Exploration Notes and Techniques

There are a number of techniques for obtaining a core sample. The easiest and most standard is the auger rig. It is heavy, truck mounted, and very effective. The entire purpose is to try to obtain an “undisturbed” sample of the soils below grade. There are a variety of tools for that purpose; the standard split spoon sampler and the Shelby tube are the most common in the United States. In other countries the de”nition of soil sampling may be dependent upon the equipment available. Figure 6.1 shows a typical rig.