ROCKLABS LIMITED

ROCKLABS is known today as a world leader in the manufacture of sample preparation equipment and gold reference materials.

When ROCKLABS was established in 1969 it was a commercial laboratory specialising in geochemical analysis and fire assaying. Clients were mainly mineral exploration companies from overseas. Because sample preparation equipment was difficult to obtain and maintain, ROCKLABS decided to manufacture it’s own equipment.

Clients who visited ROCKLABS were very impressed with the equipment and requests were received to manufacture equipment for them. In 1975, a decision was made to manufacture sample preparation equipment on a commercial basis. Sales of ring and puck mills expanded very rapidly. Larger premises were purchased to facilitate commercial production.

During the 1970’s the main product was the Ring Mill. From the 1980’s onwards many new and unique products have been developed and patented by ROCKLABS. The company’s origin in analytical chemistry is reflected in the customer list, that includes many research laboratories as well as those in industry.

ROCKLABS philosophy remains unchanged, to complement its quality products with simply the best service it can provide.

ROCKLABS has three chemists who operate a free testing and advisory service for customers. Samples can be tested at ROCKLABS for no charge.

Since the 1980’s the aim of the company has been to mechanise and automate sample preparation. This reduces labour costs, greatly improves working conditions, reduces chances of injury and improves sample quality.

Emphasis has been placed on the gold mining industry which is well known for its sampling problems. ROCKLABS has also applied developments made in the gold industry to other industries. Customers using ROCKLABS Mechanised and Automated sample preparation systems comprise a broad spectrum of the mining industry including companies such as Anglogold, Barrick Gold, Diavik Diamond, Hamersley Iron, Newmont Gold, Placer Dome and Timan Bauxite.

ROCKLABS customers are located in over 85 countries. ROCKLABS staff are also an international group, originating from Australia, England, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Romania, Russia, Scotland, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

ROCKLABS staff have a wide range of expertise in geochemistry, chemistry, engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, automation, machine design, geology, marketing etc.