Overview
Moisture control is one of the most critical parameters in the production of animal kibble, directly influencing texture, nutritional composition, and shelf life. Because raw materials contain varying moisture levels, continuous online NIR moisture measurement is vital for maintaining consistent product quality, minimizing energy consumption, and ensuring cost efficiency.
MoistTech’s IR-3000 Near-Infrared (NIR) Moisture Sensor enables instant, non-contact, real-time analysis across key stages of kibble production. The IR-3000 ensures precise control of moisture levels in dry, semi-moist, and wet kibble varieties, providing manufacturers with consistent quality and measurable efficiency improvements.
Why Measure Moisture
Accurate, real-time moisture monitoring delivers multiple process and product benefits.
Quality Assurance
Energy Efficiency
Reduce Waste
Process Stability
Safety
RECOMMENDED MEASUREMENT LOCATIONS
Raw Ingredient Feed / Pre-Mixing
Measuring moisture in raw materials before mixing allows for accurate moisture balancing and formulation control. Moisture at this stage varies widely depending on the ingredients, typically 8–25%. Early measurement helps ensure proper water addition and uniformity before extrusion or baking.
Post-Extrusion / Pre-Dryer
This is the critical control point for kibble quality. After extrusion or cooking, moisture typically ranges between 20–30% and must be carefully reduced to achieve proper texture and prevent microbial growth. Real-time feedback at this stage enables optimized dryer temperature and residence time control.
Post Dryer / Cooling & Packaging
Measuring moisture after drying and cooling verifies the final moisture content before packaging. Finished kibble should typically maintain dry kibble at 6–12%, semi-moist kibble at 15–30%, and wet kibble at 75–78%.
Understand the Process
With the IR-3000, you’ll save money throughout the entire production process, while making the best quality product at the same time. With MoistTech, you don’t need to compromise.