Moisture Measurement
Moisture measurement in the sampling of bulk materials is a crucial step as it impacts various aspects related to the handling and quality of the bulk material. Here are some reasons why moisture measurement is important:
- Product Quality: Moisture can significantly affect the quality of the bulk material. For example, high moisture content in food or feed can lead to the formation of mold or other microorganisms. In construction materials like sand or cement, moisture can influence workability.
- Storage and Shelf Life: Excessive moisture content can cause storage issues, especially if the material tends to clump in humid conditions. Additionally, the shelf life of products, particularly food and feed, can be shortened by high moisture content.
- Transport and Handling: Moisture can affect the weight of the bulk material, which can impact transportation and costs. Moreover, moisture can alter the flow properties of bulk materials, making unloading and processing more challenging.
- Economic Considerations: Many processes involve buying or selling bulk materials based on weight. Since moisture increases weight without adding value to the product, accurate moisture measurement can ensure fair transactions.
To address these and other considerations, moisture measurement is conducted to determine the precise amount of water in the bulk material. This information is then used to make decisions regarding storage, transportation, sale, and utilization.