ISO 3087:2020
(Main)Iron ores — Determination of the moisture content of a lot
Iron ores — Determination of the moisture content of a lot
This document specifies a method for the determination of the moisture content of a lot of iron ore. This method is applicable to all iron ores, whether natural or processed.
Minerais de fer — Détermination de l'humidité d'un lot
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INTERNATIONAL ISO
STANDARD 3087
Fifth edition
2020-07
Iron ores — Determination of the
moisture content of a lot
Minerais de fer — Détermination de l'humidité d'un lot
Reference number
ISO 3087:2020(E)
©
ISO 2020
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2020
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2020 – All rights reserved
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
Contents Page
Foreword .iv
Introduction .v
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 1
5 Apparatus . 1
6 Samples . 2
7 Procedure. 2
7.1 Number of moisture measurements . 2
7.2 Reference methods . 2
7.2.1 General. 2
7.2.2 Normal reference method . 3
7.2.3 Optional reference method for ores of high combined water content . 3
7.3 Alternative methods . 3
7.3.1 General. 3
7.3.2 Adjustment of drying time only . 4
8 Verification . 4
9 Calculation and expression of results . 4
9.1 Test portion . 4
9.2 Lot . 4
10 Test report . 7
Annex A (informative) Determination of moisture content of adhesive or wet iron ores .8
Annex B (normative) Corrections for sprinkled water and/or rainwater .10
Annex C (informative) Precision of moisture measurement .15
Annex D (informative) Examples of test reports .16
Bibliography .35
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards
bodies (ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out
through ISO technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical
committee has been established has the right to be represented on that committee. International
organizations, governmental and non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work.
ISO collaborates closely with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of
electrotechnical standardization.
The procedures used to develop this document and those intended for its further maintenance are
described in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1. In particular, the different approval criteria needed for the
different types of ISO documents should be noted. This document was drafted in accordance with the
editorial rules of the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 (see www .iso .org/ directives).
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights. Details of
any patent rights identified during the development of the document will be in the Introduction and/or
on the ISO list of patent declarations received (see www .iso .org/ patents).
Any trade name used in this document is information given for the convenience of users and does not
constitute an endorsement.
For an explanation of the voluntary nature of standards, the meaning of ISO specific terms and
expressions related to conformity assessment, as well as information about ISO's adherence to the
World Trade Organization (WTO) principles in the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), see www .iso .org/
iso/ foreword .html.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 102, Iron ore and direct reduced iron,
Subcommittee SC 1, Sampling.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition (ISO 3087:2011), which has been technically
revised. The main changes compared with the previous edition are as follows:
— the existing two 105 °C moisture determination methods have been confirmed to serve as reference
methods;
— alternative moisture determination methods are now allowed if they can be shown to result in
equivalent moisture contents as the reference methods;
— the weighing device readability requirement has been changed from 0,05 % to 0,01 % equivalent of
test portion mass;
— Clause 9 has been revised;
— Annex D has been updated with new example reports.
Any feedback or questions on this document should be directed to the user’s national standards body. A
complete listing of these bodies can be found at www .iso .org/ members .html.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
Introduction
Currently, large tonnages of iron ore are traded internationally and a small error in the measured
moisture content [mass fraction (%)] of a lot has a considerable effect on the commercial transaction.
The correct determination of moisture content of a lot is, therefore, a matter of importance for both the
purchaser and the vendor.
This document does not address the determination of the hygroscopic moisture content of a test sample
for chemical analysis. If the hygroscopic moisture content is required to be determined, reference
should be made to ISO 2596:2006.
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INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO 3087:2020(E)
Iron ores — Determination of the moisture content of a lot
1 Scope
This document specifies a method for the determination of the moisture content of a lot of iron ore. This
method is applicable to all iron ores, whether natural or processed.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 3082, Iron ores — Sampling and sample preparation procedures
ISO 3085, Iron ores — Experimental methods for checking the precision of sampling, sample preparation
and measurement
ISO 3086, Iron ores — Experimental methods for checking the bias of sampling
ISO 11323, Iron ore and direct reduced iron — Vocabulary
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 11323 apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https:// www .iso .org/ obp
— IEC Electropedia: available at http:// www .electropedia .org/
4 Principle
Dry the test portion in air at 105 °C and measure the loss in mass. Express the moisture content as the
mass loss relative to the original mass of the sample as a mass fraction (%).
5 Apparatus
5.1 Drying pan, with a smooth surface, free from contamination and capable of accommodating the
specified quantity of a test portion in a layer of nominal thickness not greater than 31,5 mm.
5.2 Drying oven, equipped with a temperature indicator and control apparatus capable of regulating
the temperature at any point in the oven at 105 °C ± 5 °C and so designed as to maintain this temperature
with a current of air to ensure efficient drying but without any loss of sample, and fitted with a fan that
allows for both the circulation and change of air.
5.3 Weighing device, with readability equivalent to at least 0,01 % of the Table 1 minimum test
portion mass. The weighing device should be protected from the influence of heat.
