance, molded label slots for sample markings, anti-slip textures on the base so cores don’t slide out, and even provisions for lid attachments or core separators. All these help maintain sample integrity – the cores stay put in their correct order and orientation, and labels remain legible, which is crucial for reliable geological logging.

In summary, recycled plastic core trays provide strength, longevity, and sustainability in one package. They allow exploration teams to meet their operational needs and align with green initiatives, all while protecting those irreplaceable core samples.

Core Tray Logistics: Storage, Stacking & Transportation

Managing core trays efficiently on site and during transport is often an underrated challenge. With potentially thousands of meters of core to handle, good logistics can save time, money, and prevent accidents or sample mix-ups. Here are some tips and considerations for optimizing core tray handling and storage:

• Palletization and Storage Density: One of the first things to plan is how core trays will be stored in the core farm (storage area) and how they’ll be prepared for transport. It’s wise to stack trays on pallets or racks rather than directly on the ground. Standard pallet dimensions (around 100 × 120 cm, depending on region) can accommodate a certain number of trays per layer; for instance, many plastic tray models are about 1 meter long, so you might fit 4–5 per layer on a pallet. Stack these layers up to a safe height – usually around 1 meter of core trays high per pallet for manual handling, or up to ~2+ meters if using forklifts (as noted earlier, 103 × 108 × 230 cm is an example of an optimized pallet load used by some suppliers, meaning they stack to 2.3 m high). By maximizing how many trays per pallet, you reduce the number of pallets to ship or store, which is both cost-efficient and space-saving.

• Reinforced & Interlocking Designs: Always choose core trays that are designed to stack securely. High-quality plastic trays often have interlocking features – for example, raised ridges or lips on the bottom that fit into grooves on the lid or top of the tray below. This prevents stacks from sliding off one another. Additionally, look for trays with reinforced sides or ribbing; these structural elements let trays bear the weight of many loaded trays stacked above without buckling. The last thing you want is a stack collapse in the core yard, which can be dangerous and will definitely disturb your orderly samples. Metal trays sometimes stack by sheer weight and friction (or require a shelving system), and wood trays usually need to be racked to be stable. Plastic trays with engineered stacking capability give you flexibility to stack on the fly, even on uneven ground.

• Safe Stacking Practices: Even with good tray design, human error can cause issues. Train field technicians to stack trays aligned properly (not rotated or mis-matched if using different tray types) and not to exceed a recommended number of trays high if stacking free-standing. Label the stacks with their contents and maybe secure them with a strap if transporting. If storing long-term, consider using a simple shelving or racking system – this makes any tray accessible without unstacking everything, and it keeps stacks from accidentally toppling. Some operations build low wooden frames or use metal shelving in core sheds to organize trays by drill hole or depth range.

• Labeling and Documentation: Proper labeling is vital to maintain sample integrity through the logistics chain. Each tray should have a clear identification: typically hole ID, from/to depths of the core contained, and a sequence number (e.g., Tray 12 of Hole XYZ-001). High-quality trays facilitate this by providing recessed areas for writing or sticking labels that won’t easily wear off. Use waterproof labels or markers – core often comes wet from drilling and may remain damp, so ordinary paper labels can disintegrate (opt for plastic or laminated labels). Some plastic trays have molded-in lettering options or come with clip-in plastic tags that are water-resistant. Whatever the method, ensure every tray’s identity is legible at a glance. During transport, it’s wise to also label the outside of palletized stacks (e.g., “Hole XYZ-001, Trays 1–15”) so that if boxes shift, you know which pallet they belong to.

• Protecting Core During Transport: If core trays will be moved over long distances (from remote site to main core yard, or to an assay laboratory), take measures to prevent jostling and mixing of core pieces. A common practice is to use core tray separators or inserts – basically wedges or blocks placed at intervals and at tray ends to keep core pieces tightly in place. Many plastic trays are compatible with snap-in separators for this reason. Also, consider wrapping the trays or covering them; some trays come with lids or you can stretch-wrap an entire stack on a pallet to ensure nothing spills out. The anti-stick surface of plastic trays helps when unloading core – unlike wood, which can swell and grip the core, plastic’s smooth channels let you remove core pieces easily once at the lab. And features like non-suction channels or drain holes (small perforations at the tray bottom) ensure that if core is shipped wet, water can escape and a vacuum seal doesn’t form, which otherwise could make pulling out the core difficult.

