OHAUS MB120 Infrared Moisture Analyzer

Overview

The OHAUS MB120 Infrared Moisture Analyzer is a precision halogen-heated thermogravimetric instrument engineered for rapid, reliable moisture content determination across diverse solid and semi-solid samples. Based on the ASTM D4442 and ISO 712 standards for moisture analysis by loss-on-drying (LOD), the MB120 employs a high-intensity halogen lamp to deliver uniform, controllable thermal energy—enabling fast, reproducible drying kinetics without thermal overshoot or sample charring. Its integrated analytical balance (120 g capacity, 1 mg readability) continuously monitors mass loss in real time, while the microprocessor-controlled heating system dynamically adjusts power output to maintain setpoint temperature stability within ±1 °C. Designed for routine QC laboratories, raw material inspection labs, and R&D environments, the MB120 delivers traceable, auditable results aligned with GLP and GMP documentation requirements.

Key Features

• Halogen heating system with programmable temperature ramping (40–230 °C in 1 °C increments) and automatic end-point detection based on mass change rate (dM/dt)
• 4.3-inch QVGA color touchscreen interface with intuitive method wizard, multi-language support (English, Spanish, French, German, Chinese), and customizable home screen layout
• Dual RS232 and dual USB host ports for seamless integration with printers, barcode scanners, and external data storage devices; USB device port for firmware updates and method transfer
• Preloaded method library with >20 validated protocols for common matrices—including pharmaceutical excipients, food powders, polymers, and agricultural grains—with user-editable parameters (drying profile, endpoint criteria, auto-shutdown logic)
• Robust mechanical architecture featuring anti-static weighing chamber, draft shield with quick-release mechanism, and corrosion-resistant stainless-steel sample pan (90 mm diameter)
• Real-time graphical display of drying curve (mass vs. time), temperature profile, and statistical summary (mean, SD, RSD) for up to 99 test records per method

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MB120 accommodates a broad range of sample types—including hygroscopic powders, granules, pastes, films, and fibrous materials—without requiring solvent extraction or chemical reagents. Its open-chamber design facilitates easy loading and visual monitoring during analysis. All measurement protocols comply with internationally recognized standards for thermogravimetric moisture analysis, including ASTM D4442 (wood), ASTM D6304 (petroleum products), ISO 712 (cereals and pulses), and AOAC 952.06 (food). Data integrity is ensured through built-in audit trail functionality (user login, method modification log, result export timestamp), supporting compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated networked software (e.g., OHAUS Connect™).

Software & Data Management

OHAUS Connect™ software (Windows-compatible, optional) enables centralized method deployment, remote instrument monitoring, and automated report generation in PDF or CSV format. Each measurement record includes metadata such as operator ID, method name, calibration status, ambient conditions, and full drying curve data. Exported files retain digital signatures and are structured to meet LIMS ingestion requirements. The analyzer’s internal memory stores up to 1,000 complete test results with timestamps, and all USB exports include embedded checksums for data authenticity verification. For regulated environments, optional 21 CFR Part 11 configuration packages provide electronic signature enforcement, role-based access control, and immutable audit logs.

Applications

• Quality control of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients per USP & Ph. Eur. general chapter <921>
• Moisture specification testing in food manufacturing (e.g., flour, sugar, dairy powders, pet food) to ensure shelf-life stability and microbial safety
• Process validation and incoming raw material inspection in polymer production (e.g., nylon, PET, ABS) where residual moisture affects extrusion consistency
• Research-grade moisture mapping in agricultural commodities (soybeans, corn, coffee beans) for post-harvest drying optimization
• Regain calculation for textile fibers (cotton, wool, viscose) per ASTM D2495 and ISO 6741
• Environmental monitoring of desiccant performance and humidity-sensitive packaging materials

FAQ

What calibration standards are recommended for routine verification of the MB120?
OHAUS recommends using certified reference materials (CRMs) with known moisture content—such as sodium tartrate dihydrate (15.66% H₂O) or calcium chloride hexahydrate (49.47% H₂O)—for periodic performance verification. Internal balance calibration should be performed daily using Class M2 weights (10 g and 100 g).

Can the MB120 be used for volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis?
No—the MB120 quantifies total volatile loss under defined thermal conditions and cannot distinguish between water and other volatiles. For selective water determination in VOC-rich matrices, Karl Fischer titration remains the preferred method per ASTM D6304.

Is the halogen heating element replaceable by the user?
Yes—the halogen lamp module is a field-replaceable unit with tool-free access. Replacement requires only basic mechanical alignment and does not necessitate recalibration of the thermal sensor or balance subsystem.

Does the MB120 support automated sample changers?
No—the MB120 is a single-sample benchtop analyzer. For high-throughput applications, OHAUS offers the MB35 model with optional autosampler integration.

How is temperature accuracy verified and maintained?
Temperature calibration is performed at the factory using NIST-traceable thermocouple probes. Users may verify thermal uniformity across the sample pan surface using a calibrated infrared thermometer or contact probe; deviations exceeding ±2 °C at setpoint warrant service technician intervention.