Hexi RH2010SF-1 Microwave Moisture Analyzer

Overview

The Hexi RH2010SF-1 Microwave Moisture Analyzer is an industrial-grade, non-destructive inline moisture measurement system engineered for real-time quantitative analysis of water content in bulk solid and semi-solid materials. It operates on the principle of microwave dielectric spectroscopy: water molecules exhibit strong and frequency-dependent dielectric absorption in the microwave region—particularly at 2.45 GHz—while most dry matrix components (e.g., starches, polymers, mineral fillers, or organic solids) demonstrate significantly lower loss tangents. By directing a stabilized, low-power microwave field through a precisely dimensioned measurement cell and analyzing the phase shift and amplitude attenuation of the transmitted signal, the instrument calculates moisture concentration based on calibrated dielectric response models. Unlike thermal drying or Karl Fischer titration methods, this technique requires no sample preparation, consumables, or chemical reagents, enabling continuous, operator-independent monitoring with sub-second measurement cycles—ideal for high-throughput production lines in food processing, chemical manufacturing, pharmaceutical excipient handling, and agro-industrial drying operations.

Key Features

• Fixed-frequency microwave source operating in the ISM band (2.45 GHz), optimized for robust signal-to-noise ratio and minimal interference from ambient electromagnetic noise
• Automated, gravity-fed or belt-driven sample introduction system ensuring consistent volumetric presentation and eliminating manual loading variability
• TFT-LED digital display with real-time moisture readout, configurable averaging windows (1–10 s), and pass/fail threshold indicators
• Onboard microprocessor executing proprietary correction algorithms that compensate for density fluctuations, particle size distribution, and temperature drift using dual-sensor input (microwave + optional integrated thermistor)
• Modular hardware architecture supporting integration into PLC-controlled production systems via 4–20 mA analog output and Modbus RTU serial interface
• Self-calibration routine initiated prior to each measurement sequence, referencing internal dry-air and saturated reference standards

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RH2010SF-1 is validated for homogeneous or moderately heterogeneous materials with stable dielectric properties across the target moisture range (0–60% w/w). Typical applications include granulated sugar, powdered milk, PVC resin, urea fertilizer, corn grits, soybean meal, and ceramic slip. It is not suitable for highly conductive, metallic, or magnetically loaded samples. The analyzer conforms to the fundamental physical principles outlined in ISO 712:2017 (Cereals and cereal products — Determination of moisture content — Reference method) and aligns with the instrumental validation framework of ASTM D4017 – 22 (Standard Test Method for Water Content of Paints, Varnishes, Lacquers, and Related Products by Loss in Weight). While not certified for regulated GMP environments out-of-the-box, its data logging architecture supports traceability when paired with external audit-trail software compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.

Software & Data Management

The RH2010SF-1 includes embedded firmware with user-configurable calibration tables stored in non-volatile memory. Each calibration profile is assigned a unique identifier and timestamp, with up to 32 material-specific profiles supported. Optional PC-based configuration software (Hexi MoistureLink v2.1) enables advanced functions including trend charting, statistical process control (SPC) chart generation (X-bar/R), CSV export, and alarm log review. All measurement records include metadata: date/time stamp, calibration ID, operator code (if enabled), ambient temperature, and raw dielectric parameters. Data integrity is preserved via cyclic redundancy check (CRC) verification during transmission and storage. Firmware updates are performed via USB-C interface with signed binary verification.

Applications

• Continuous moisture monitoring of extruded snack pellets pre- and post-drying in food manufacturing
• In-line quality assurance of polymer granules entering injection molding stations
• Real-time adjustment of steam injection rates in fluidized bed dryers for pharmaceutical excipients
• Batch release verification of agricultural commodities at receiving docks without offline lab delay
• Process validation support during scale-up of wet granulation processes per ICH Q5A and Q8(R2) guidelines

FAQ

Does the RH2010SF-1 require periodic recalibration with reference standards?

Yes. While the instrument performs automatic zero and span checks before each measurement cycle, full recalibration using NIST-traceable moisture standards (e.g., potassium hydrogen phthalate or calcium carbide reference materials) is recommended every 90 days or after any mechanical impact to the sensor housing.
Can it measure moisture in liquid suspensions or emulsions?

No. The RH2010SF-1 is designed exclusively for free-flowing solids and powders with particle sizes between 50 µm and 5 mm. Liquids cause excessive signal reflection and violate the transmission-mode geometry assumptions.
Is the microwave emission safe for operators?

Yes. The system operates at ≤10 mW output power and is fully shielded per IEC 61000-4-3 radiated immunity and EN 50371 leakage limits. No special PPE or exclusion zones are required during normal operation.
What maintenance intervals are specified?

Daily visual inspection of feed chute and measurement tube for buildup; quarterly cleaning of waveguide coupling surfaces with isopropyl alcohol; annual verification of analog output linearity using precision current source.