MakeWave MKC-G1C1B Microwave-Thermogravimetric Drying Oven

Overview

The MakeWave MKC-G1C1B Microwave-Thermogravimetric Drying Oven is an integrated laboratory platform engineered for simultaneous microwave-assisted drying, far-infrared heating, and real-time thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Unlike conventional convection ovens, this system employs 2450 MHz continuous-wave microwave energy—delivered via a magnetron with non-pulsed, infinitely variable power control—to induce rapid, volumetric dielectric heating within solid or semi-solid samples. Coupled with a 1500 W far-infrared emitter array and a high-stability Φ100 mm weighing platform (1000 g capacity, 0.01 g resolution), the MKC-G1C1B enables precise mass-loss monitoring under controlled thermal conditions from ambient to 300 °C. Its dual-sensor temperature measurement system—comprising both infrared pyrometry and K-type thermocouple feedback—ensures closed-loop thermal regulation with ±1 °C stability across the full operating range. The unit is designed for applications requiring accelerated moisture removal, solvent evaporation, catalyst activation, or decomposition kinetics studies where conventional conductive heating yields insufficient temporal resolution or sample heterogeneity.

Key Features

• Integrated microwave (800 W, 2450 MHz) and far-infrared (1500 W) heating modules for synergistic thermal delivery
• Seamless 304 stainless steel cavity (≈20 L volume) with multi-layer PTFE coating for chemical resistance and thermal stability up to 300 °C
• Motor-driven vertical lift stirrer mechanism for homogeneous heat/mass transfer during drying or thermal treatment
• Real-time thermogravimetric measurement via high-precision load cell (0.01 g resolution), synchronized with temperature and power profiles
• PLC-based control architecture with 7-inch color touchscreen interface, supporting multi-step programmable protocols, curve visualization, and USB data export
• Comprehensive safety architecture: λ/4 choke door seal, interlocked door switch, pressure-relief sliding latch, and forced negative-pressure exhaust system
• LED illumination and optional real-time video monitoring port for visual process verification without opening the cavity

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MKC-G1C1B accommodates a wide range of sample forms—including powders, granules, gels, thin films, and small-part assemblies—within standard crucibles, ceramic boats, or custom trays placed on the Φ100 mm weighing platform. Its corrosion-resistant cavity and inert PTFE lining support exposure to mildly acidic or alkaline volatiles generated during drying or thermal decomposition. The system meets electromagnetic compatibility requirements per IEC 61000-4-3 and adheres to national microwave safety limits (GB 4706.21), with verified leakage <5 mW/cm² at 5 cm distance. While not classified as a GLP-compliant TGA instrument per ASTM E1131 or ISO 11358, its data logging functionality—including timestamped temperature, weight, power, and time parameters—supports internal method validation and audit-ready recordkeeping under ISO 9001 quality management frameworks.

Software & Data Management

Control and acquisition are managed through an embedded PLC with proprietary firmware, accessible via a responsive capacitive touchscreen. Users define multi-stage drying protocols with independent setpoints for microwave power (%), far-infrared output (W), target temperature (°C), dwell time (min), and stirring frequency (rpm). All operational variables—including real-time weight drift, cavity temperature deviation, and cumulative energy input—are logged at user-selectable intervals (1–60 s) and stored internally (≥10,000 data points) or exported to USB flash drives in CSV format. The system supports up to 20 programmable methods, each with editable names, notes, and version stamps. Audit trail functionality includes operator ID tagging (via optional login module), parameter change history, and automatic timestamping of all start/stop events—facilitating traceability in regulated environments aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles (when paired with external electronic signature infrastructure).

Applications

• Rapid moisture content determination in pharmaceutical excipients, food powders, and ceramic precursors
• Thermal stability screening of battery electrode materials under controlled atmosphere (with optional gas purge kit)
• Kinetic modeling of solvent evaporation rates in inkjet-printed functional layers
• Pre-treatment conditioning of catalyst supports prior to BET surface area analysis
• Accelerated aging studies of polymer composites under combined thermal and electromagnetic stress
• Residue-on-ignition (ROI) quantification in environmental soil or sludge samples per EPA Method 9081A adaptations

FAQ

Can the MKC-G1C1B be used for quantitative TGA analysis comparable to dedicated benchtop TGA instruments?
No—it is not calibrated or validated for absolute mass-loss quantification per ASTM E1131. It provides high-resolution relative mass tracking under defined thermal-microwave conditions, suitable for comparative studies and method development.
Is inert gas purging supported?
Not natively; however, two 6-mm NPT ports are provided on the rear panel for integration with external nitrogen or argon supply lines using user-supplied regulators and flow meters.
What maintenance is required for the microwave generator?
The magnetron requires no scheduled replacement under normal use; periodic inspection of waveguide integrity and cavity coating adhesion is recommended every 12 months or after 2000 operating hours.
Does the system comply with CE or UL standards?
It carries ISO 9001 certification and meets Chinese national safety standards (GB); CE/UL listing is available upon request for OEM integration or regional regulatory submission support.
Can data be exported to LIMS or SCADA systems?
Yes—via USB storage or optional RS-485/Modbus RTU interface (firmware upgrade required), enabling direct integration into laboratory information management systems or centralized process control networks.