The capacity of the weighing device shall be enough for the combined mass of the drying pan and the
initial mass of the test portion.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
6 Samples
Test samples that have been taken and prepared in accordance with ISO 3082 shall be used. The
mass of a test portion, in relation to its nominal top size, is specified in Table 1, in accordance with
ISO 3082:2017, 10.6.
The nominal top size of the moisture test sample shall be 31,5 mm or less. Samples with a nominal
top size greater than 31,5 mm shall be crushed prior to extraction of test samples for moisture
determination. When it is difficult to conduct crushing and dividing owing to a sample being adhesive
or excessively wet, the sample may be partially dried in accordance with the procedure in Annex A.
For convenience, the test portion of mass 10 kg for ore of particle size less than 31,5 mm may be divided
into two portions, each of which is subjected to moisture measurement. In calculating the results, the
mean of the two values of initial mass and the mean of the two values of the drying loss in mass should
be used.
Table 1 — Minimum mass of test portion
Nominal top size of test Minimum mass of test
portion portion
mm kg
Over Up to and
including
22,4 31,5 10
10,0 22,4 5
― 10,0 1
7 Procedure
7.1 Number of moisture measurements
Carry out one moisture measurement per test portion on the number of test portions specified in
Table 2, in accordance with the conditions of preparation of the test sample.
In order to minimize losses of moisture to the atmosphere, it is necessary to perform all the initial
weighings of the test portions as quickly as possible after obtaining those test portions.
Table 2 — Number of test portions
Preparation of test sample Number of partial samples per lot Number of test portions to be tested
From gross sample — 4 per gross sample
2 4 per partial sample
From partial sample 3 to 7 2 minimum per partial sample
≥ 8 1 minimum per partial sample
From increment — 1 minimum per increment
7.2 Reference methods
7.2.1 General
The moisture determination shall be conducted in accordance with 7.2.2 or, optionally for ores with
8 % or more of combined water, in accordance with 7.2.3.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
7.2.2 Normal reference method
Apply the following procedure.
a) Spread the test portion in a layer of nominal thickness not greater than 31,5 mm in the tared drying
pan (5.1) and determine the total mass immediately. Record the total mass, the mass of the drying
pan, the initial mass of the test portion (m ) and the numerical value of 0,05 % of m . To reduce
1 1
drying time, it is recommended that the layer-thickness of the sample be kept as low as possible. It
should be specified for particular ores by check experiments carried out beforehand.
b) Place the drying pan with the test portion in the drying oven (5.2) set at 105 °C, and maintain this
temperature for not less than 4 h. Remove the drying pan with the test portion from the drying
oven and weigh it immediately while still hot in order to minimize any reabsorption of moisture.
Otherwise, weigh the test portion after cooling in air in a container having a close-fitting airtight
lid. In each case, report the method of weighing.
c) Once more, place the drying pan with the test portion in the drying oven, heat for a further 1 h, and
then repeat the weighing.
d) Repeat the procedure described in item c) until the difference in mass between subsequent
measurements becomes 0,05 % or less of the initial mass of the test portion. Record the total mass
and the mass of the test portion after each additional hour of drying (m and onwards).
2
7.2.3 Optional reference method for ores of high combined water content
For ores containing 8 % or more combined water, the following procedure may be applied.
a) Spread the test portion in a layer of nominal thickness not greater than 31,5 mm in the tared drying
pan (5.1) and determine the total mass immediately. Record the total mass, the mass of the drying
pan and the initial mass of the test portion (m ).
1
b) Place the drying pan with the test portion in the drying oven (5.2) set at 105 °C and maintain this
temperature for not less than 24 h. Remove the drying pan with the test portion from the drying
oven and weigh it immediately while still hot in order to minimize any reabsorption of moisture.
Otherwise, weigh the test portion after cooling in air in a container having a close-fitting airtight
lid. Record the total mass and the mass of the test portion after drying (m₂). In each case, report the
method of weighing.
7.3 Alternative methods
7.3.1 General
Alternative methods refer to the potential use of different technology, such as ovens that do not rely on
convection drying alone, or to procedures that potentially differ in terms of oven temperature (up to
140 °C) and time from what is described in 7.2, but which do not deviate from the conditions stipulated
in Clause 6 and 7.1 (minimum mass of test portion and number of portions to be tested).
Such alternative methods or modifications for determining the moisture content are allowed where
check experiments carried out beforehand, which demonstrate satisfactorily to all parties concerned
that an equivalent moisture result is obtained when compared to the applicable reference method
specified in 7.2. This demonstration shall include ISO 3086 bias testing using a relevant bias of no more
than 0,05 % moisture and where the confidence interval includes the zero. Further, the precision of the
alternative method shall be demonstrated by ISO 3085 to be the same or better than achieved by the
applicable reference method.
