Sartorius MA100 Infrared Moisture Analyzer

Overview

The Sartorius MA100 Infrared Moisture Analyzer is a precision laboratory instrument engineered for rapid, reproducible determination of moisture content in solid and semi-solid samples via thermogravimetric analysis. It operates on the principle of loss-on-drying (LOD): sample mass is recorded before and after controlled thermal drying; the difference corresponds to evaporated moisture. Unlike conventional infrared analyzers relying solely on surface heating, the MA100 integrates motor-driven mechanical movement with a thermally optimized, EC-type-approved heating unit—ensuring uniform energy distribution and minimizing thermal gradients across heterogeneous samples. Its high-resolution analytical balance (0.1 mg readability) is factory-calibrated and compliant with EC Directive 2014/32/EU for non-automatic weighing instruments, providing metrological traceability essential for GLP, GMP, and ISO/IEC 17025 environments.

Key Features

• Motor-driven integrated heating unit: Combines heating element and sample chamber into a single synchronized assembly, eliminating cross-contamination risks and improving thermal contact consistency.
• Plug & Dry™ modular design: Enables full removal of the heating module without tools—facilitating rapid, residue-free cleaning after oily, sticky, or volatile sample spills.
• Multi-source heating flexibility: Supports three interchangeable heating technologies—ceramic infrared, halogen lamp, and quartz tube—each selectable based on sample thermal sensitivity, particle size, and required drying kinetics.
• SPRM (Smart Parameter Optimization): Automatically adapts drying temperature profiles, ramp rates, and endpoint criteria by referencing validated reference methods (e.g., Karl Fischer titration or oven-drying per ASTM D2298 or ISO 4611), generating user-specific, audit-ready drying programs.
• Built-in thermal printer (optional): Eliminates external cabling, reduces benchtop clutter, and ensures immediate hardcopy documentation compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with appropriate software configuration.
• EC-type approved weighing system and heating unit: Delivers legally recognized measurement integrity for quality control laboratories operating under EU regulatory frameworks.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MA100 accommodates a broad range of industrial and research-grade materials—including pharmaceutical powders, foodstuffs (e.g., flour, dairy powders), polymers, ceramics, soil, and agricultural commodities—within standard 90 mm aluminum sample pans. Its adjustable heating geometry and programmable hold phases support both delicate heat-labile matrices and refractory substances requiring extended drying cycles. The instrument meets key international standards for moisture analysis methodology, including ISO 13757 (plastics), ISO 712 (cereals), and ASTM D4442 (wood). All firmware and calibration routines are designed to support audit readiness under GLP, GMP, and ISO/IEC 17025 requirements, with full support for electronic signatures, audit trails, and data integrity controls when used with Sartorius LabX software.

Software & Data Management

While the MA100 operates as a standalone analyzer with intuitive front-panel navigation, it is fully compatible with Sartorius LabX™ desktop software for centralized method management, automated report generation, and secure data archiving. LabX enables role-based user access, electronic signature workflows, and 21 CFR Part 11–compliant audit trail logging—including timestamps, operator IDs, parameter changes, and result modifications. Raw mass vs. time datasets are exportable in CSV and PDF formats, supporting integration into LIMS and ERP systems. All calibration and verification records—including internal weight checks, temperature uniformity mapping, and drying curve validation—are digitally stored and retrievable for regulatory inspections.

Applications

The MA100 serves critical roles across regulated and R&D-intensive sectors: QC release testing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) per USP ; moisture specification verification in excipient manufacturing; shelf-life stability studies under ICH Q1 guidelines; incoming raw material inspection in food production per Codex Alimentarius standards; and process development in polymer extrusion where residual moisture affects melt viscosity. Its repeatability (RSD < 0.5% for homogeneous samples) and inter-instrument comparability make it suitable for multi-site method transfer and harmonized global quality systems.

FAQ

What heating technologies are supported by the MA100?
The MA100 accepts three interchangeable heating modules: ceramic infrared, halogen lamp, and quartz tube—each offering distinct thermal response profiles for optimal adaptation to sample composition and morphology.
Is the MA100 compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
Yes—when operated with LabX software configured for electronic signatures, audit trails, and secure user authentication, the MA100 supports full Part 11 compliance for electronic records and signatures.
How does the Plug & Dry™ feature improve maintenance workflow?
The Plug & Dry™ design allows complete, tool-free extraction of the heated sample chamber assembly, enabling thorough cleaning of both pan cavity and heater surfaces without disassembling internal electronics or compromising calibration integrity.
Can the MA100 be validated per IQ/OQ/PQ protocols?
Yes—Sartorius provides comprehensive validation documentation packages, including URS templates, test protocols, and evidence reports aligned with ASTM E2500 and Annex 15 of the EU GMP Guidelines.
Does the MA100 require external calibration weights?
No—the instrument includes internal automatic calibration routines using built-in reference masses; external verification with certified weights is recommended at defined intervals per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.5.