• Cleaning and Maintenance: After each drilling campaign or before storing trays for a long time, it’s good practice to clean them. Plastic trays are very easy to hose down or pressure-wash. Mud and rock debris don’t cling strongly to the smooth plastic, and you can quickly remove residual clay that might contaminate future samples. Unlike metal, you don’t need to oil them or worry about drying them immediately – they won’t rust. And unlike wood, they won’t grow mold if put away slightly damp (although it’s still best to dry cores and trays to prevent any fungal growth on the rock or labels). By keeping trays clean, you also ensure the next usage starts fresh – avoiding any confusion of old markings or debris mixing with new core. Essentially, minimal maintenance (just cleanliness) will keep plastic trays serviceable for many years.

By paying attention to these logistics details, you can create a smooth workflow for core handling. Efficient storage and transport of core trays mean your geologists and technicians spend less time wrestling with boxes and more time analyzing the actual core – speeding up the project’s progress and maintaining high data quality.

Why Tray Design Matters in Geological Accuracy

It’s easy to think of core trays as simple storage items, but their design can have a direct impact on the accuracy and quality of geological data. Remember, the core samples in these trays are often the primary source of information about an ore body or a geotechnical condition. Poor tray design or handling can introduce errors or even destroy critical evidence:

• Sample Integrity and Orientation: A well-designed core tray keeps each piece of core in order and properly oriented as it was in the ground. Many trays have half-cylindrical channels that cradle the core and prevent it from rolling. If a tray is flimsy and flexes or if dividers shift, core pieces can move out of sequence. Losing the orientation or sequence of core is a geologist’s nightmare – it can mean the difference between correctly interpreting a fault zone or not. Tray stability (rigid, flat-bottom design) ensures that when you lay out core for logging, it stays exactly as placed, even if you have to relocate the tray. This is especially important for oriented core (where marks on the core indicate direction); any jostling could misalign those reference lines.

• Preventing Sample Loss: Core fragments can be surprisingly delicate – a section of broken core might only be held together by the tray’s support. If the tray has gaps, rough spots, or if it is tipped at an angle, pieces can fall out and get lost. Every piece of core potentially holds information worth millions of dollars (consider that decisions on ore zones, mine planning, or safety can hinge on what’s observed in the core). A tray with a secure containment (high side walls, perhaps an option for lids, and sections to catch broken bits) will minimize loss of even small fragments. In contrast, an old warped wooden box might have a gap in the corner through which a crucial pebble of core falls out unnoticed.

• Waterproof and Chemical Resistance: Geological accuracy can also be affected by contamination. If trays aren’t waterproof, ground water or rain can seep in, causing clays to swell or sample oxidation. A water-resistant tray material like plastic prevents external moisture from seeping and reacting with the core (for instance, preventing oxidation of sulfides that could alter assay results). Also, if cores need to be washed or stored in water for any reason, plastic trays won’t absorb or react – the samples remain “pure.” Wood can leach tannins or other substances, and metal can rust and stain the core with iron oxide – all of which can confound geochemical analyses slightly or simply create a mess that obscures features.

• Consistent Geometry for Measurements: If you plan to do any digital core logging or photography (which is very common now), having standardized tray dimensions is important. Many projects use photography systems where trays are placed on a stand and cameras or scanners record high-resolution images for digital archives and AI analysis. Plastic core trays are usually very uniform in size and color (often a neutral gray or white interior) which provides a consistent background and scale for such images. This consistency improves the quality of geological logging and imaging – software can detect fracture traces or mineral changes on photos more reliably when the cores are neatly aligned in identical trays every time. Also, depth markers written on the tray are at known intervals (many trays have molded depth blocks or sticker points), aiding the correlation between depth and the piece of core in view.

• Ergonomics = Better Logging: There’s an indirect but real effect on accuracy when geologists are working with the core. If trays are easy to handle, move, and open/close (for those with covers), then geologists can focus on examining the core rather than wrestling with storage. Reduced fatigue and frustration mean more careful observations. For example, a geologist might need to tilt a tray to get a better look at a mineral reflection – a rigid plastic tray allows that with confidence; a flimsy wet wooden tray might start to flex or collapse, making one hesitant to move it. In essence, well-designed core trays act as reliable laboratory equipment, keeping the samples as pristine as possible from the field to the core shack so that the data recorded (structural measurements, recovery percentages, etc.) are as accurate as they can be.