If the sample is subsequently to be used for multiple use, the chemistry, LOI and size distribution of the
dried remains shall be checked by means of ISO 3086 to ensure they are not different to dried remains
from equivalent reference moisture testing methods. If any changes are identified, the alternative
method shall be discarded.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
7.3.2 Adjustment of drying time only
In the case where an alternative method changes only the drying times specified in 7.2.2 in order to
eliminate repeat weighings for verification of constant mass, then it is only necessary to demonstrate
equivalence of precision and moisture result.
8 Verification
Regular checking of apparatus and procedures is essential to verify the test results. Checks shall be
carried out prior to the commencement of a routine test in accordance with this document and at
regular intervals thereafter. The frequency of checking is a matter for each laboratory to determine. A
detailed record of all verification activities shall be maintained for the following items:
— sprinkled water measurement:
— volumenometer;
— rainfall measurement:
— rain gauge;
— moisture test:
— oven temperature/temperature regulation;
— circulation and change of air in oven;
— weighing device.
9 Calculation and expression of results
9.1 Test portion
The result of the determination of the moisture content, w , expressed as a mass fraction (%), for each
i
test portion, is given by Formula (1) and reported to the second decimal place:
mm−
12
w = ×100 (1)
i
m
1
where
m is the initial mass, in grams, of the test portion;
1
m is the mass, in grams, of the test portion after drying.
2
An illustration of moisture determination of a random test portion is shown in an example test report
in Table D.1.
9.2 Lot
9.2.1 The moisture content of a lot is given by one of the Formulae (2) to (6), as the occasion may
demand, and reported to the first decimal place.
Sprinkled water and/or rainwater over iron ore during loading and/or unloading operation, i.e. moisture
added after/before the point where sampling has taken place, shall be corrected in accordance with the
procedure specified in Annex B.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
9.2.2 When moisture determination is conducted on the gross sample from the lot, the moisture of the
lot is determined as follows.
When the range of the four test results does not exceed 1,3r, as given in Table 3, the arithmetic mean w
of the four results shall be the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot as given by
Formula (2):
w ++w w +w
12 34
w= (2)
4
where w , w , w and w are the results of the determinations of the moisture contents, expressed as a
1 2 3 4
mass fraction (%), on each of the four test portions.
When the range of the four test results exceeds 1,3r, as given in Table 3, the median shall be taken as
the moisture content of the lot. The median of four test results is defined as the mean of the two non-
extreme test results.
Table 3 — Repeatability limit of moisture determination on the gross sample
Average of moisture content Repeatability limit Repeatability limit
a
w r 1,3r
mass fraction (%) mass fraction (%) mass fraction (%)
w≤3 0,20 0,26
36<≤w 0,25 0,33
0,31 0,40
6
a
The theoretical background of the repeatability limit is shown in Annex C.
An illustration of moisture determination of a gross sampled lot with four test portions, where the
range of the four moistures do not exceed 1,3r, is shown in an example test report in Table D.2.
An illustration of moisture determination of a gross sampled lot with four test portions, where the
range of the four moistures exceed 1,3r, is shown in an example test report in Table D.3.
9.2.3 When mass-basis sampling has been performed and moisture determination is conducted on
each partial sample, the weighted mean, w , of the results from all the partial samples, considering the
number of increments for each partial sample, shall be the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction
(%), of the lot, as given by Formula (3):
k
Nw
∑
ii
i=1
w= (3)
k
N
∑
i
i=1
where
k is the number of partial samples;
N is the number of increments in the ith partial sample;
i
w
is the result of the determination of the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of
i
the ith partial sample, in accordance with Table 2, using either four or two as the number of test
portions.
When partial samples are used and four test portions are conducted in any partial sample, the criteria
established in 9.2.2 may be applied.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
Illustrations of moisture determination of mass-basis sampled lots with two, four and eight partial
samples are shown in the example test reports given in Annex D in Tables D.4, D.6 and D.8, respectively.
If it is impracticable to sample the lot as a whole, or desirable to sample a lot in separate parts of unequal
mass as in the case of time-basis sampling, the moisture content of each part shall be determined
independently and the weighted mean, w , of the results, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot
calculated from the individual results using Formula (4):
k
mw
∑
i i
i=1
w= (4)
k
m
∑ i
i=1
where
k is the number of partial samples;
m is the mass of the ith part;
i
is the result of the determination of the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of
w
i
the ith part.
Illustrations of moisture determination of time-basis sampled lots with two, four and eight partial
samples are shown in the example test reports given in Annex D, in Tables D.5, D.7 and D.9, respectively.
9.2.4 When moisture determination is conducted on each increment during mass basis sampling, the
arithmetic mean, w , of the results for all increments obtained in accordance with 9.1 shall be the
moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot as given by Formula (5):
n
w
∑
i
i=1
w= (5)
n
where
n is the number of increments;
w is the result of the determination of the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of
i
the ith increment.
An illustration of moisture determination of a mass-basis sampled lot where moisture is individually
determined for each of 30 increments, is shown in an example test report in Table D.10.
