KERN DIS Moisture Analyzers – High-Resolution Moisture Testing with Real-Time Drying Curves and Heating up to 250 °C

Advanced Thermogravimetric Moisture Analysis for Laboratories, Plastics Processing and Industrial Quality Control

The KERN DIS moisture analyzer series combines high-resolution weighing technology with intelligent drying process control and comprehensive measurement documentation.

Designed for demanding laboratory and industrial applications, these professional halogen moisture analyzers determine moisture content, dry matter, loss on drying and ATRO values using the thermogravimetric method.

A distinguishing feature of the KERN DIS series is its real-time graphical drying curve, allowing operators to observe changes in sample mass throughout the drying process.

Instead of relying exclusively on the final measurement result, users can monitor drying behavior and gain valuable information for optimizing analytical procedures.

The series comprises four models with different weighing capacities, readability levels and temperature ranges.

Two standard models offer drying temperatures up to 175 °C, while the DIS High-Temperature (HT) versions extend the maximum temperature to 250 °C.

This combination makes the KERN DIS series particularly attractive for laboratories requiring high weighing resolution, controlled drying procedures and advanced result management.

Key Features of the KERN DIS Series

• Electromagnetic force compensation weighing technology

• Model-dependent readability of 0.1 mg or 1 mg

• Maximum weighing capacities of 50 g or 120 g

• Halogen quartz-glass heating system with 400 W heating power

• Drying temperatures from 30 °C to 175 °C or 250 °C

• Four selectable drying profiles

• Real-time graphical visualization of the drying curve

• Convenient three-step operating procedure

• Internal storage for up to 1,000 measurement results

• Up to 1,000 freely programmable sample descriptions

• Password protection for stored settings

• USB interface for data transmission

• Backlit graphical LCD with 15 mm digit height

• 50 sample pans included

The KERN DIS moisture analyzers are designed for analytical laboratories, industrial quality assurance departments, plastics manufacturers, food processing companies, chemical laboratories and research institutions.

Four KERN DIS Models – Selecting the Right Weighing Performance and Drying Temperature

KERN DIS 50-4 – High-Resolution Moisture Analysis with 0.1 mg Readability

The KERN DIS 50-4 provides a maximum weighing capacity of 50 g and a readability of 0.0001 g.

This corresponds to weighing increments of just 0.1 mg.

The moisture display resolution is 0.0001%.

This configuration is particularly interesting for applications where small changes in sample mass need to be monitored during drying.

KERN specifically highlights this model for moisture analysis of suitable plastic granules.

Potential applications include:

• Residual moisture testing of compatible plastic pellets

• Industrial raw material inspection

• Analysis of small sample quantities

• Development of drying methods

• Research and material development

• High-resolution laboratory measurements

The drying temperature can be adjusted between 30 °C and 175 °C.

KERN DIS 100-3 – Increased Weighing Capacity for Versatile Laboratory Applications

The KERN DIS 100-3 offers a maximum weighing capacity of 120 g and a readability of 0.001 g.

Its moisture display resolution is 0.001%.

The increased weighing capacity makes this model suitable for laboratories that regularly analyze larger samples or different categories of materials.

Typical applications include:

• Food quality control

• Incoming goods inspection

• Chemical raw material testing

• Industrial production monitoring

• Environmental analysis

• Dry matter determination

The operating temperature range extends from 30 °C to 175 °C.

KERN DIS 50-4HT – High-Resolution Weighing with Drying Temperatures up to 250 °C

The KERN DIS 50-4HT combines the 0.1 mg readability of the DIS 50-4 with an extended drying temperature range.

With a 50 g weighing capacity, 0.0001 g readability and heating temperatures up to 250 °C, this model is particularly interesting for demanding analytical procedures involving suitable heat-resistant materials.

The HT version expands the possibilities for developing specialized drying methods.

Potential applications include:

• Analysis of compatible technical materials

• High-resolution testing of industrial raw materials

• Material research and development

• Investigation of drying behavior

• Testing of suitable heat-resistant samples

The maximum temperature of 250 °C does not mean that every material can safely be analyzed at this temperature.

