This part of ISO 8656 specifies methods and conditions of sampling for raw materials and prepared unshaped refractory products, in order to indicate the mean values of a consignment and the interval of sampling. It does not apply to products in the form of large static quantities or cargoes from which reliable samples cannot be taken. The type of sampling equipment, and the preparation and reduction of the samples, which should not alter the properties to be tested, are to be agreed between the interested parties. NOTE — Difficulties may be encountered when sampling certain types of unshaped products, for example mouldables.