When moisture determination is conducted on each increment during time basis sampling, the weighted
mean, w , of the results for all increments obtained in accordance with 9.1 shall be the moisture content,
expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot as given by Formula (6):
k
mw
ii
∑
i=1
w= (6)
k
m
∑ i
i=1
where
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
k is the number of increments;
m is the mass of the ith part that the increment represents;
i
w is the increment moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%).
i
An illustration of moisture determination of a time-basis sampled lot, where moisture is individually
determined for each of 25 increments, is shown in an example test report in Table D.11.
10 Test report
The test report shall contain the following information:
a) a reference to this document, i.e. ISO 3087:2020;
b) the details necessary for the identification of the sample;
c) the results of the test;
d) the reference number of the result;
e) the details of the procedure (including apparatus, temperature and time used in the test);
f) any characteristics noticed during the determination, and any operation not specified in this
document;
g) the date of the test.
Examples of test reports are shown in Annex D.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
Annex A
(informative)
Determination of moisture content of adhesive or wet iron ores
A.1 General
When it is difficult to conduct sieving, crushing, and dividing, owing to a sample being adhesive or
excessively wet, the sample may be partially dried until preparation can be conducted without difficulty.
In this case, the moisture content of the lot shall be obtained by using the partial drying method in
accordance with the procedure specified in this annex. In handling the test sample and weighing
the initial mass and partially dried mass of the test sample, attention shall be paid to ensuring the
measurement precision of the partially dried moisture content.
A.2 Procedure
A.2.1 Determine the initial mass of the test sample.
A.2.2 Spread the test sample in a uniform thickness and dry it in air or in a drying apparatus at a
temperature no higher than 105 °C. The choice of temperature and time for this partial drying stage shall
not exceed a point where an ore is likely to reabsorb moisture during subsequent processing.
A.2.3 After partial drying, again determine the mass of the test sample.
A.2.4 Calculate the partially dried moisture content, w , expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the test
p
sample using Formula (A.1):
′ ′
mm−
12
w = ×100 (A.1)
p
′
m
1
where
m′ is the initial mass, in grams, of the test sample;
1
′
m is the mass, in grams, of the test sample after partial drying.
2
A.2.5 Prepare the test portions for moisture measurement from the partially dried sample in
accordance with the procedure in ISO 3082.
A.2.6 Determine the drying loss of the test portion in accordance with 7.2 and calculate the additional
moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), in accordance with 9.1.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
A.2.7 Calculate the total (as received) moisture content, w , expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the
pd
test sample using Formula (A.2):
100−w
p
w =+w ×w (A.2)
pd p d
100
where w is the additional moisture content obtained in accordance with 9.1 after partial drying,
d
expressed as a mass fraction (%).
A.2.8 Determine the moisture content, as a mass fraction (%), of the lot in accordance with 9.2.
A.2.9 If the mass of the moisture sample is not large, the entire quantity of the sample may be dried in
order to conduct the moisture determination in accordance with the method specified in the body of this
document.
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ISO 3087:2020(E)
Annex B
(normative)
Corrections for sprinkled water and/or rainwater
B.1 General
B.1.1 In many countries, strict environmental regulations must be observed in the iron ore and steel
industry. When water is sprinkled over iron ore during loading and/or unloading operations to prevent
dust evolution, the moisture content of a lot shall be corrected, in accordance with the procedure
specified in this annex, for the mass of water sprinkled.
This annex also describes a method for correcting the moisture content of a lot containing rainwater.
B.1.2 Water is sprinkled for the following reasons:
a) environmental regulations at loading and/or unloading ports;
b) difficulty of handling iron ores due to ore characteristics, weather conditions, handling
equipment, etc.
B.1.3 Correction for rainwater shall be made whenever rainfall occurs during the loading or unloading
operations, and the moisture content of the lot is known to have been affected.
B.2 Corrections for sprinkled water
B.2.1 General
In the case of unloading a lot, sprinkled water refers to water sprinkled (or sprayed) in the vessel holds
and/or on any sections extending to a point where samples are taken. In the case of l
...
DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD
ISO/DIS 3087
ISO/TC 102/SC 1 Secretariat: JISC
Voting begins on: Voting terminates on:
2019-12-03 2020-02-25
Iron ores — Determination of the moisture content of a lot
Minerais de fer — Détermination de l'humidité d'un lot
ICS: 73.060.10
THIS DOCUMENT IS A DRAFT CIRCULATED
FOR COMMENT AND APPROVAL. IT IS
THEREFORE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND MAY
NOT BE REFERRED TO AS AN INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD UNTIL PUBLISHED AS SUCH.
IN ADDITION TO THEIR EVALUATION AS
BEING ACCEPTABLE FOR INDUSTRIAL,
This document is circulated as received from the committee secretariat.
TECHNOLOGICAL, COMMERCIAL AND
USER PURPOSES, DRAFT INTERNATIONAL
STANDARDS MAY ON OCCASION HAVE TO
BE CONSIDERED IN THE LIGHT OF THEIR
POTENTIAL TO BECOME STANDARDS TO
WHICH REFERENCE MAY BE MADE IN
Reference number
NATIONAL REGULATIONS.
