PLANT MANAGEMENT When testing moisture content with
legacy composition analysers, users can expect to wait between 5 and 15 minutes or more for a reading. When performing more complex chemical testing like water activity, protein, fat, and ash content, the wait time extends exponentially. With some composition analysers, one can expect to wait between 24 and 48 hours when testing for the presence of some constituents. These testing delays not only slow
R&D and product development but also allow any fl aws or defi ciencies to proceed into production. The overall costs of slow test cycles can be even more debilitating to processors and manufacturers when routine or recurrent testing must be performed as part of ongoing quality assurance. However, a NIR composition
analyser can produce accurate test results in a fraction of the time of traditional methods. Instruments can take a reading over the test subject or product stream for online models as well as desktop models like Kett’s BS-F1700 Compact Fiber Beat Sensor. Light is transmitted through the sample if translucent or transparent, or refl ected off the process sample with models that measure the amount of light absorbed by the subject. The absorbance readings are then converted into component values by analysing the composition of the subject based on the instrument’s exact calibrations. “Today, NIR spectroscopy provides
non-destructive laboratory quality readings in real-time. Often, this requires no sample preparation and no contact with the sample. These instruments off er precise, virtually instant readings of moisture, composition analysis, even full- spectrum composition,” says Bogart. He explains that this kind of full-
spectrum testing allows users to measure a broad range of targeted factors in real time, with only initial instrument calibration necessary. Afterwards, accurate readings are nearly instantaneous which dramatically reduces the time needed for each test cycle. He explains that NIR composition
analysis cuts the amount of labour and payroll required for each test cycle, eliminating the need to purchase and then pay for the disposal of chemical
NIR composition meters are capable of testing products in real time
reagents necessary for testing, as well as dramatically decreasing the instances of human error that mandate repeat testing. Since NIR composition analysers
are designed with speed and accuracy in mind, there is no learning curve for sample preparation. For most models, there is no sample to prepare at all. In some cases, tests can be performed even on the production line without the risk of user error. The costs are reduced the most for
online NIR composition meters that are capable of testing products in real-time during production such as Kett’s KJT700. These models do not need to pause for sample preparation or long test cycles, which could
otherwise delay production or even take it off line. “To the casual eye, it may seem like
there are almost as many composition analysers out there as there are uses for them, but fi nding the perfect match for one’s needs, budget, and test cycle length can make all the diff erence to the outcome. Working with an experienced partner can help to narrow the fi eld to select a precise, speedy composition analyser that is tailored to a business’s needs and built to last,” concludes Bogart.
For more information visit:
www.kett.com
www.engineerlive.com 23 Today, NIR spectroscopy
provides non-destructive laboratory quality readings in real time
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