Moisture Analysers vs. Traditional Drying Methods: A Comparative Study

Introduction

Choosing the right method for moisture analysis is crucial across industries such as food production, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental science. Two prominent options dominate the landscape: traditional oven drying and modern moisture analysers. Each method has its advantages and limitations, but the industry is clearly shifting towards faster, more efficient technologies.

At scalesandbalances.co.uk we have been selling and maintaining moisture analysers via Blake and Boughton Ltd. for many years. They are a vital tool in food processing, laboratories, plastics manufacturing, water treatment and more.

Discover the complete guide: Moisture Analysers – Everything You Need to Know

1. What Is a Moisture Analyser?

A moisture analyser is a lab instrument that rapidly measures the moisture content of a sample by weighing it before and after heating. The difference in mass reveals the moisture percentage. These devices use various heating technologies:

• Halogen: Fast and efficient, ideal for most applications.
• Infrared: Gentle heating for sensitive materials.
• Carbon heating: Provides uniform and rapid heat distribution.
• Metal heating elements: Durable, used in older models or specific industrial needs.

These technologies cater to different material types, from granular agricultural goods to plastic resins.

Explore moisture analysers we offer.

2. What Is Traditional Oven Drying?

This is a time-tested method involving drying samples in a convection oven at a controlled temperature for several hours. The sample is weighed before and after drying. While considered a gold standard in some labs, it is:

• • Time-consuming (can take several hours)
  • Labour intensive
  • Space consuming
  • High in energy consumption

Real-world insight: One of our customers, a grain farmer, used to send grain to a depot for testing. The load would sit overnight while oven-based moisture content tests were performed. If the moisture was too high (target range is typically 12–13%), the batch would be rejected, wasting transport time and incurring additional costs. With a moisture analyser at the farm and depot, both parties could test in under 10 minutes and act immediately.

3. Speed and Efficiency

Moisture analysers generally complete tests in under 10 minutes. Oven drying can take anywhere from 2 to 24 hours depending on the material. Moisture analysers allow for more samples to be processed in less time with greater repeatability.

4. Accuracy and Repeatability

Moisture analysers offer excellent repeatability thanks to their controlled environment. Using a consistent sample size and internal calibration, they often outperform oven methods, especially in rapid, repeat testing environments.

Note: The more sample you use, the more consistent your results will be.

5. Energy Usage and Environmental Impact

Moisture analysers consume significantly less energy than ovens. This helps businesses:

• • • Reduce utility costs
    • Save physical lab space
    • Contribute to sustainability goals like BSI Net Zero Pathway

6. The Verdict

In many laboratories, both methods coexist. For example, a farmer might use a handheld tester in the field, then take a detailed reading back at the lab using a benchtop moisture analyser.

In food manufacturing, some companies continue to validate fast moisture readings with periodic oven tests. This approach is especially common in compliance-heavy sectors.

Real-World Equipment Upgrade One major snack brand, Kettle Chips, upgraded from the Ohaus MB23 to the MB25 featuring an halogen heating element. A small 20% change that makes a big difference, providing faster results and improved consistency in testing. The shift increased quality control speed and ensured compliance with internal moisture thresholds.

Summary Table: Moisture Analyser vs Oven Drying

Conclusion

Moisture analysers provide a faster, more energy-efficient, and repeatable solution to determining moisture content. While oven drying still has its place, particularly for validation or regulatory standards, the move towards digital, rapid testing is accelerating.

Companies across food, agriculture, plastics, and laboratory sciences are making the switch, not just for speed, but to meet environmental targets and reduce operating costs.

Browse our full range of moisture analysers or contact us to discuss your application.