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What is a Moisture Analyzer?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

A moisture analyzer is a device used in the measurement of moisture content. Employed in a variety of applications, a moisture analyzer can be used to measure samples of many different substances. In fact, these devices are used in many different industries, ranging from food processing and pharmaceuticals to construction and chemical preparation.

For most people, dealing with a little moisture is no big deal. In fact, it is welcomed in the form of cooling showers, ocean mist, and light spring rain. Moisture in a lab or other controlled environment, however, is often not welcomed at all. In some cases, too much moisture can wreak true havoc in scientific experiments and processes.

Scientist with beakers
Scientist with beakers

Many chemicals and mixtures can be compromised by exposure to too much moisture. Likewise, many products, both organic and synthetic in nature, can experience strength and integrity degradation when too much moisture is present. A moisture analyzer can be used to measure and monitor moisture content, not only in science labs, but also in a range of other applications. Applications that may call for the use of a moisture analyzer range from measuring coffee’s freshness to determining the composition of paint.

Often, the analyzers are small instruments that are designed to be easy to use. They are manufactured by many different companies, including AdamLab, Ohaus, Denver Instrument, CSC Scientific, and quite a few others. Though so many different companies manufacture the instruments, their design tends to be very similar. Furthermore, the way in which the moisturizer analyzers operate is typically similar as well.

To use a moisture analyzer, a sample is usually placed into a small chamber. Inside this chamber, a computer is used to record the weight of the sample. The sample is then heated with a device inside the analyzer that is designed for this purpose.

During the heating process, the analyzer continues to weigh the sample periodically. Once the measurement of the sample is constant, the user is alerted and evaporation is completed. Once this process is finished, the analyzer computes the moisture content of the sample.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a AllTheScience writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

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Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a AllTheScience writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

julies

I don't think the companies that manufacture paint use the same numbers when it comes to analyzing the moisture in paint.

I have noticed a noticeable difference in different brands of paint I have used. Some of them are too thin and runny, and others are too thick.

Once I find a brand that has a good balance I will usually stick with that brand. I know there is probably more that goes into that process than using a moisture analyzer, but it probably plays a part in it.

I have also found that the more expensive brands of paint are usually the ones that have the best overall consistency. It is easy to see how something like a moisture analyzer would come in handy both for large companies and anyone who needs to measure the moisture content of something.

golf07

We have honeybees and use a moisture analyzer when we are testing our honey. Honey needs to have a certain amount of moisture for the best results.

If there is too much moisture the honey will be runny and not have the thick texture that it should. The honey won't hurt you if there is too much moisture, but it just won't have the best taste or consistency.

Sometimes if we try to extract the honey too early in the season, the moisture analyzer will tell us we need to wait for awhile.

anon176676

Would there be a difference in the test settings of the machine from one product to another? f I test scallops there is one group of setting (time/temperature). would the settings be the same for cod fillets?

anon42600

how can a furnace oil be measured for its moisture content?

royal

What are the metals used in the tips of the little inexpensive garden and lawn moisture meters? If left in the ground the metal at the tip does seem to corrode or dissolve quickly.

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      Scientist with beakers