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Optical in-process measurement of moisture and other parameters

Tuesday, August 11, 2009: Sartorius Mechatronics

Online analyzers of the PMD500 series feature a flexible array of detectors for the UV|VIS and NIR spectra in compelling combination with a high-resolution digital camera and a comprehensive software package. Concentrations of various ingredients, such as water, moisture, fat, protein, solvent, etc., in solid ? i.e., free-flowing or pourable ? liquid, and pasty media can be exactly analyzed online in milliseconds. In this way, the PMD500 analyzers enable manufacturers to accurately comply with legally prescribed maximum limits and product-dependent specifications, such as for the water content of their products. This guarantees optimal use of raw materials and energy as well as fully automatic process control in real time.

The PMD500 system works with a redundant light source and, thanks to the use of a diode array spectrometer, is capable of analyzing even fast-moving samples, such as those on a conveyor belt, and delivering accurate and reproducible values. The modular-design, low-maintenance system offers optimal solutions for customer-specific processes, features a patented automatic calibration function and is also suitable for use in hazardous areas. All PMD500 analyzers meet the ATEX standard.

To supplement quantitative analysis, or determination of constituents, every PMD500 can perform qualitative analysis of such properties as the color of rice, the degree of browning of baked goods and other visual characteristics, such as “bad spots” or black specks in flour. In addition to laboratory analysis, the PMD500 analyzers are capable of continuously monitoring every step of an entire production process.

The online PMD500 analyzers will pay for themselves within a short time ? well below six months, depending on the product.

More process analyzers and moisture meters from Sartorius.