Moisture Sampling is the standardized procedure of collecting representative portions of ore, concentrate, or bulk material from stockpiles, conveyors, or shipments to accurately determine overall moisture content. Because moisture can vary significantly across a stockpile or cargo hold due to weather exposure, segregation, or drainage patterns, proper sampling protocols are essential to avoid biased results. Iron ore trading relies heavily on rigorous moisture sampling standards, often governed by international codes such as those published by ISO or TOMRA, since moisture levels directly affect the commercial value of shipments and are subject to contractual penalties for non-compliance. Sampling typically involves taking multiple increments from different depths and locations, then combining and homogenizing them before sub-sampling for laboratory analysis. Bauxite and gold operations apply similar increment-based sampling approaches tailored to their specific material handling systems, such as conveyor belt cutters or stockpile augers. Diamond operations may incorporate moisture sampling within broader quality control programs for kimberlite or gravel processing. Proper documentation, chain-of-custody procedures, and equipment calibration are critical components of a defensible moisture sampling program, particularly when results are used for commercial settlement purposes.
