Sartorius MA35 Infrared Moisture Analyzer
| Brand | Sartorius |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Manufacture | China |
| Model | MA35M |
| Heating Method | Infrared (Dual Metal-Tube IR Emitters) |
| Max Capacity | 35 g |
| Readability | 1 mg |
| Temperature Range | 40–160 °C (1 °C increments) |
| Heating Technology | IRPlug&Dry® Reflective Infrared Heating |
| Endpoint Detection | Automatic or Timed (0.1–99 min) |
| Compliance | FDA/HACCP-compliant versions available (V2 suffix) |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 224 × 366 × 191 mm |
| Weight | ~5.8 kg |
| Interface | RS-232C (unidirectional) |
| Sample Pan Diameter | 90 mm |
| Display | Graphical LCD with intuitive icon-based navigation |
| Reporting | GLP-compliant print templates (via optional thermal printer) |
Overview
The Sartorius MA35 Infrared Moisture Analyzer is a robust, entry-level thermogravimetric instrument engineered for routine moisture content determination in quality control laboratories, production environments, and educational settings. It operates on the principle of infrared drying coupled with high-precision analytical weighing — a method standardized under ISO 5530-1, AOAC 952.08, and ASTM D4442 for rapid, non-destructive moisture loss quantification. Unlike halogen-based systems, the MA35 employs dual high-efficiency metal-tube infrared emitters (IRPlug&Dry® technology), which deliver uniform radiant heat across the sample surface via an integrated reflective cavity. This ensures reproducible drying kinetics without hot-spot formation or sample charring — critical for thermally sensitive materials such as pharmaceutical granules, food powders, or polymer resins. With a 35 g maximum load capacity and 1 mg readability, the MA35 delivers traceable, repeatable results while maintaining compliance with regulatory frameworks governing process validation and documentation integrity.
Key Features
- Intuitive icon-driven graphical interface guiding users through tare → sample loading → start in three clear steps
- Dual metal-tube infrared heating system with full reflector geometry for homogeneous thermal distribution
- Adjustable temperature control from 40 °C to 160 °C in 1 °C increments, enabling method optimization for diverse matrices
- Two endpoint detection modes: automatic (based on weight stabilization threshold) and programmable timed drying (0.1–99 minutes)
- FDA/HACCP-compliant configuration available (model suffix V2), featuring all-plastic construction and no glass components
- Compact footprint (224 × 366 × 191 mm) and lightweight design (~5.8 kg) suitable for benchtop deployment in constrained lab spaces
- RS-232C unidirectional data interface for integration with LIMS or external printers; supports standard GLP reporting templates
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MA35 accommodates solid, semi-solid, and powdered samples within the recommended initial mass range of 1–5 g (±0.2 g for 1 g, ±0.05 g for 5 g), ensuring optimal signal-to-noise ratio during gravimetric monitoring. Its 90 mm diameter stainless-steel sample pan provides sufficient surface area for even layering and consistent infrared absorption. The analyzer is validated for moisture content determination across broad ranges (1–100 % w/w), supporting applications in food safety (HACCP Critical Control Points), pharmaceutical excipient release testing, and raw material acceptance per USP & EP monographs. While not equipped with built-in EC-type approval or internal calibration weights, the MA35 meets essential requirements for routine QC use under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories when operated with documented procedures, external calibration records, and traceable reference standards.
Software & Data Management
The MA35 operates without proprietary software — all functions are managed locally via its embedded firmware and front-panel interface. Measurement data (moisture %, dry matter %, residue mass in grams, and drying time) are displayed in real time and retained in volatile memory until overwritten by the next measurement. For auditability, optional thermal printers connected via RS-232C generate immutable hard-copy reports containing date/time stamps, operator ID (manually entered), method parameters, and final results — fully compliant with basic GLP documentation expectations. Though lacking 21 CFR Part 11 electronic signature functionality or password-protected user roles, the device supports structured data export for downstream analysis in Excel or statistical process control (SPC) platforms.
Applications
- Moisture verification of incoming raw materials (e.g., starches, lactose, cellulose derivatives) in pharmaceutical manufacturing
- In-process moisture monitoring of wet granules prior to fluid-bed drying or tablet compression
- Final product release testing for snacks, cereals, dairy powders, and pet food according to AOAC guidelines
- Educational demonstrations of thermogravimetric principles in chemistry and food science curricula
- Quality assurance of industrial chemicals, catalysts, and desiccants where hygroscopicity impacts performance
FAQ
Does the MA35 include internal calibration or automatic adjustment features?
No — the MA35 requires external calibration using certified weights at defined intervals per laboratory SOPs.
Can the MA35 be used for volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis?
No — it measures total volatile loss interpreted as moisture; dedicated GC or Karl Fischer titration is required for selective water quantification in VOC-rich matrices.
Is the IR heating system replaceable in the field?
Yes — the IRPlug&Dry® heating module is a modular component designed for straightforward replacement without specialized tools.
What is the typical drying time for a 2 g flour sample at 105 °C?
Approximately 5–8 minutes under automatic termination mode, depending on ambient humidity and sample particle size distribution.
Does the MA35 support multi-step heating protocols?
No — it implements single-stage infrared drying only; advanced ramp-hold profiles require higher-tier models such as the Sartorius MOCO series.