ISO/DIS 3087:2019(E)
RECIPIENTS OF THIS DRAFT ARE INVITED
TO SUBMIT, WITH THEIR COMMENTS,
NOTIFICATION OF ANY RELEVANT PATENT
RIGHTS OF WHICH THEY ARE AWARE AND TO
©
PROVIDE SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. ISO 2019
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ISO/DIS 3087:2019(E)
COPYRIGHT PROTECTED DOCUMENT
© ISO 2019
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, or required in the context of its implementation, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or utilized otherwise in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, or posting
on the internet or an intranet, without prior written permission. Permission can be requested from either ISO at the address
below or ISO’s member body in the country of the requester.
ISO copyright office
CP 401 • Ch. de Blandonnet 8
CH-1214 Vernier, Geneva
Phone: +41 22 749 01 11
Fax: +41 22 749 09 47
Email: copyright@iso.org
Website: www.iso.org
Published in Switzerland
ii © ISO 2019 – All rights reserved
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ISO/DIS 3087:2019(E)
Contents Page
Foreword . ⅳ
Introduction . ⅴ
1 Scope . 1
2 Normative references . 1
3 Terms and definitions . 1
4 Principle . 1
5 Apparatus . 1
6 Samples . 2
7 Procedure . 2
7.1 Number of moisture measurements . 2
7.2 Reference methods . 2
7.2.1 General . 2
7.2.2 Normal reference method . 3
7.2.3 Optional reference method for ores of high combined water content . 3
7.3 Alternative methods . 3
7.3.1 General . 3
7.3.2 Adjustment of drying time only . 4
8 Verification . 4
9 Calculation and expression of results . 4
9.1 Test portion . 4
9.2 Lot . 5
10 Test report . 7
Annex A (normative) Determination of moisture content of adhesive or wet iron ores . 8
Annex B (normative) Corrections for sprinkled water and/or rainwater . 10
Annex C (informative) Precision of moisture measurement . 15
Annex D (informative) Examples of test reports . 16
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ISO/DIS 3087:2019(E)
Foreword
ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies
(ISO member bodies). The work of preparing International Standards is normally carried out through ISO
technical committees. Each member body interested in a subject for which a technical committee has been
established has the right to be represented on that committee. International organizations, governmental and
non-governmental, in liaison with ISO, also take part in the work. ISO collaborates closely with the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) on all matters of electrotechnical standardization.
International Standards are drafted in accordance with the rules given in the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The main task of technical committees is to prepare International Standards. Draft International Standards
adopted by the technical committees are circulated to the member bodies for voting. Publication as an
International Standard requires approval by at least 75 % of the member bodies casting a vote.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. ISO shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document was prepared by Technical Committee ISO/TC 102, Iron ore and direct reduced iron,
Subcommittee SC 1, Sampling.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition (ISO 3087:2011), which has been technically revised.
The main technical changes to this edition are as follows:
— Confirmation that the existing two 105 °C moisture determination methods are to serve as reference
methods;
— Allowing for alternative moisture determination methods if they can be shown to result in equivalent
moisture contents as the reference methods;
— Changing weighing device readability requirement from 0,05 % to 0,01 % equivalent of test portion mass;
— Revising clause 9: Calculation and expression of results;
— Updating Annex D with new example reports.
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ISO/DIS 3087:2019(E)
Introduction
Currently, large tonnages of iron ore are traded internationally and a small error in the measured moisture
content [mass fraction (%)] of a lot has a considerable effect on the commercial transaction. The correct
determination of moisture content of a lot is, therefore, a matter of importance for both the purchaser and the
vendor.
This International Standard does not address the determination of the hygroscopic moisture content of a test
sample for chemical analysis. If the hygroscopic moisture content is required to be determined, reference
should be made to ISO 2596:2006, Iron ores — Determination of hygroscopic moisture in analytical
samples — Gravimetric, Karl Fischer and mass-loss methods.
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DRAFT INTERNATIONAL STANDARD ISO/DIS 3087:2019(E)
Iron ores — Determination of the moisture content of a lot
1 Scope
This International Standard specifies a method for the determination of the moisture content of a lot of iron ore.
This method is applicable to all iron ores, whether natural or processed.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
ISO 3082, Iron ores — Sampling and sample preparation procedures
ISO 11323, Iron ore and direct reduced iron — Vocabulary
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in ISO 11323 apply.
4 Principle
Dry the test portion in air at 105 °C and measure the loss in mass. Express the moisture content as the mass
loss relative to the original mass of the sample as a mass fraction (%).
5 Apparatus
5.1 Drying pan, with a smooth surface, free from contamination and capable of accommodating the
specified quantity of a test portion in a layer of nominal thickness not greater than 31,5 mm.
5.2 Drying oven, equipped with a temperature indicator and control apparatus capable of regulating the
temperature at any point in the oven at 105 °C 5 °C and so designed as to maintain this temperature with a
current of air to ensure efficient drying but without any loss of sample, and fitted with a fan that allows for both
the circulation and change of air.
5.3 Weighing device, with readability equivalent to at least 0,01 % of the Table 1 minimum test portion
mass.
