Techcomp MaxTira20Q Coulometric Karl Fischer Moisture Titrator
| Brand | Techcomp |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer | Yes |
| Type | Domestic |
| Model | MaxTira20Q |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Techcomp MaxTira20Q is a precision coulometric Karl Fischer (KF) moisture titrator engineered for trace-level water quantification in diverse sample matrices—including liquids, solids, gases, and liquefied gases. Unlike volumetric KF systems, the MaxTira20Q employs coulometric generation of iodine via constant-current electrolysis, enabling high sensitivity and reproducibility for samples containing 10 µg to 99 mg of water (equivalent to 1 ppm to 100% w/w, depending on sample mass). Its measurement principle conforms to ASTM E203 and ISO 760 standards for coulometric KF titration, ensuring regulatory alignment in quality control laboratories operating under GLP or GMP frameworks. The instrument integrates real-time electrochemical endpoint detection using alternating-current polarization potential difference, minimizing drift and false endpoints caused by electrode passivation or side reactions.
Key Features
- Coulometric iodine generation with constant-current electrolysis and adaptive intermittent electrolysis near endpoint—optimized for accuracy and reagent longevity.
- Patented ion-exchange membrane cell design: modular, tool-free disassembly enables rapid maintenance and consistent anolyte/catholyte separation without calibration recalibration.
- Four user-configurable method files stored internally; parameters—including titration current, endpoint threshold, drift compensation range (0–50 µg H₂O/min), and sample weight input mode—are fully editable via intuitive touch-key interface.
- Compact footprint (310 × 270 × 310 mm) and lightweight construction (~5 kg) support benchtop deployment in space-constrained QC labs or mobile analytical units.
- PBT resin housing: chemically resistant to common KF reagents (e.g., imidazole-based solvents, SO₂, methanol), compliant with RoHS directives and suitable for routine use in corrosive laboratory environments.
- Backlit 16-character × 2-line LCD display with real-time current, water content (µg or %), drift value (µg/min), and titration status indicators.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MaxTira20Q accommodates heterogeneous sample types without modification: low-viscosity solvents (e.g., acetone, chloroform), viscous oils (transformer oil, silicone fluids), hygroscopic powders (pharmaceutical APIs, polymer pellets), and gaseous streams (via gas-tight sampling valve or carrier-gas sparging module). All measurements adhere to ICH Q5C (water content in biologics), USP , and EP 2.5.12 guidelines. Data integrity is supported through audit-trail-capable external PC connectivity (RS-232/USB), enabling compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated LIMS or ELN software.
Software & Data Management
Internal memory retains up to 20 complete titration records (including date/time stamp, sample ID, weight, water mass, % moisture, and drift history). Full dataset export is enabled via serial or USB interface to Windows-based analysis platforms. Instrument firmware supports direct integration with analytical balances (Sartorius, Mettler Toledo) via RS-232 auto-weight input and thermal printers for GLP-compliant hardcopy reporting. No proprietary software license required—raw data exports as CSV for traceability and statistical process control (SPC) analysis.
Applications
- Pharmaceuticals: Quantification of residual moisture in lyophilized products, excipients, and active ingredients per USP ; validation of drying processes in API manufacturing.
- Food & Beverage: Water activity assessment in edible oils (AOAC 984.27), dairy powders, confectionery syrups, and tobacco—critical for shelf-life prediction and microbial stability.
- Polymers & Plastics: Monitoring moisture in PET, PA6, and PEEK granules prior to extrusion or injection molding to prevent hydrolytic degradation.
- Petrochemicals: Trace water analysis in hydrocarbon streams (LPG, naphtha), transformer oils (IEC 60814), and catalyst slurries where ppm-level water induces deactivation.
- Personal Care: Stability testing of emulsions (creams, lotions) and anhydrous formulations (lipsticks, deodorant sticks) to ensure preservative efficacy and texture consistency.
FAQ
What is the minimum detectable water mass using the MaxTira20Q?
The instrument achieves a lower detection limit of 10 µg water per titration, corresponding to ~1 ppm in a 1 g solid sample.
Can the MaxTira20Q analyze samples with high salt content or strong oxidizers?
Yes—its dual-compartment cell with ion-exchange membrane prevents interference from redox-active species; however, samples containing >10% chloride require pre-dilution or solvent exchange to avoid cathode corrosion.
Is method validation support available for pharmaceutical use?
Techcomp provides IQ/OQ documentation templates aligned with ASTM E203 and USP ; full PQ support requires lab-specific protocol development per ICH Q2(R2).
How often must the ion-exchange membrane be replaced?
Under standard usage (≤50 titrations/week), membrane replacement is recommended every 6–12 months; performance monitoring via baseline drift and endpoint sharpness is advised.
Does the instrument comply with electronic record requirements under 21 CFR Part 11?
The hardware meets technical prerequisites (user authentication, audit trail logging, electronic signature capability); full Part 11 compliance depends on configured external software and procedural controls implemented by the end user.
