Moisture Analysers – Fast, Accurate Moisture Content Testing for QC & Production
Our moisture analysers combine precision weighing with halogen or infrared heating technology to determine the moisture content of samples quickly and accurately. Delivering results in minutes rather than the hours required by traditional oven-drying methods, they are essential instruments for quality control, process monitoring, incoming goods testing, and compliance across food production, pharmaceuticals, plastics, chemicals, and agriculture.
The operating principle is straightforward: the sample is placed on the integrated weighing pan, the heating element dries it at a programmed temperature, and the instrument continuously calculates and displays the moisture percentage as weight is lost. Programmable drying programmes allow users to set temperature, drying time, and automatic shut-off criteria — either time-based or when the rate of weight loss falls below a defined threshold — making the instrument adaptable to a wide range of materials and testing protocols. Results are displayed in real time as moisture %, dry weight, wet weight, and drying curve, giving operators immediate insight into sample behaviour during the drying process.
Key Features
- Halogen or infrared heating for rapid, uniform sample drying with minimal thermal lag
- High-resolution weighing system for precise moisture percentage calculation throughout the drying cycle
- Programmable drying programmes — temperature, time, and automatic shut-off criteria
- Large, clear display showing moisture %, dry weight, wet weight, and real-time drying curve
- RS-232 and USB connectivity for data transfer to printers, PCs, and LIMS
- GLP/GMP-compliant output with date, time, instrument ID, and method details on printed records
- Compact benchtop design for easy integration into laboratory or production line workflows
- Method storage for multiple saved drying programmes to speed up routine testing
Common Applications
- Food and beverage production — moisture content testing of raw materials, in-process samples, and finished goods
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing — raw material QC, granule moisture testing, and finished product release
- Plastics and polymers — moisture analysis of granules and pellets before processing to prevent defects
- Chemical and agricultural testing — moisture determination in powders, soils, fertilisers, and grains
- Paper, textiles, and building materials — moisture measurement for quality and process control
- Cannabis and botanical products — moisture content compliance testing for regulatory requirements
All moisture analysers in our range are available with UKAS-traceable calibration certificates on request. Browse below to find the right heating technology, capacity, and readability for your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between halogen and infrared moisture analysers?
Halogen moisture analysers use a halogen lamp as the heat source, which heats up and cools down very quickly, allowing faster drying cycles and more precise temperature control. Infrared moisture analysers use an infrared heating element, which is well suited to heat-sensitive samples that require gentler, more gradual drying. Halogen models are the most common choice for general laboratory and QC use due to their speed and temperature accuracy.
How does a moisture analyser compare to a drying oven method?
Traditional oven drying (loss on drying, or LOD) can take 1‒4 hours per sample. A moisture analyser typically delivers results in 5–15 minutes, making it far more practical for routine QC and production environments. Results are generally comparable to oven methods, though correlation testing between the two methods is recommended when validating a moisture analyser against an established oven-drying procedure.
What sample size is recommended for moisture analysis?
Most moisture analysers work best with sample sizes of 2– 10 g, though this varies by material. Larger samples improve statistical representativeness but take longer to dry. Smaller samples dry faster but may introduce greater variability. Refer to the instrument’s application guide or contact our team for guidance on optimal sample size for your specific material.
Are moisture analysers GLP and GMP compliant?
Yes. Most models in our range produce GLP-compliant printed records including date, time, instrument ID, method parameters, and results. For GMP environments, models with user login, audit trail, and method lock features are available. IQ/OQ/PQ validation documentation can be provided on request for pharmaceutical and regulated laboratory applications.
Can I get a UKAS calibration certificate with my moisture analyser?
Yes. UKAS-traceable calibration certificates are available on request for all moisture analysers in our range. Routine verification using certified temperature standards and reference weights is also recommended — contact our team for calibration and service support.
