Macro Core Sampler Standard Operating Procedure

The Macro Core Sampler is assembled with a cutting shoe, drive head and the desired sample sleeves. The sampler is driven into the subsurface using the percussion of the direct push rig. The initial core sample collects in the sleeve and sampler. The sampler is then extracted from the boring and the sample sleeve is removed. A new sleeve is placed in the sample tube. The sampler is advanced to the last depth of penetration by adding a series of drive rods, and the procedure is repeated. The Macro Core Sampler also utilizes a retractable drive point in cases where the boring collapses or the walls constrict. The retractable drive point and piston are added to the Macro Core Sampler assembly. As before, the sampler is advanced to the last depth of penetration by adding a series of drive rods. As each drive rod is added, an inner rod is placed in the center of the drive rod to insure the drive point and piston remain in place. A final drive rod is added without the inner rod. This allows the drive point to retract into the sample tube as the sampler is advanced for one final push and the sample collects in the sleeve. The tool chain is then extracted from the boring and the sample sleeve is removed from the sample tube.