Moisture Analyzers: Definition, Working principle, Calibration and More

What is a moisture analyzer?

Moisture analyzers are instruments used to measure the moisture content in an object. Moisture analysis is important as it is one of the best ways to ensure that a product was made in good quality or how long its shelf life can be. Moisture analyzers are commonly used in various industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, environmental, and agriculture, where accurate moisture analysis is essential for quality control, process optimization, and compliance with industry standards.

How does a moisture analyzer work?

Moisture analyzers are similar to balances in a way, as they work by measuring an object's weight loss while it's drying. The heating unit brings the temperature high enough to make the liquid part (the moisture content) evaporate. Once the object is completely dry, the weight of before and after drying, are compared.

What are the main factors that can affect the inaccuracy of moisture analyzer measurements?

• The temperature used for vaporizing the liquid is too high. If there is too much heat, it could affect the rest of the material and change its mass of it, thus resulting in inaccurate weighing results.
• Incorrect operation of the device. For example, an overloaded moisture analyzer can affect the accuracy of the weighing mechanism. Another important thing is to properly clean the device so that it does not contain deposits from old measurements.
• The device is not calibrated. High-precision devices require regular calibration to ensure reliable results, therefore periodical calibration of moisture analyzers is mandatory.

How to calibrate a moisture analyzer?

Moisture analyzers are calibrated using a known value as a reference point. When talking about the moisture analyzer’s weighing calibration, an adjustment weight is the needed reference point. Place the weight onto the weighting plate to test if the balance is showing the correct data. If the results are not accurate, an adjustment has to be made (check your moisture analyzer manufacturer’s manual for precise instructions). The temperature calibration part is quite similar. Instead of weight, use a temperature probe to conduct a temperature accuracy test. If the readings come out different, an adjustment is necessary.