Understanding Moisture Balances: Applications and Benefits

A moisture balance, also known as a moisture analyser, is a tool used in industries to assess the moisture percentage of a particular product or sample. Used in industries like food processing and manufacturing, moisture analysers are suitable for determining moisture content in a range of products, including food, straw, and grain. Some of the highest-quality moisture balances are suitable for detecting even the smallest percentage of moisture in an object. 

Wondering whether your business would benefit from the purchase of a moisture balance? These handy gadgets measure the amount of moisture in a particular substance or product, and they’re invaluable in many sectors. 

What Is a Moisture Balance?

A moisture balance, often called a moisture analyser, measures the moisture content of a sample. These tools are used in a wide range of industries, such as laboratories and the food and beverage sectors. By recording weight loss as a sample is dried, the device calculates the exact moisture percentage accurately and precisely, with some moisture balances boasting extremely fine-tuned readability. 

Applications of Moisture Balances

So, when and where exactly are moisture analysers used? And how do you know if your business would benefit from purchasing one? Let’s get into it. 

Food Industry

Moisture content in food affects everything including taste, texture, and how quickly a product will expire. Being able to accurately read the moisture content of a food item makes it easier to control, which is a must in food production. 

Moisture balances are widely used to ensure that flour, dairy, cereals, and packaged foods meet the required moisture levels, which prevents spoilage and improves overall quality.

Pharmaceuticals

Moisture balances are widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for determining the moisture content of powders, tablets, and other formulations. By maintaining the right moisture level, pharma producers can ensure quality control and consistency in products. 

After all, in an industry that creates medicine, even the slightest difference is moisture control can throw off a formulation. 

Agriculture and Animal Feed

Believe it or not, moisture balances are actually invaluable in farming and agriculture, especially when it comes to storing animal feed. Increased moisture levels can affect the expiration of animal feed, and even result in mould, so keeping on top of the moisture percentage is a must. Moisture analysers offer a simple solution. 

Environmental Research

Understanding the moisture content of various samples is hugely important in environmental research. Soil samples, wastewater, and industrial materials are regularly tested to assess contamination, and part of this assessment requires understanding moisture levels. 

Laboratories

In laboratories, even a slight change to the makeup of a substance can lead to a completely different result. Moisture analysers provide a simple and affordable way to ensure that lab samples aren’t contaminated. 

Chemical and Plastics Industry

Precise moisture control is a must in this industry for manufacturing and processing raw materials. Excess moisture can cause production issues, which is why keeping on top of percentages is so crucial. Moisture balances help manufacturers achieve the right moisture levels for efficient processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a moisture balance?

A moisture balance, also known as a moisture analyser, is an electronic balance with a built-in heating chamber that allows you to measure the moisture percentage of a given product. The before (wet) and after (dry) weights are then used to provide an accurate moisture percentage reading based on the difference between the two. 

What is the maximum capacity of a moisture analyser?

Capacities range across different types and models of moisture balance. At Scales and Balances, we have moisture analysers with a capacity of 30g to 90g. On average, most hover around the 50g mark. 

How to calibrate a moisture balance?

Calibrating a moisture balance should be done whenever you suspect accuracy issues, or simply to keep your moisture analyser working as it should be. 

1. Turn on the moisture balance and allow it to reach its optimal operating temperature.
2. Ensure you use appropriate certified weight for balance calibration.
3. Navigate to the calibration function in the balance’s menu to access calibration mode.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions. The balance will prompt you to place specific calibration weights on the pan.
5. If deviations are found, adjust the balance settings as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
6. Use a sample of known moisture content to verify the balance’s accuracy.
7. Keep a log of calibration activities for compliance and quality control purposes.

We recommend calibrating your moisture analyser at least once annually, but if you use it daily, consider a calibration at least every few months. 

Where to buy moisture analysers?

Here at Scales and Balances, we’re known for our huge range of scales and balances, which includes moisture analysers. Boasting models from some of the UK’s biggest brands, we balance quality with affordability, promising excellent value for money.