In summary, core trays are not just passive containers. The right design actively preserves the fidelity of your geological data. By using sturdy, purpose-built trays (and handling them properly), you ensure that the cores you drilled meters of rock to retrieve remain in perfect condition for analysis. This results in more accurate geology, which leads to better decision-making for the project.

Selecting the Right Tray Manufacturer

Choosing a core tray isn’t only about the product itself – it’s also about the supplier behind it. A reliable tray manufacturer or supplier can make a huge difference in your procurement experience and the quality of trays you receive. Here are some considerations when evaluating core tray manufacturers and why it matters:

• Production Capacity and Lead Time: Large exploration or drilling programs might need thousands of trays, sometimes on short notice if drilling progress exceeds expectations. It’s important to source from a manufacturer with high production capacity. For instance, PCT (Plastic Core Trays) can produce on the order of 320,000 trays per month in their facility. This means they can fulfill big orders without long delays. A manufacturer with limited capacity might keep you waiting or deliver in batches, which can disrupt your drilling schedule if you run out of trays on site. Always inquire about how many trays a supplier can provide and in what timeframe – especially if your project is time-sensitive.

• Global Shipping and Support: Core drilling happens all over the world, often in remote regions. Your ideal core tray provider should have experience with international shipping and logistics. The best manufacturers have distribution networks or shipping partnerships that allow them to dispatch orders quickly to various continents. For example, a supplier that regularly ships to Africa, South America, Asia, and beyond will know how to handle export documentation and find the fastest routes. Some advertise impressively quick shipping times (sometimes within 1 day dispatch for stock items) to major mining regions. This capability ensures that even if you underestimated your tray needs, you can get more delivered to site or to your country without long interruption. Additionally, consider after-sales support – does the manufacturer help with any issues, like replacing any trays damaged in transit, or providing assembly parts (if lids or separators are separate)?

• Quality Assurance and Design Innovation: Look at the quality control measures of the manufacturer. Do they use high-grade recycled plastic? Do they have consistent molding processes to ensure every tray is identical and up to spec? Reputable manufacturers will highlight their quality standards. They may also have innovative design features that set their trays apart (patented lock mechanisms, ergonomic improvements, etc.). Reading case studies or user testimonials can give insight – for example, if a certain brand’s trays are known to last 20+ years in a major mining company’s operations, that’s a good sign. Also, manufacturers that invest in R&D (for example, developing trays from tougher recycled polymers or integrating solar-powered production) are likely to deliver a more advanced product.

• Sustainable Practices: If sustainability is a value for your company (as it increasingly is across the mining sector), consider the manufacturer’s environmental practices. Some manufacturers, like PCT, have integrated sustainability at the core of their operation – using solar energy (7.3 MW) to power factories, using 100% recycled materials, and even recycling their own scrap and old trays. Supporting such companies can contribute to your project’s ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. It also often correlates with a forward-thinking company culture that will likely provide good customer service and continuous product improvement.

• Cost vs. Value (ROI): Price is always a factor in procurement, but it should be weighed as cost of ownership, not just upfront cost. High-quality recycled plastic trays might come at a modest premium per unit compared to basic wood boxes, but consider the return on investment: you buy them once and use them for decades. Cheap alternatives that degrade quickly will need frequent replacement (so any initial savings evaporate fast) and could even risk your core if they fail. Moreover, quality trays protect your core, which is essentially protecting your potential orebody information – a single lost or mixed-up tray could cost far more in drilling redos or missed opportunities than the price difference of buying the better tray. Look for manufacturers that offer this quality and back it up perhaps with warranty or guarantee. Often the best core tray for mineral exploration is one that isn’t the cheapest, but provides the highest value by safeguarding your expensive drill core and lasting over the life of the project (and beyond).

• Customer Service and Customization: Finally, a good manufacturer will be responsive to your needs. Do they offer different colors for trays (useful if you want to color-code by project or rock type)? Can they provide accessories like core markers, lids, or pallet covers? How quickly do they respond to inquiries or issues? These “soft” factors make a difference, especially if your project is operating in challenging conditions where flexibility is key.

In conclusion, take the time to vet your core tray supplier. Many of the top mining operations partner with reliable manufacturers who can grow with their needs. A company like PCT, for example, with its large capacity, sustainable production, and global reach, exemplifies the kind of supplier that adds value beyond just selling a plastic box. By selecting the right manufacturer, you ensure a steady supply of quality trays, peace of mind about product performance, and a smoother overall operation.