Sartorius MA37 Infrared Moisture Analyzer

Overview

The Sartorius MA37 Infrared Moisture Analyzer is a high-performance, thermogravimetric moisture determination system engineered for precision, repeatability, and operational efficiency in regulated laboratory and quality control environments. Based on the proven design heritage of the MA35 platform, the MA37 integrates an optimized infrared heating module with a high-stability analytical balance to deliver rapid, non-destructive moisture loss-on-drying (LOD) measurements. Unlike traditional halogen-based systems, the MA37 employs a precisely controlled metal heating element that ensures uniform thermal distribution across the sample surface—minimizing localized overheating and improving result consistency for thermally sensitive materials such as pharmaceutical excipients, polymers, botanicals, and food powders. The instrument operates in full compliance with standardized thermogravimetric principles defined in ASTM D4442, ISO 1183-1, USP , and AOAC 952.03, supporting method validation and routine QC workflows under GLP and GMP frameworks.

Key Features

• 70 g maximum weighing capacity with dual-range accuracy: ±0.2 % for samples >1 g and ±0.05 % for samples >5 g—enabling reliable quantification across diverse sample masses.
• Integrated metal infrared heater delivering stable, controllable thermal output without filament degradation or spectral drift over time.
• Ergonomic removable hood featuring a wide opening angle and SoftClose damping mechanism—facilitating rapid sample loading, visual inspection, and residue cleaning without mechanical stress.
• Intuitive graphical user interface with real-time drying curve visualization, step-by-step status feedback, and customizable drying profiles (standard, gentle, ramp, and step modes).
• Robust architecture designed for continuous operation in ISO Class 5–8 cleanrooms and industrial QC labs; meets IEC 61000-4 electromagnetic compatibility requirements.
• Low maintenance design: no consumable lamps, no recalibration of heating source, and corrosion-resistant stainless-steel sample pan support.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MA37 accommodates solid, semi-solid, granular, and powdered samples—including hygroscopic, volatile, or heat-labile substances—across a validated moisture content range of 1–100 %. Its gentle thermal profile supports applications where conventional halogen or microwave methods risk decomposition (e.g., lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, freeze-dried biologics). All measurement protocols are fully traceable and support audit-ready documentation per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with Sartorius LabX software. Instrument qualification packages (IQ/OQ/PQ) and standard operating procedures (SOPs) align with ISO/IEC 17025, USP , and Ph. Eur. 2.2.32 requirements.

Software & Data Management

When connected to Sartorius LabX™ desktop software, the MA37 enables centralized method management, automated data export (CSV, PDF, XML), electronic signature workflows, and full audit trail functionality—including user action logging, parameter change history, and result modification tracking. LabX supports multi-instrument synchronization, statistical process control (SPC) charting, and integration with LIMS or ERP systems via ODBC or REST API. Standalone operation retains full method storage (up to 99 methods), password-protected user levels (operator, supervisor, administrator), and internal memory for ≥1,000 results with timestamps and operator IDs.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical: LOD testing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and final dosage forms per USP and EP 2.2.32.
• Food & Agriculture: Moisture analysis in cereals, dairy powders, coffee beans, and pet food—supporting shelf-life prediction and HACCP compliance.
• Chemicals & Polymers: Resin moisture verification prior to extrusion or molding; catalyst drying assessment.
• Environmental & Materials Science: Soil moisture content determination, clay mineral hydration state analysis, and battery electrode slurry moisture profiling.
• Academic Research: Teaching thermogravimetric fundamentals and validating novel drying kinetics models.

FAQ

What standards does the MA37 comply with for moisture determination?
The MA37 adheres to ASTM D4442 (wood moisture), ISO 1183-1 (plastics), USP (pharmaceuticals), AOAC 952.03 (food), and Ph. Eur. 2.2.32 (loss on drying).
Can the MA37 be used for volatile organic compound (VOC) analysis?
No—the MA37 measures total volatile loss as moisture-equivalent mass loss; it does not differentiate between water and other volatiles. For speciation, coupling with GC-MS or Karl Fischer titration is recommended.
Is calibration required before each use?
External weight calibration is recommended daily or per SOP; internal calibration is automatic upon startup. Temperature sensor verification using certified reference materials is advised quarterly.
Does the MA37 support network connectivity?
Yes—via Ethernet or USB-to-Ethernet adapter when integrated with LabX software for remote monitoring, centralized data archiving, and role-based access control.
How is sample residue cleaned from the heating chamber?
The removable hood and open-angle design allow unobstructed access; stainless-steel pans are dishwasher-safe, and chamber surfaces can be wiped with ethanol or isopropanol without disassembly.