How many samples should be taken from a mini stockpile?

Taking five samples from a mini stockpile is the recommended approach because it provides a more representative quality assessment of the material in the stockpile. This number strikes a balance between thoroughness and practicality.

When sampling, the goal is to achieve a representative mixture that reflects the overall characteristics of the aggregate within the mini stockpile. Five samples allow for a better statistical analysis, which can identify variability in the material. Collecting too few samples may not capture the heterogeneity of the stockpile, while collecting too many can be unnecessary and inefficient without yielding significantly better results.

Thus, by following the guideline of five samples, technicians can ensure a more reliable and accurate representation of the aggregate's quality, supporting more informed decision-making for construction projects.