Sample stability and method suitability must always be verified.

KERN DIS 100-3HT – 120 g Capacity and High-Temperature Drying up to 250 °C

The KERN DIS 100-3HT provides a maximum weighing capacity of 120 g, a readability of 0.001 g and a drying temperature range from 30 °C to 250 °C.

This combination is particularly attractive for industrial applications requiring larger sample quantities and elevated drying temperatures.

Potential applications include:

• Building materials

• Cement-related products

• Mineral raw materials

• Ceramic materials

• Chemical manufacturing

• Industrial quality assurance

• Research and development

The extended temperature range offers additional flexibility when adapting drying conditions to specific analytical requirements.

KERN DIS Moisture Analyzers – Technical Comparison

The most important selection criteria are the required weighing capacity, readability and maximum drying temperature.

Electromagnetic Force Compensation – Advanced Weighing Technology

Detecting Small Changes in Sample Mass

All four KERN DIS models use an electromagnetic force compensation weighing system.

This technology provides the basis for high-resolution mass measurement during the drying process.

The DIS 50-4 and DIS 50-4HT models are particularly interesting because their 0.1 mg readability allows very small mass changes to be displayed.

This can be valuable when investigating low levels of mass loss.

However, high weighing resolution must not be confused with the overall accuracy of moisture determination.

The quality of the analytical result also depends on sample preparation, sample quantity, heating conditions, environmental influences and method suitability.

Real-Time Drying Curve – Monitor the Entire Drying Process

Graphical Visualization Directly on the Display

One of the most distinctive features of the KERN DIS moisture analyzer series is the real-time graphical visualization of the drying process.

During measurement, the instrument displays the progression of drying as a graphical curve.

This provides additional information about how the sample behaves during heating.

The drying curve can help operators evaluate questions such as:

• How quickly is the sample losing mass?

• Does the drying rate change during the measurement?

• When does the result approach a stable endpoint?

• How do different drying temperatures affect the process?

• Does a different sample quantity change the drying behavior?

These observations are particularly useful when developing or optimizing analytical methods.

The real-time drying curve transforms the moisture analyzer from a simple result-generating instrument into a valuable tool for investigating drying behavior.

For laboratories working with different materials, this additional process information can support more consistent analytical procedures.

Intuitive Three-Step Operation

Tare – Add Sample – Start Measurement

Despite its advanced features, the KERN DIS series is designed for straightforward operation.

A typical measurement can be performed in three steps.

Step 1 – Tare

Place the empty sample pan on the weighing system and tare the instrument.

Step 2 – Add the Sample

Distribute a representative quantity of the material evenly across the sample pan.

Step 3 – Start the Measurement

Select the required drying parameters and start the analysis.

The graphical display provides information throughout the drying process.

This operating concept is particularly useful in laboratories and industrial environments where several operators use the same equipment.

Four Drying Profiles for Controlled Moisture Determination

Standard Drying

Standard drying is suitable for many routine applications using a defined drying temperature.

It provides a practical starting point for developing repeatable analytical procedures.

Rapid Drying

Rapid drying is intended for compatible materials that can tolerate accelerated heating.

Under suitable conditions, it may help reduce total measurement time.

Gentle Drying

Gentle drying offers a more controlled heating progression for materials sensitive to rapid temperature changes.

It may help reduce certain undesirable thermal effects during analysis.

Step Drying

Step drying allows different temperature stages to be applied within a single measurement.

This is particularly useful for materials with complex drying characteristics.

The appropriate drying profile should always be selected according to the properties of the sample and the analytical objective.

High-Temperature Moisture Analyzers up to 250 °C

When Should You Choose a KERN DIS HT Model?

The DIS 50-4HT and DIS 100-3HT extend the maximum drying temperature from 175 °C to 250 °C.

This additional temperature range expands the possibilities for analyzing suitable heat-resistant materials.

A high-temperature model may be particularly useful when a material cannot be dried sufficiently under lower-temperature conditions or when the required analytical method specifies elevated temperatures.

