A test method to investigate the effect of compaction on the penetration resistance of iron ore fine. Grabs are often used in dry bulk terminals for unloading bulk carriers loaded with iron ore. The grabbing process starts with cutting the free surface of the bulk iron ore. The penetration depth of the grab knives into bulk material is an important success factor in the filling ratio of the grab. The resistance to penetration is influenced by the densification process of cargo which occurs during ship loading and during sailing. In this study a test method is developed to determine the relationship between the level of compaction stress and the measured penetration resistance on the penetration tool. The test results show that when the compaction stress increases, the penetration resistance, as well as the bulk density also increases. The results obtained from these measurements will be used in further research for improving the design of iron ore grabs. @en