Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF)
Are You Measuring Fiber Board Moisture?
Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) manufacturing requires a precise moisture range be present in order to achieve the highest quality product. The quality of the fibers being used to create the board are influenced by the moisture content of the fibers along with adding additonal moisture resin in the process. This creates multiple process interruptions, wasted time, energy and money
Precise control of raw material fiber will not only improve the resin addition but also provide an extra benefit of high quality board properties. The forming line will see major beneifts from moisture control when the press sees zero downtime due to blown boards, which is highly common of improper moisture content.
Many successful years of moisture control in the wood industry using Near-Infrared technology gives MoistTech the recognition of being the most advanced system available today.
PERFORMANCE
Unsurpassed in performance, our sensors can accurately measure moisture within tenths of a percent of most applications
STABILITY
MoistTech sensors withstand the test of time and are low to zero maintenance
RELIABILITY
Rely on MoistTech’s NIR moisture sensors to never drift or need re-calibration
COST OF OWNERSHIP
A moisture measurement system is essential for the production process and in some cases will pay for itself in less than 30 days
Installation
The IR-3000 MDF Moisture Sensor should be mounted several inches above the conveyor will allow the user to continuously monitor the process and can control the moisture content either manually or automatically in the MDF process.
The unique feature of the IR-3000 is that is able to monitor the process even with small gaps in product flow without impacting the accuracy. Moist Tech has also developed sample systems and optical windows using sapphire optics which will provide a viewing area for real time process measurement. Details of this can be seen on our section in sampling technology.
Dust from the product is not normally a problem however in extreme dusty environments we recommend the installation of an Air Purge System to prevent the accumulation of material on the sensor’s window. If the sensor has to be installed close to dryer outlet where it will be susceptible to extreme heat conditions, it may be necessary to cool the sensor with either air or water.
What is the Solution?
MoistTech has studied moisture and its applications in manufacturing for over 40 years. That’s why we’re confident our moisture analyzers are a step above the rest. We’re constantly working to develop the latest, most advanced moisture testing technology—which is how the IR-3000 came about.
We’ve combined our decades of experience and knowledge with feedback from our industry partners to create a moisture sensor capable of taking instant, non-contact measurements of moisture, temperature, and other vital levels with the utmost accuracy. When it comes to moisture sensors, the IR-3000 is the most advanced system available.
Assess
Locate the point in the production process in which measuring moisture will be the most crucial and beneficial. Identify how you will use the moisture measurement data for improvements and if it will tie into your PLC.
Remember this could involve more than one installation point!
Develop
A closed loop process is achieved by incorporating a moisture measurement system into the manufacturing process. Developing a proactive solution to moisture control will avoid costly downfalls.
Support
MoistTech’s experts will assess your specific application with lab tests, calibrations and accuracy results to ensure our equipment will peform for you. All of our sensors are pre-calibrated prior to being shipped to create a plug-and-play operation for the end-user.
Contact
We offer service and support throughout the world for our moisture measurement sensors and would be happy to connect you with a rep in your area. Contact us today for more information!
Understand the Process
A mounted moisture measurement and control sensor over the conveyed materials allows for line operators to avoid downtime, wasted materials, time and money. Insensitive to material variations such as particle size, material height & color, MoistTech developed the IR-3000 series of online sensors for instant, non-contact measurement of many products and raw materials in the harshest manufacturing environments. Continually monitoring and controlling moisture levels allows operating personnel to confidently make immediate process adjustments based on real-time measurements.
Benefits
Immediate process line benefits can be seen with proper moisture management and control as well as safety improvements. The ability to minimize costs and increase efficiency in the plant is easily achieved with moisture control. Both manufacturers and producers have this forefront of their agenda and knowing where improvements can be made allows for lean operating procedures.
- Reduction in Board Fires / Explosions Due to Dust
- Increased Product Quality
- Lowered Energy Costs from Proper Dryer Control
- Reduced Start-up Times
- Less Waste & Downtime
- 100% Product Inspection
- Significant Resin Cost Savings
The MoistTech staff is experienced with the MDF moisture sensing requirements in the medium density fiberboard manufacturing process. Our sensor calibrations, measurement wavelengths, algorithms and sensor optical requirements are pre-set at the factory. Typical accuracy is about ±0.1% moisture. Typical analog range is 0-20% moisture. The outputs can be adjusted to optimize PLC or recording requirements.
Check out our other wood moisture applications to learn more.