The accurate measurement of moisture content plays an essential role in quality control systems across food production, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and environmental research. Moisture levels impact product spoilage, shelf life, contamination and overall quality, while inadequate water contents create issues with material consistency and usability. Industries determine precise moisture content measurements through the use of moisture analyzers that operate as specialized testing instruments.

How Moisture Analyzers Work

The Loss-On-Drying (LOD) thermogravimetric approach, which determines moisture content through weight loss measurement by heating, operates as the core principle of moisture analyzers. The process follows these steps:

1. The sample is placed on the analyzer's weighing pan, then the instrument records its initial sample weight.

2. The heating element consisting of a halogen lamp, metal heater, infrared emitter or microwave radiation, heats the sample until the moisture evaporates.

3. Throughout the drying process, the instrument continuously measures the sample’s weight.

4. When the sample reaches its constant weight, indicating complete drying, the analyzer will record a final sample weight.

5. The difference between the initial and final sample weights measures moisture content, which is usually expressed as a percentage.

The total moisture content does not only refer to water; other volatile elements like alcohols and solvents are also included, which affect the overall moisture composition.

Key Factors Affecting Accuracy in Moisture Analysis

The following aspects help you obtain dependable test outcomes:

• Sample Size & Distribution – The sample should be evenly spread across the weighing pan. A larger sample size gives more consistent results but takes extended drying time, whereas a smaller sample size introduces variability in results.

• Temperature Control – The sample undergoes deterioration at excessive heat exposure which leads to inaccurate weight loss results during analysis. Users must select the proper temperature setting based on what material they need to analyze.

• Proper Calibration – Periodic calibration of moisture analyzers, both for weighing mechanics and heating components, is necessary to maintain precise readings.

• External Conditions – The accuracy of the measurement is affected by external environmental factors, including humidity, vibrations, and air currents.

Best Practices for Using a Moisture Analyzer

For optimal performance and accuracy, follow these best practices:

• Position the Analyzer Correctly – Place the unit in a stable, vibration-free environment away from air vents, fans, or direct sunlight.

• Use Clean Sample Pans – Avoid contamination by using clean, intact sample pans for each measurement.

• Ensure Even Sample Spreading – A thin, uniform sample layer ensures even heat distribution and accurate readings.

• Avoid Overloading – Exceeding the unit’s weight capacity can damage the internal weighing mechanism and lead to inaccurate results.

• Perform Regular Maintenance – Clean the sample pan, heating module, and temperature sensor to prevent residue buildup.

• Calibrate Regularly – Periodically calibrate the weighing and heating components to maintain accuracy.

A&D Weighing: A Trusted Brand Partner of MSE Supplies

A&D Weighing serves as a global technology leader that develops high-quality measurement tools that include moisture analyzers and precision balances, calibration weights and accessories. The instruments produced by this company operate to help laboratories and industrial sites achieve superior accuracy and efficiency when performing moisture content examinations and weighing tasks.

Achieving precise measurement of moisture is essential for both product quality maintenance and manufacturing process optimization. Different industries can achieve reliable product consistency through their use of best practices and A&D Weighing's high-quality moisture analyzers and balances. Experience higher laboratory and production efficiency with A&D Weighing instruments available at MSE Supplies.