moisture analyzer
Moisture analyzer also called moisture meter or moisture balance. They can measure the moisture content in a sample. They can also analyze gases, liquids, and solids. Specially used to test certain types of products (such as medicines, food, plastics, fuels, and hydrocarbons).
In this article, we reveal how moisture analyzers work and precautions for using them.
The premise behind moisture analyzers is quite simple. They work using a Loss On Drying (LOD) or thermogravimetric method to determine how much moisture is in the sample. Here are the basic steps:
1.The moisture analyzer weighs the sample and records the initial weight.
2.A heating element radiates infrared heat to dry the sample. (A few different types of heating elements may be used in moisture analyzers, including halogen lamps, quartz lamps, metal, or ceramic.)
3.The sample is weighed periodically until the weight no longer changes (this means the sample is fully dried).
4.The final weight is subtracted from the initial weight to determine the moisture content.
If you need to find out the solid content of a sample, you simply subtract the moisture content from the initial weight.
Note that moisture doesn’t only refer to water. It includes any substance that will evaporate as a result of infrared heating, for example, alcohols and organic solvents.
Here are some tips to help ensure you get accurate results when using a moisture analyzer:
·Use clean sample pans. Used pans should be disposed of and you should only use clean, intact pans.
·Calibrate the unit regularly. The heating module and weighing unit should both be calibrated at regular intervals.
·Ensure an even sample spread. You should cover the entire surface area of the pan with a thin, even coating of the sample.
·Position the analyzer correctly. Make sure the unit is placed away from any sources of draft or vibration such as air vents or refrigerators. It should also be in a non-harsh, clean environment. High humidity, extreme temperatures, or excess dust could affect the accuracy of results.
·Maintain the unit properly. This includes cleaning the sample pan area, heating module, and temperature sensor.
·Don’t overload the unit. Be sure to note the maximum capacity of the analyzer as overloading it could damage the internal weighing mechanisms.
·Take safety precautions. Assess the risk involved in heating your particular sample. Work in a fume hood where necessary and never try to dry explosive or combustible substances.
What needs to be kept in mind is that in terms of installation, location, and calibration, we should treat the moisture analyzer like an analytical balance. Because the accuracy of the moisture analyzer depends to a large extent on the weighing components of the equipment. In addition, we provide the moisture analyzer, please feel free to contact us if you are interested in them.