Microwave and infrared moisture and solids analyzer
The SMART 6 is a rapid moisture and solids analyzer that combines microwave and infrared energy for direct loss-on-drying measurements. Its dual-frequency drying technology enables laboratories to analyze both wet and dry samples using one instrument.
The system continuously monitors sample temperature to control the drying process. Compared with conventional halogen drying systems, the SMART 6 can reduce analysis times by up to ten times.
How does dual-frequency drying work?
The SMART 6 combines two forms of energy sources to remove free and bound moisture, as well as other volatile components.
Low-frequency microwave energy penetrates the sample and rapidly removes free moisture and polar volatile components through dipole rotation. Higher-frequency infrared energy heats the sample and supports the removal of bound moisture and non-polar volatile components.
Together, these technologies provide rapid and controlled drying across different sample types. Direct temperature monitoring helps reduce surface burning and incomplete drying.
Rapid moisture and solids analysis for different sample typesÂ
The SMART 6 determines moisture and solids content by measuring sample weight loss during drying. Its dual-frequency technology supports products with different moisture levels and compositions.
Typical applications include:
- Meat and poultry: moisture determination in beef, chicken, pork and processed meat products.
- Dairy products: moisture and solids analysis in cheese, milk powder, yogurt and ice cream.
- Food processing: moisture and solids determination for quality control and product consistency.
- Chemical products: solids determination in coatings, adhesives and latex.
- Other industrial materials: analysis of suitable water-based and solvent-containing samples.
Pre-programmed drying methods simplify routine analysis. Laboratories can also use established methods for different products and testing requirements.
Software and process monitoring
The SMART 6 includes user-friendly software for managing analytical methods, reviewing results and monitoring product consistency.
Statistical processing functions allow laboratories to evaluate measurement trends and generate Statistical Process Control (SPC) charts. These functions support quality control and help identify changes in production processes.
The system also supports connectivity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) for data transfer and record keeping.
AOAC methods and regulatory complianceÂ
The SMART 6 supports moisture and solids analysis associated with several AOAC methods, including:
- AOAC 985.14
- AOAC 2008.06
- AOAC PVM 1:2004
The instrument includes features supporting compliance with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. These include configurable user access and activity logging for traceability. Overall regulatory compliance also depends on the laboratory’s procedures, configuration and validation.
Combined moisture, solids, and fat analysis with ORACLE
The SMART 6 can be paired with the ORACLE Rapid NMR Fat Analyzer for combined moisture, solids and fat determination. The SMART 6 measures moisture or solids content using dual-frequency drying. The ORACLE then determines fat content using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology. Together, the instruments can provide moisture/solids and fat results in less than five minutes for suitable applications.
The combined workflow supports methods including:
- AOAC 2008.06: moisture and fat determination in meat products.
- AOAC PVM 1:2004: moisture/solids and fat determination in dairy products.