Potential applications include:

• Selected mineral materials

• Suitable building materials

• Heat-resistant industrial powders

• Ceramic raw materials

• Compatible chemical substances

• Research into drying behavior

Higher drying temperatures are not automatically better.

Excessive heating may cause oxidation, decomposition or other changes that influence the measured mass loss.

The choice of an HT model should therefore be based on the actual material and method requirements.

Memory for up to 1,000 Measurement Results

Extensive Data Storage for Industrial Quality Control

The KERN DIS series offers internal storage for up to 1,000 measurement results.

This capacity is particularly valuable for laboratories and industrial departments performing numerous measurements over time.

Potential applications include:

• Series measurements

• Incoming material inspections

• Batch comparisons

• Production quality control

• Research projects

• Repeated analytical procedures

The most recent measurement result remains visible until the next measurement.

An integrated date and time display helps associate results with individual analyses.

Up to 1,000 Programmable Sample Descriptions

Improved Sample Identification and Documentation

In addition to result storage, the KERN DIS series supports up to 1,000 freely programmable sample descriptions.

These descriptions can be included in measurement reports.

This makes it easier to distinguish between different materials, batches, products or analytical projects.

The function is particularly useful for laboratories managing extensive sample collections and recurring testing procedures.

Combined with the result memory, programmable sample descriptions support organized laboratory workflows.

Password Protection for Stored Settings

Greater Control Over Established Methods

The KERN DIS series provides password protection for stored settings and data.

This helps reduce the risk of unintended modifications to established analytical parameters.

It can be particularly valuable in shared laboratories and industrial facilities with multiple operators.

Password protection supports controlled method handling, although it does not replace comprehensive electronic data integrity or regulatory access management systems.

Backlit Graphical LCD with Adjustable Display Settings

Clear Presentation of Analytical Information

KERN DIS moisture analyzers feature a backlit graphical LCD with 15 mm digits.

Display characteristics can be adjusted to suit the working environment.

These include settings for digit presentation, contrast and background illumination.

Depending on the selected display mode, users can view information such as:

• Moisture content

• Dry matter

• ATRO values

• Absolute remaining mass

• Drying progression

• Temperature and measurement time

The combination of graphical process monitoring and numerical results supports convenient operation during routine and advanced analyses.

USB Connectivity for Laboratory Data Management

Transfer Measurement Results to Compatible Equipment

The KERN DIS series includes a USB interface for transmitting measurement data to compatible devices.

Depending on the equipment configuration, data can be transferred to suitable computers or printers.

This can support:

• Electronic measurement documentation

• Preparation of test reports

• Quality assurance records

• Batch comparisons

• Evaluation of repeated measurements

Compatibility with specific software packages, printers and laboratory information management systems should be confirmed before implementation.

Thermogravimetric Moisture Determination – How It Works

Measuring Mass Loss During Controlled Heating

The KERN DIS moisture analyzers use the thermogravimetric loss-on-drying principle.

A representative sample is first weighed to determine its initial mass.

The sample is then heated according to the selected drying parameters.

During heating, water and other potentially volatile components may evaporate.

The integrated weighing system monitors the resulting decrease in mass.

Moisture content expressed relative to the initial mass is commonly calculated using:

Moisture (%) = [(Initial Mass − Final Mass) / Initial Mass] × 100

For example:

Initial sample mass: 10.000 g

Final sample mass: 8.000 g

Measured loss on drying: 20%

Remaining dry matter: 80%

Loss on Drying Is Not Always Equivalent to Water Content

Thermogravimetric analysis measures the total mass loss under the selected drying conditions.

It does not necessarily distinguish water from solvents or other volatile substances.

Where water-specific determination is required, Karl Fischer titration or another selective analytical method may be more appropriate.

KERN DIS for Plastic Pellets and Polymer Processing

High-Resolution Residual Moisture Analysis

Residual moisture is an important quality parameter in the processing of certain polymers.

Hygroscopic plastic materials may require controlled drying before injection molding, extrusion or other manufacturing processes.

Excessive moisture can contribute to processing problems and reduced product quality in some polymers.

KERN particularly highlights the DIS 50-4 for suitable plastic granule applications.