The capacity of the weighing device shall be enough for the combined mass of the drying pan and the initial
mass of the test portion.
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6 Samples
Test samples which have been taken and prepared in accordance with ISO 3082 shall be used. The mass of
a test portion, in relation to its nominal top size, is specified in Table 1, in accordance with ISO 3082-2017,
clause 10.6.
The nominal top size of the moisture test sample shall be 31,5 mm or less. Samples with a nominal top size
greater than 31,5 mm shall be crushed prior to extraction of test samples for moisture determination. When it
is difficult to conduct crushing and dividing owing to a sample being adhesive or excessively wet, the sample
may be partially dried in accordance with the procedure in Annex A.
Table 1 — Minimum mass of test portion
Nominal top size of test Minimum mass of test
portion portion
mm kg
Over up to and
including
22,4 31,5 10
10,0 22,4 5
― 10,0 1
7 Procedure
7.1 Number of moisture measurements
Carry out one moisture measurement per test portion on the number of test portions specified in Table 2,
according to the conditions of preparation of the test sample.
Table 2 — Number of test portions
Preparation of test sample Number of partial samples per lot Number of test portions to be tested
From gross sample — 4 per gross sample
2 4 per partial sample
3 to 7 2 minimum per partial sample
From partial sample
8 1 minimum per partial sample
From increment — 1 minimum per increment
In order to minimize losses of moisture to the atmosphere, it is necessary to perform all the initial weighings of
the test portions as quickly as possible after obtaining those test portions.
7.2 Reference methods
7.2.1 General
The moisture determination shall be conducted in accordance with 7.2.2 or, optionally, for ores with 8 % or
more of combined water in accordance with 7.2.3.
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7.2.2 Normal reference method
a) Spread the test portion in a layer of nominal thickness not greater than 31,5 mm in the tared drying pan
(5.1) and determine the total mass immediately. Record the total mass, the mass of the drying pan, the
initial mass of the test portion (m ) and the numerical value of 0,05 % of m .
1 1
b) Place the drying pan with the test portion in the drying oven (5.2) set at 105 °C, and maintain this
temperature for not less than 4 h. Remove the drying pan with the test portion from the drying oven and
weigh it immediately while still hot in order to minimize any reabsorption of moisture. Otherwise, weigh
the test portion after cooling in air in a container having a close-fitting airtight lid. In each case, report the
method of weighing.
c) Once more, place the drying pan with the test portion in the drying oven, heat for a further 1 h, and then
repeat the weighing.
d) Repeat the procedure described in item c) until the difference in mass between subsequent
measurements becomes 0,05 % or less of the initial mass of the test portion.
NOTE 1 The weighing device should be protected from the influence of heat.
NOTE 2 To reduce drying time, it is recommended that layer-thickness of the sample be kept as low as possible. It
should be specified for particular ores by check experiments carried out beforehand.
NOTE 3 For convenience, the test portion of mass 10 kg for ore of particle size less than 31,5 mm may be divided into
two portions, each of which is subjected to moisture measurement. In calculating the results, the mean of the two values of
initial mass and the mean of the two values of the drying loss in mass should be used.
7.2.3 Optional reference method for ores of high combined water content
For ores containing 8 % or more combined water, the following procedure may be applied.
a) Spread the test portion in a layer of nominal thickness not greater than 31,5 mm in the tared drying pan
(5.1) and determine the total mass immediately. Record the total mass, the mass of the drying pan and
the initial mass of the test portion (m1).
b) Place the drying pan with the test portion in the drying oven (5.2) set at 105 °C and maintain this
temperature for not less than 24 h. Remove the drying pan with the test portion from the drying oven and
weigh it immediately while still hot in order to minimize any reabsorption of moisture. Otherwise, weigh
the test portion after cooling in air in a container having a close-fitting airtight lid. Record the total mass
after drying. In each case, report the method of weighing.
NOTE The notes in 7.2.2 apply to this subclause
7.3 Alternative methods
7.3.1 General
Alternative methods refer to the potential use of different technology, such as ovens that do not rely on
convection drying alone or to procedures that potentially differ in terms of oven temperature (up to 140 °C)
and time from what is described in clause 7.2, but which do not deviate from the conditions stipulated in
Clause 6 and Clause 7.1 (minimum mass of test portion and number of portions to be tested).
Such alternative methods or modifications for determining the moisture content are allowed where check
experiments carried out beforehand, demonstrate satisfactorily to all parties concerned, that an equivalent
moisture result is obtained when compared to the applicable reference method specified in 7.2. This
demonstration shall include ISO 3086 bias testing using a relevant bias of no more than 0,05 % moisture and
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where the confidence interval includes the zero. Further, the precision of the alternative method needs to be
demonstrated by ISO 3085 to be the same or better than achieved by the applicable reference method.
If the sample is subsequently to be utilized for multiple use, the chemistry, LOI and size distribution of the
dried remains shall be checked by means of ISO 3086 to ensure they are not different to dried remains from
equivalent reference moisture testing methods. If any changes are identified, the alternative method must be
discarded.
