Sartorius MA45/MA145 Next-Generation Infrared Moisture Analyzer

Overview

The Sartorius MA45/MA145 Next-Generation Infrared Moisture Analyzer is a precision thermogravimetric instrument engineered for rapid, reliable moisture content determination in solid and semi-solid samples. It operates on the principle of infrared (IR) drying coupled with high-resolution analytical weighing—measuring mass loss as a function of time and temperature to quantify moisture via standardized loss-on-drying (LOD) methodology. As the direct successor to the widely deployed MA30 platform, the MA45/MA145 integrates refined thermal architecture, enhanced mechanical stability, and regulatory-compliant data handling without compromising operational familiarity. Designed for routine QC laboratories, raw material inspection, and in-process control environments, it delivers traceable, repeatable results aligned with internationally recognized test protocols including ASTM E1868, ISO 12099, and USP <921>. Its compact footprint and intuitive interface reduce training overhead while maintaining full compliance with GLP documentation requirements and configurable alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and HACCP validation frameworks.

Key Features

• Monolithic dual-lever analytical sensor with 1 mg readability and ±0.05% repeatability (for initial sample mass ≥5 g), ensuring long-term stability and minimal drift under continuous operation.
• Adjustable IR heating system utilizing either ceramic or quartz emitters—engineered for uniform radiant heat distribution across the sample surface, minimizing thermal gradients and accelerating drying kinetics.
• Programmable temperature range: 40–230 °C (MA45) or 40–160 °C (MA145), adjustable in 1 °C increments, supporting method development for thermally sensitive or refractory matrices.
• Three endpoint detection modes: fully automatic (mass stabilization threshold), semi-automatic (user-defined mass loss rate: 1–20 mg over 24 s), and timer-based (0.1–99 min), enabling flexibility across diverse sample types and SOPs.
• Backlit LCD display with multilingual interface (5 languages), symbolic and numeric prompts, and integrated operation guidance cards for rapid user onboarding.
• Fold-open chamber design with removable weighing pan facilitates complete access for cleaning and residue removal—critical for cross-contamination prevention in regulated environments.
• RS-232C serial interface supports bidirectional communication with PCs and certified printers (e.g., YDP03-0CE) for audit-trail generation and electronic data archiving.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The MA45/MA145 accommodates a broad spectrum of industrial and pharmaceutical materials—including powders, granules, pellets, pastes, and thin films—with maximum sample capacities of 45 g (MA45) or 145 g (MA145). Its modular heating chamber allows optional aluminum front panel substitution for glass, satisfying FDA/HACCP requirements for non-shattering, cleanable surfaces in food safety applications. All printed outputs conform to GLP standards: timestamped measurement reports, calibration records, and method parameters are generated in fixed-format layouts with embedded instrument ID, operator code (via password-protected access), and sequence numbering. Data integrity is reinforced by internal storage of the most recent result until overwritten, and optional electronic signature support via external software integration.

Software & Data Management

While the MA45/MA145 operates as a standalone instrument, its RS-232C port enables seamless connection to laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or custom data acquisition platforms. Print output includes mandatory metadata: date/time stamp, sample ID (user-entered), method name, final moisture %, dry weight %, residual mass (g), and endpoint mode used. Calibration logs contain verification date, standard mass applied, deviation, and technician ID—structured to satisfy internal QA audits and external inspections per ISO/IEC 17025 and GMP Annex 11. Password protection restricts access to setup menus, preventing unauthorized modification of temperature profiles, endpoint criteria, or system configuration.

Applications

This analyzer serves critical roles across multiple sectors: incoming raw material screening in food and feed production (e.g., flour, starch, dairy powders); moisture specification verification in pharmaceutical excipients and active ingredients; quality release testing of polymer resins and catalysts; and process monitoring in chemical synthesis and battery material manufacturing. Its speed-to-result advantage—typically under 5 minutes for many routine samples—supports high-throughput batch verification without sacrificing metrological rigor. The ability to report results in multiple units (% moisture, % dry basis, % ratio, absolute mass pre/post-dry, g/kg) ensures compatibility with internal reporting templates and regulatory submission formats.

FAQ

What regulatory standards does the MA45/MA145 support?
It supports GLP documentation requirements out-of-the-box and offers hardware/software configurations compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with validated third-party software) and HACCP food safety protocols.
Can I validate the instrument for GMP use?
Yes—the device supports IQ/OQ documentation packages, traceable calibration using certified weights, and generates audit-ready printouts with immutable timestamps and operator identifiers.
Is the heating source interchangeable between ceramic and quartz?
No—each unit is factory-configured with either ceramic or quartz IR emitters; selection must be specified at time of order.
How is repeatability verified during routine operation?
Users perform daily checks using certified reference standards; the instrument’s built-in calibration routine validates sensor linearity and thermal response consistency before each measurement session.
Does the MA45/MA145 support network connectivity?
It features RS-232C only; Ethernet or USB interfaces are not available—data transfer requires serial-to-USB adapters or dedicated PC interface software.