Its 0.1 mg readability makes it possible to display small mass changes during drying.

Potential applications include:

• Incoming inspection of plastic pellets

• Comparison of raw material batches

• Evaluation of drying processes

• Quality control before injection molding

• Testing before extrusion

• Development of suitable drying parameters

For extremely low residual water contents, the suitability of thermogravimetric analysis must be evaluated carefully.

Karl Fischer titration may be more appropriate for certain polymers and very low moisture levels.

KERN DIS in the Food Industry

Moisture and Dry Matter Testing of Food Ingredients

Moisture content is an important parameter in food quality control.

It can influence texture, processing behavior, storage stability and product consistency.

The KERN DIS series can be used with suitable samples such as:

• Flour

• Cereals

• Coffee

• Tea

• Spices

• Milk powder

• Dried food ingredients

• Animal feed

The real-time drying curve provides additional information about sample behavior during heating.

This can be useful when investigating different drying temperatures or developing repeatable testing procedures.

KERN DIS for Building Materials and Cement Applications

High-Temperature Testing with KERN DIS HT

The high-temperature models are particularly interesting for suitable mineral and building materials.

Different substances may require different thermal conditions to achieve the desired analytical endpoint.

Potential applications include:

• Cement-related materials

• Mineral raw materials

• Ceramic materials

• Technical powders

• Compatible building material samples

The HT models offer drying temperatures up to 250 °C, providing an extended range for suitable analytical procedures.

Where a specific standard applies, the required drying conditions and test method must be followed.

KERN DIS for Wastewater Treatment and Environmental Laboratories

Dry Matter Determination in Sludge and Residues

In wastewater treatment, dry matter content is an important parameter for evaluating sludge dewatering processes.

The KERN DIS series may be used for compatible environmental samples including:

• Wastewater sludge

• Dewatered sludge

• Filter cakes

• Sediments

• Soil samples

• Suitable organic residues

The graphical drying curve can provide useful information when developing or evaluating appropriate drying conditions.

For standardized environmental testing, the applicable method requirements must be observed.

Additional Industrial Applications

Chemical Industry

Loss-on-drying determination of compatible powders, granules and chemical raw materials.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Testing of appropriate materials using qualified or validated procedures where required.

Cosmetics Manufacturing

Moisture analysis of suitable raw materials and intermediate products.

Agriculture

Moisture testing of cereals, animal feed and plant-based raw materials.

Biomass and Energy

Investigation of loss on drying in suitable biomass samples and fuels.

Research and Development

Study of drying behavior and comparison of different temperature profiles.

Moisture Content, Dry Matter and ATRO Values

Understanding Different Measurement Results

The KERN DIS series supports several result display formats.

For example, a sample containing 20% moisture on a wet basis has 80% dry matter.

The corresponding ATRO value is:

ATRO (%) = (Mass Loss / Dry Mass) × 100

Therefore:

ATRO = (20 / 80) × 100 = 25%

These calculation conventions must be distinguished when comparing results.

KERN DIS vs. DBS vs. DLB vs. DAB – Which Moisture Analyzer Should You Choose?

KERN DAB – Versatile Moisture Analyzers for Routine Testing

The KERN DAB series offers different models with halogen or infrared heating.

It is particularly suitable for users seeking practical solutions for recurring moisture measurements.

KERN DLB – High Weighing Resolution and Intuitive Operation

The KERN DLB series offers two weighing performance classes.

The DLB 60-4A provides 0.1 mg readability.

The DLB 160-3A offers a maximum weighing capacity of 160 g.

KERN DBS – Advanced Drying Method Management

The KERN DBS 60-3 combines Single-Cell weighing technology with four drying profiles and a maximum temperature of 200 °C.

It provides storage for 10 drying programs and 100 measurement results.

KERN DIS – Real-Time Drying Curves and High-Temperature Models

The KERN DIS series stands out through:

• Real-time graphical drying curve

• Four model configurations

• 0.1 mg or 1 mg readability

• Electromagnetic force compensation

• Maximum temperatures of 175 °C or 250 °C

• Storage for up to 1,000 measurement results

• Up to 1,000 programmable sample descriptions

• Password protection and USB connectivity

The KERN DIS series is particularly attractive when high weighing resolution, real-time process monitoring and extensive measurement documentation are important selection criteria.