7.3.2 Adjustment of drying time only
In the case where an alternative method changes only the drying times specified in 7.2.2 in order to eliminate
repeat weighings for verification of constant mass, then it is only necessary to demonstrate equivalence of
precision and moisture result.
NOTE The notes in 7.2.2 apply to this subclause
8 Verification
Regular checking of apparatus and procedures is essential to verify the test results. Checks shall be carried
out prior to the commencement of a routine test in accordance with this International Standard and at regular
intervals thereafter. The frequency of checking is a matter for each laboratory to determine. A detailed record
of all verification activities shall be maintained for the following items:
a) Sprinkled water measurement
— volumenometer;
b) Rainfall measurement
— rain gauge;
c) Moisture test
— oven temperature/temperature regulation;
— circulation and change of air in oven;
— weighing device.
9 Calculation and expression of results
9.1 Test portion
The result of the determination of the moisture content, w , expressed as a mass fraction (%), for each test
i
portion, is given by Formula (1) and reported to the second decimal place.
mm−
12
(1)
w=100
i
m
1
where
m is the initial mass, in grams, of the test portion;
1
m is the mass, in grams, of the test portion after drying.
2
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An illustration of moisture determination of a random test portion is shown in an example test report in
Annex D, Table D.1.
9.2 Lot
The moisture content of a lot is given by one of the Formulas (2) to (6) as the occasion may demand, and
reported to the first decimal place.
Sprinkled water and/or rainwater over iron ore during loading and/or unloading operation, in other words
moisture added after/before the point where sampling has taken place, shall be corrected according to the
procedure specified in Annex B.
9.2.1 When moisture determination is conducted on the gross sample from the lot, the moisture of the lot is
determined as follows.
When the range of the four test results does not exceed 1,3r as given in Table 3, the arithmetic mean, w , of
the four results shall be the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot as given by
Formula (2).
w+++w w w
1 2 3 4
w = (2)
4
where w , w , w and w are the results of the determinations of the moisture contents, expressed as a mass
1 2 3 4
fraction (%), on each of the four test portions.
When the range of the four test results exceeds 1,3r as given in Table 3, the median shall be taken as the
moisture content of the lot. The median of four test results is defined as the mean of the two non-extreme test
results.
Table 3 — Repeatability limit of moisture determination on the gross sample
Average of moisture content Repeatability limit Repeatability limit
a
w
r 1,3r
mass fraction (%) mass fraction (%)
mass fraction (%)
w 3 0,20 0,26
36w 0,25 0,33
6 w 0,31 0,40
a
The theoretical background of the repeatability limit is shown in Annex C.
An illustration of moisture determination of a gross sampled lot with four test portions, where the range of the
four moistures do not exceed 1,3r, is shown in an example test report in Annex D, Table D.2.
An illustration of moisture determination of a gross sampled lot with four test portions, where the range of the
four moistures exceed 1,3r, is shown in an example test report in Annex D, Table D.3.
9.2.2 When mass-basis sampling has been performed and moisture determination is conducted on each
partial sample, the weighted mean, w̿, of the results from all the partial samples, considering the number of
increments for each partial sample, shall be the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot,
as given by Formula (3).
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(3)
where
k is the number of partial samples;
N is the number of increments in the ith partial sample;
i
wi is the result of the determination of the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the ith
partial sample, according to Table 2 using as the number of test portions either 4 or 2.
NOTE: When partial samples are used and 4 test portions are conducted in any partial sample, the criteria established in
9.2.1 may be applied.
Illustrations of moisture determination of mass-basis sampled lots with two, four and eight partial samples are
shown in example test reports in Annex D, in respectively Table D.4, Table D.6 and Table D.8.
If it is impracticable to sample the lot as a whole, or desirable to sample a lot in separate parts of unequal
mass as in the case of time-basis sampling, the moisture content of each part shall be determined
independently and the weighted mean, w̿, of the results, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot
calculated from the individual results using Formula (4).
k
m w
i
i
i=1
w = (4)
k
m
i
i=1
where
k is the number of partial samples;
m is the mass of the ith part;
i
w is the result of the determination of the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the
i
ith part.
Illustrations of moisture determination of time-basis sampled lots with two, four and eight partial samples are
shown in example test reports in Annex D, in respectively Table D.5, Table D.7 and Table D.9.
9.2.3 When moisture determination is conducted on each increment during mass basis sampling, the
arithmetic mean, w , of the results for all increments obtained according to 9.1 shall be the moisture content,
expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the lot as given by Formula (5).
n
w
i
i=1
w = (5)
n
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where
n is the number of increments;
w is the result of the determination of the moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the
i
ith increment.
An illustration of moisture determination of a mass-basis sampled lot where moisture is individually
determined for each of thirty increments, is shown in an example test report in Annex D, Table D.10.
When moisture determination is conducted on each increment during time basis sampling, the weighted mean,
,of the results for all increments obtained according to 9.1 shall be the moisture content, expressed as a
mass fraction (%), of the lot as given by Formula (6).
