C. Gerhardt FBS6 Crude Fiber Analyzer

Overview

The C. Gerhardt FBS6 Crude Fiber Analyzer is a compact, benchtop digestion system engineered for standardized determination of crude fiber content in animal feed, forage, and botanical matrices. It implements the classical gravimetric acid-base digestion method—specifically aligned with AOAC Official Method 962.09 and ISO 6865:2000—where samples are sequentially treated with boiling sulfuric acid (to hydrolyze starches and soluble carbohydrates), followed by boiling sodium hydroxide (to solubilize proteins and pectins), and finally ashed at 550 °C to quantify the residual lignin, cellulose, and insoluble hemicellulose fraction. Unlike continuous-flow or near-infrared alternatives, the FBS6 delivers traceable, reference-grade results rooted in internationally accepted wet chemistry protocols. Its single-heating-zone architecture supports reproducible thermal profiles across all six filter bags simultaneously, minimizing inter-sample variability while maintaining strict compliance with GLP documentation requirements.

Key Features

• Filter bag-based digestion platform enabling parallel processing of up to six samples without cross-contamination
• Programmable digital temperature controller with ±2 °C accuracy over 100–425 °C range, validated per DIN EN 61000-4-3 for electromagnetic compatibility
• Integrated reflux condenser design to minimize reagent loss and ensure consistent digestion kinetics
• Stainless steel heating block with corrosion-resistant ceramic insulation, rated for continuous operation at 425 °C
• Modular construction compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment
• No moving parts in the digestion chamber—enhancing long-term reliability and reducing maintenance intervals

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FBS6 accommodates standard AOAC-compliant fiber filter bags (e.g., Ankom F57 or Gerhardt FB-6) with nominal pore size ≤25 µm. It supports sample masses ranging from 0.5 g to 2.0 g (dry basis), suitable for pelleted feeds, hay, silage, grain by-products, and botanical extracts. Method validation data confirm repeatability (RSD < 3.2%) and intermediate precision (RSD < 4.1%) across multiple laboratories per ISO 5725-2. The instrument meets essential regulatory prerequisites for feed analysis under EU Regulation (EC) No 152/2009, FDA 21 CFR Part 500 series, and Chinese GB/T 6434–2006. Full audit trails—including operator ID, start/stop timestamps, temperature logs, and method version—are exportable via USB for 21 CFR Part 11–compliant environments when paired with Gerhardt’s optional LabSoft Suite.

Software & Data Management

While the FBS6 operates as a standalone hardware unit, it is fully interoperable with Gerhardt’s LabSoft 4.2 software suite (Windows 10/11 compatible). LabSoft enables method parameter storage (digestion time, acid/base concentration, ash temperature), automated result calculation per AOAC equations, and direct integration with LIMS platforms via ASTM E1384-compliant XML export. All raw temperature and timer events are timestamped with microsecond resolution and stored locally on an internal SD card (included), supporting retrospective review during internal audits or accreditation assessments (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 7.7).

Applications

• Determination of crude fiber (CF) in compound feeds, premixes, and raw materials per AOAC 962.09
• Preparatory digestion step for sequential ADF (Acid Detergent Fiber), NDF (Neutral Detergent Fiber), and ADL (Acid Detergent Lignin) analysis when coupled with Gerhardt Fibretherm systems
• Quality control in feed mills, agricultural research stations, and contract testing laboratories accredited to ISO/IEC 17025
• Method development and validation studies requiring full transparency of digestion conditions
• Training applications in university food science and animal nutrition curricula

FAQ

Does the FBS6 include filtration or ashing functionality?
No—the FBS6 performs only the acid-base digestion stage. Filtration is carried out manually using vacuum-assisted filter holders, and ashing requires a separate muffle furnace calibrated per ISO 5659-2.
Can the FBS6 be used for NDF analysis?
Yes—as a dedicated digestion module within a complete fiber fractionation workflow. NDF determination requires neutral detergent solution (EDTA, sodium lauryl sulfate, borax, phosphate buffer) and must be followed by enzymatic treatment (α-amylase) and filtration; the FBS6 provides thermally stable, reproducible digestion but does not dispense reagents.
Is third-party calibration certification available?
Yes—Gerhardt offers factory-issued calibration certificates traceable to PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt) for temperature and timer modules, valid for 12 months from date of issue.
What maintenance is required for long-term operation?
Annual verification of temperature uniformity across the heating block and visual inspection of gasket integrity on the reflux condenser assembly. No routine lubrication or consumable replacement is specified beyond standard lab-grade reagents and certified filter bags.