This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition (i.e. ISO 3081:1973). Specifies methods for the purpose of determining the quality characteristics of the consignment. The methods are applicable for example to concentrates and agglomerates of iron ores to obtain samples for the determination of particle size distribution, moisture content, chemical composition, and physical properties. The sampling is carried out among other things from conveyors, railway wagons, ships and stockpiles or during loading or discharging of a consignment in cases where manual sampling can be carried out safely.