Using moisture metersMany different makes of portable grain moisture meters are available. Some work on change in resistance and others work on change in capacitance. When selecting a meter, make sure it is suitable for paddy and polished rice and other crops being grown. The price of commercial meters ranges from USD 250 to 750. Before using a meter, consult the manual to find out the correct procedure for measurement. IRRI moisture meterThe IRRI low-cost moisture meter is a decision making tool for postharvest operations that costs half of the price of a more advanced moisture tester, and is not intended for trade. Fact sheet: Mark III - IRRI Moisture Meter Resistance-type moisture metersQuick moisture testers are most suitable for use in the field and for trade because they give a very fast result and they are reasonably accurate within a 1% range. Although the resistance type moisture meters are not too expensive, farmers still can not afford them. To operate a quick moisture meter follow the basic steps outlined below. This is the procedure for using the Kett Rice Tester. Guidelines for using a resistance type moisture meter:
Make sure that you turn the knob all the way as described in the manual. If the knob is not turned far enough you will get a wrong reading. IRRI does not endorse any particular brand or type of moisture meters. However, it would be wise to make inquiries about different brands as price is not always a good indicator for device quality and accuracy. For accurate measurements, make sure that you take a representative sample across the field and make at least 3 measurements at each location to get a good average value. |