(6)
where
k is the number of increments;
m is the mass of the ith part that the increment represents;
i
w is the increment moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%).
i
An illustration of moisture determination of a time-basis sampled lot, where moisture is individually determined
for each of twenty-five increments, is shown in an example test report in Annex D, Table D.11.
10 Test report
The test report shall contain the following information. Examples of test reports are shown in Annex D.
a) A reference to this International Standard, i.e. ISO 3087:20--;
b) details necessary for the identification of the sample;
c) result of the test;
d) reference number of the result;
e) details of procedure (including apparatus, temperature and time used in the test);
f) any characteristics noticed during the determination, and any operation not specified in this International
Standard.
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Annex A
(normative)
Determination of moisture content of adhesive or wet iron ores
Introduction
When it is difficult to conduct sieving, crushing and dividing, owing to a sample being adhesive or excessively
wet, the sample may be partially dried until preparation can be conducted without difficulty.
In this case, the moisture content of the lot shall be obtained by using the partial drying method according to
the procedure specified in this annex. In handling the test sample and weighing the initial mass and partially
dried mass of the test sample, attention shall be paid to ensuring the measurement precision of the partially
dried moisture content.
A.1 Determine the initial mass of the test sample.
A.2 Spread the test sample in a uniform thickness and dry it in air or in a drying apparatus at a temperature
no higher than 105 °C. The choice of temperature and time for this partial drying stage shall not exceed a
point where an ore is likely to reabsorb moisture during subsequent processing.
A.3 After partial drying, again determine the mass of the test sample.
A.4 Calculate the partially dried moisture content, wp, expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the test sample
using Formula (A.1).
mm−
12
(A.1)
w=100
p
m
1
where
m is the initial mass, in grams, of the test sample;
1
m is the mass, in grams, of the test sample after partial drying.
2
A.5 Prepare the test portions for moisture measurement from the partially dried sample according to the
procedure in ISO 3082.
A.6 Determine the drying loss of the test portion in accordance with 7.2 and calculate the additional
moisture content, expressed as a mass fraction (%), in accordance with 9.1.
A.7 Calculate the total (as received) moisture content, w , expressed as a mass fraction (%), of the test
pd
sample using Formula (A.2).
100 −w
p
w = w + w (A.2)
pd p d
100
where w is the additional moisture content obtained in accordance with 9.1 after partial drying, expressed as
d
a mass fraction (%).
A.8 Determine the moisture content, as a mass fraction (%), of the lot in accordance with 9.2.
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A.9 If the mass of the moisture sample is not large, the entire quantity of the sample may be dried in order
to conduct the moisture determination according to the method specified in the body of this International
Standard.
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Annex B
(normative)
Corrections for sprinkled water and/or rainwater
Introduction
Nowadays, in many countries, strict environmental regulations must be observed in the iron ore and steel
industry. When water is sprinkled over iron ore during loading and/or unloading operations to prevent dust
evolution, the moisture content of a lot shall be corrected, according to the procedure specified in this annex,
for the mass of water sprinkled.
This annex also describes a method for correcting the moisture content of a lot containing rainwater.
B.1 General
B.1.1 Water is sprinkled for the following reasons:
a) environmental regulations at loading and/or unloading ports;
b) difficulty of handling iron ores due to ore characteristics, weather conditions, handling equipment, etc.
B.1.2 Correction for rainwater shall be made whenever rainfall occurs during the loading or unloading
operations, and the moisture content of the lot is known to have been affected.
B.2 Corrections for sprinkled water
General
In the case of unloading a lot, sprinkled water refers to water sprinkled (or sprayed) in the vessel holds and/or
on any sections extending to a point where samples are taken. In the case of loading of a lot, sprinkled water
refers to water sprinkled in the holds and/or on the loading conveyors located after the point where moisture
samples are taken.
Two methods of correction for sprinkled water are mentioned in this clause. One refers to water added before
the sampling point during unloading operations, the other to water added after the sampling point during
loading operations.
Measurement of sprinkled water
The measurement of sprinkled water shall be made with a volumenometer having an accuracy of 5 %. The
volume obtained shall be converted to a mass, m , in tonnes, by multiplying it by the density of the sprinkled
3
water.
3
NOTE Fresh water is assumed to have a density of 1 t/m .
Mass of lot
The mass of the lot, m4, in tonnes, as received or as despatched without sprinkled water or rainwater, or the
mass of the lot, m5, in tonnes as received or as despatched containing sprinkled water or rainwater, should be
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determined by draught survey or by other internationally recognized means, such as weightometer or weigh
hopper.
NOTE In the examples given in B.2.4, B.2.5, B.3.6, B.3.7, B.4 and B.5 below, it is assumed that the mass of the lot
has been determined by draught survey. In these instances, the determination of mass is conducted either before any
sprinkled water or rainwater is added (unloading operations) or after all sprinkled water or rainwater has been added
(loading operations).
If a weightometer or weigh hopper is us
...
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