Adjustment, Calibration and Temperature Verification

Maintaining Reliable Measurement Performance

The KERN DIS series supports adjustment using a suitable external calibration weight.

KERN also offers corresponding calibration and testing services.

An optional temperature calibration set is available for checking the heating temperature.

An appropriate quality assurance program may include:

• Regular weighing performance checks

• Balance adjustment when required

• Heating temperature verification

• Repeatability testing

• Suitable reference materials

• Cleaning and maintenance

• Documentation of verification intervals

Mass calibration and heating temperature verification are separate procedures.

Practical Recommendations for Repeatable Moisture Analysis

Use Representative Samples

The sample should accurately reflect the properties of the material being tested.

Distribute the Material Evenly

A uniform layer supports consistent heating.

Select the Appropriate Drying Temperature

The temperature must be compatible with the sample's thermal stability.

Choose the Correct Drying Profile

Standard, Rapid, Gentle or Step drying should be selected according to the material's properties.

Monitor the Drying Curve

The graphical real-time display can provide useful information for method development.

Define an Appropriate Switch-Off Criterion

Automatic, timed or manual termination should correspond to the analytical procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions About KERN DIS Moisture Analyzers

Which models are included in the KERN DIS series?

The series comprises DIS 50-4, DIS 100-3, DIS 50-4HT and DIS 100-3HT.

What is the difference between DIS 50-4 and DIS 100-3?

The DIS 50-4 offers a 50 g weighing capacity and 0.0001 g readability. The DIS 100-3 provides a 120 g capacity and 0.001 g readability.

What does HT mean in KERN DIS?

HT identifies the high-temperature versions, which provide drying temperatures up to 250 °C.

Which KERN DIS model is suitable for plastic pellets?

KERN particularly highlights the DIS 50-4 for moisture analysis of suitable plastic granules.

Which models offer 0.1 mg readability?

The DIS 50-4 and DIS 50-4HT.

Which models have a 120 g weighing capacity?

The DIS 100-3 and DIS 100-3HT.

Which heating technology is used?

The series uses a 400 W halogen quartz-glass heating system.

Which drying profiles are available?

Standard, Rapid, Gentle and Step drying.

Can the drying process be displayed graphically?

Yes. The drying curve can be displayed in real time during measurement.

How many measurement results can be stored?

Up to 1,000 results.

Can samples be individually identified?

Yes. Up to 1,000 sample descriptions can be programmed.

Do the instruments provide password protection?

Yes. Stored settings and data can be protected by a password function.

Can results be transferred to a computer?

Yes. The instruments include a USB interface. Compatibility with specific software should be verified.

Can wastewater sludge be analyzed?

Yes, provided the sample and analytical method are suitable for thermogravimetric determination.

Is temperature calibration possible?

KERN offers an optional temperature calibration set and corresponding calibration services.

What electrical supply is required?

The documented models are specified for 230 V AC at 50 Hz. Electrical compatibility must be confirmed before installation.

What is included in the delivery?

KERN specifies 50 sample pans and a protective working cover among the included accessories.

Buy KERN DIS Moisture Analyzers at SMI

At SMI, laboratories, research institutions and industrial quality assurance departments can explore the professional KERN DIS moisture analyzer series.

With four different models, the range allows users to select the appropriate combination of weighing resolution, sample capacity and drying temperature.

The KERN DIS 50-4 is particularly interesting for high-resolution residual moisture testing, including suitable plastic granule applications.

The KERN DIS 100-3 provides a larger weighing capacity for versatile laboratory testing.

The DIS 50-4HT and DIS 100-3HT extend the range with drying temperatures up to 250 °C.

The real-time graphical drying curve, four drying profiles and extensive result memory support professional analytical workflows.

Discover the KERN DIS moisture analyzers at SMI and choose the appropriate instrument for high-resolution moisture testing, industrial quality assurance and demanding laboratory applications.