Aqua-TR Capacitance-Based Grain Moisture and Bulk Density Analyzer by KPM Chopin

Overview

The Aqua-TR is a certified, field-deployable capacitance-based analyzer engineered for simultaneous determination of moisture content and bulk density (test weight) in intact cereal grains—including wheat, corn (maize), sorghum, barley, oats, and rye. Developed by KPM Chopin in France, it implements radiofrequency (RF) capacitance measurement technology calibrated against reference gravimetric oven-drying methods per ISO 712 and ICC Standard Method No. 118. Unlike resistive or near-infrared systems, the Aqua-TR’s dual-frequency RF sensor minimizes dielectric interference from grain morphology, kernel size distribution, and surface moisture gradients—ensuring high reproducibility across heterogeneous lots. Its patented automatic gravitational leveling mechanism ensures consistent sample compaction and sensor alignment regardless of surface inclination—a critical feature for on-site use at elevators, silos, and procurement points. Integrated real-time temperature compensation corrects for ambient thermal drift, maintaining accuracy across operational environments from cold storage facilities (2 °C) to tropical field conditions (up to 45 °C).

Key Features

• Simultaneous Dual-Parameter Output: Delivers moisture (% w.b.) and bulk density (kg/hL or lb/bu) in under 60 seconds per test—enabling rapid lot classification per national grading standards (e.g., USDA FGIS, GOST, GB/T 5497).
• Patented Auto-Leveling System: Mechanical self-leveling via gravity-driven pendulum mechanism eliminates operator dependency on manual calibration or bubble-level verification—critical for mobile use in unlevelled truck beds or warehouse floors.
• Temperature-Compensated RF Sensing: Onboard thermistor network continuously adjusts dielectric response curves to ambient and grain temperature, reducing systematic bias in seasonal or climatic transitions.
• Ruggedized Industrial Design: IP54-rated enclosure, reinforced ABS housing, and shock-absorbing feet support continuous operation in dusty, high-vibration environments without recalibration.
• Regulatory-Ready Data Handling: RS-232 serial output enables direct integration with LIMS or ERP platforms; parallel port supports legacy printer connectivity for audit-trail hardcopy generation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Aqua-TR is validated for whole, unground kernels of major cereals—no milling or pre-conditioning required. Calibration models are traceable to NIST-traceable reference materials and verified annually per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited protocols. It complies with EU Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 for official controls, meets the performance criteria of EN ISO 712:2017 for moisture determination, and satisfies bulk density requirements outlined in EN ISO 7970:2017. The instrument carries full CE marking under the Electromagnetic Compatibility (2014/30/EU) and Low Voltage (2014/35/EU) Directives. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–certified out-of-the-box, its data export architecture supports integration into Part 11–compliant workflows when paired with validated software layers.

Software & Data Management

The Aqua-TR operates as a standalone instrument with embedded firmware (v3.2+). Raw measurement data—including timestamp, ambient temperature, sensor impedance values, and final calculated outputs—is logged internally and retrievable via RS-232 using standard ASCII protocol. Optional KPM Chopin PC software (AquaSoft v5.x) provides batch reporting, statistical process control (SPC) charts, calibration history tracking, and PDF certificate generation compliant with GLP documentation requirements. All data fields support user-defined metadata tagging (lot ID, operator code, location stamp), enabling traceability for internal audits or third-party inspections.

Applications

• Grain procurement quality gates at elevators and cooperatives
• Pre-storage moisture verification to prevent mycotoxin development
• In-warehouse condition monitoring during long-term storage
• Contractual compliance testing for export shipments (e.g., GAFTA, FOSFA)
• Research applications in cereal breeding programs requiring high-throughput phenotyping
• Calibration verification of inline NIR moisture sensors in processing lines

FAQ

Does the Aqua-TR require daily calibration with reference standards?
No. It features factory-installed, multi-point calibration curves for each supported grain type. Verification checks using certified reference samples are recommended weekly or after 50 measurements—per ISO 712 Annex B guidelines.

Can it measure broken kernels or mixed-species lots?
It is optimized for uniform, whole-kernel lots. Mixed species (e.g., wheat + barley) require separate calibration or blended reference validation. Broken kernels introduce packing density variance and are not covered under standard certification.

Is the device suitable for organic grain certification workflows?
Yes. Its non-destructive, solvent-free measurement method aligns with NOP and EU Organic Regulation (EC) No 834/2007 requirements for residue-free testing.

What maintenance is required beyond routine cleaning?
Annual verification by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited service lab is advised. Sensor surfaces should be wiped with lint-free cloth after each use; no lubrication or disassembly is permitted.