OHAUS MB27 Advanced Halogen Moisture Analyzer

Overview

The OHAUS MB27 Advanced Halogen Moisture Analyzer is a precision laboratory instrument engineered for rapid, reliable, and repeatable determination of moisture content in solid and semi-solid samples using the loss-on-drying (LOD) principle. Unlike traditional oven-drying methods requiring hours, the MB27 employs a high-intensity halogen lamp as its heating source—delivering uniform thermal energy across the sample surface with fast ramp-up response and precise temperature control (50–160 °C in 1 °C increments). This enables consistent evaporation kinetics while minimizing thermal degradation of heat-sensitive materials such as pharmaceutical actives, herbal extracts, or dairy powders. The analyzer integrates a high-resolution analytical balance (1 mg readability) co-located with the heating chamber, ensuring real-time mass monitoring during drying. Its compact, robust architecture conforms to ISO 8573-1 and ASTM D4457 standards for gravimetric moisture analysis and supports method development aligned with USP , EP 2.2.32, and AOAC Official Methods.

Key Features

• Halogen heating system optimized for rapid thermal response and spatial uniformity—reducing typical drying cycles by up to 70% versus conventional infrared or convection ovens.
• High-precision dual-sensor weighing mechanism with 1 mg resolution and internal calibration verification, ensuring traceable mass stability under dynamic thermal load.
• GLP-compliant built-in thermal printer with timestamped, audit-ready reports—including sample ID, method name, start/end time, final moisture %, residual mass, and operator code.
• RS232 serial interface supporting bidirectional communication with external PCs, LIMS systems, or label printers; compatible with OHAUS Logger Pro software for automated data export and trend analysis.
• Intuitive dual-line backlit LCD display with context-sensitive prompts and ergonomic keypad layout—designed for glove-compatible operation in QC laboratories adhering to ISO/IEC 17025 workflows.
• Programmable termination logic: automatic endpoint detection via fixed weight-loss threshold (e.g., 0.1 mg over 60 s), preset time duration, or manual override—enabling method flexibility across diverse matrices.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MB27 accommodates a broad range of industrial and regulatory sample types, including granular APIs, excipients, foodstuffs (e.g., flour, coffee beans, pet food), polymers, catalysts, and soil aggregates. Its 90 mm stainless-steel weighing pan ensures mechanical stability during thermal expansion and facilitates easy cleaning between runs. All firmware and hardware design elements comply with IEC 61000-4 electromagnetic compatibility requirements and meet UL/CSA safety certification for Class I, Division 2 environments. Data integrity safeguards include password-protected method editing, electronic signature support (via optional software integration), and full audit trail capability compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when used with validated OHAUS data management protocols.

Software & Data Management

OHAUS Logger Pro v3.2 (Windows-compatible) provides comprehensive method creation, execution logging, and statistical reporting functions—including repeatability assessment (RSD%), outlier detection, and batch-level summary dashboards. Raw measurement logs are stored in CSV and XML formats with embedded metadata (instrument ID, firmware version, environmental sensor readings). For GMP-regulated facilities, optional validation packages include IQ/OQ documentation templates, performance qualification test scripts, and electronic record retention guidance aligned with Annex 11 and ALCOA+ principles.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC: Moisture verification of lyophilized products, tablet blends, and raw material release per USP .
• Food Safety Labs: Rapid compliance testing for moisture limits in snacks, cereals, and dehydrated vegetables per Codex Alimentarius standards.
• Chemical Manufacturing: In-process control of hygroscopic solvents, silica gels, and polymer resins where residual water affects catalytic activity or shelf life.
• Agricultural Research: Field sample screening for grain moisture prior to storage—supporting FAO-recommended safe storage thresholds.
• Academic Teaching Labs: Hands-on instruction in thermogravimetric principles, method validation, and uncertainty budgeting per EURACHEM/CITAC guidelines.

FAQ

What standards does the MB27 comply with for regulated industries?

The MB27 supports compliance with USP , EP 2.2.32, ASTM D4457, and ISO 712 for moisture analysis. When paired with validated software and procedural controls, it meets data integrity requirements of FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11.
Can the MB27 be integrated into an existing LIMS environment?

Yes—via RS232 serial output, the analyzer exports ASCII-formatted results directly to LIMS platforms supporting standard serial protocols. OHAUS provides technical specifications and handshake configuration guides for common LIMS vendors.
Is calibration traceable to NIST or other national metrology institutes?

Internal calibration uses certified OHAUS weights traceable to NIST standards. External verification may be performed using Class M2 or better reference masses accredited under ISO/IEC 17025.
How does halogen heating differ from traditional infrared in moisture analyzers?

Halogen lamps emit broadband near-infrared radiation with superior spectral overlap to water’s absorption bands (1.4 µm and 1.9 µm), resulting in more efficient energy coupling and reduced surface charring compared to narrow-band IR emitters.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term accuracy?

Routine cleaning of the heating chamber and pan with lint-free isopropyl alcohol wipes; annual verification of temperature uniformity and balance linearity using OHAUS-certified service kits or authorized service centers.