PRECISE AND ACCURATE MEASUREMENTS OF MOISTURE CONTENT

Laboratories are fast-paced environments with loads of continuous processes that all require accuracy and quality control. One of the features that affect quality control criteria is the moisture content of samples. If the moisture content of the sample is more than what is envisaged, this can affect the weight, quality and shelf life of the product or sample due to microbial activities.

According to the international standard for moisture analysis, the oven-drying method is used to perform moisture analysis by measuring the weight loss that occurs as the sample is heated. This method, however, is time-consuming and requires an analytical balance and desiccator. It is also prone to human error, due to the high levels of handling and calculations involved, which may compromise accuracy. This method can take 2-3 hours, sometimes even longer, as there are many manual steps in the process.

However, this method can be replaced with the use of a moisture analyser. Precisa offers the XM 60 moisture analyser, which is compliant with the international standard of moisture analysis. The XM 60 moisture analyser is robust, simple to operate and designed to analyse moisture content of very low sample volumes. It is a compact instrument that does not require accessory equipment.

The results produced are accurate and the process takes 5 to 15 minutes to complete. There is continuous determination of mass during the drying process, thus eliminating the need for complex calculations.

The added advantage of the XM 60 moisture analyser is that it is cost effective.

INSTRULAB A DIVISION OF AIR & VACUUM TECHNOLOGIES (PTY) LTD

Tel: (011) 318 3241 burnm@vactech.co.za www.vactech.co.za