Kern DAB 200-2 Halogen Moisture Analyser, 200 g / 0.01 g

The Kern DAB 200-2 moisture analyser operates using a halogen quartz glass heating element and covers a weighing range of up to 200 grams, with a readability of 0.01 grams or 0.05 per cent moisture. The measuring principle is thermogravimetric: the built-in precision balance continuously records the sample weight during drying; the instrument calculates the moisture content from the weight loss and displays the drying curve in real time on the backlit graphic display. Those who regularly test larger quantities, such as grain, animal feed or sewage sludge, will benefit from the higher capacity compared with the smaller sister model, the DAB 100-3.

Halogen quartz glass heating element for short drying times

A 400-watt halogen quartz glass heating element is housed in the lid. The drying temperature can be set in 1-degree increments from 40 to 199 degrees Celsius; the stabilisation time until the start of the measurement is 3 seconds. There are three drying programmes to choose from: standard drying, fast drying and gentle drying. The unit can be switched off either automatically as soon as the weight of the sample stops changing, by a timer after a set duration, or manually at the touch of a button.

Halogen or infrared: choosing the right heating technology

The DAB 200-2 is the halogen version of the DAB series. In addition, LT Laborhandel stocks the Kern DAB 200-2IR (item no. lt-23265), an identical model featuring infrared heating. The main difference lies in the maximum achievable drying temperature: for the infrared version, the adjustable range ends at 160 degrees Celsius, whilst for the halogen version described here, it ends at 199 degrees Celsius. For those who need samples to dry safely even at higher temperatures, such as tough or coarse-grained materials, the DAB 200-2 is the right choice. Those who work predominantly at moderate temperatures or prefer a more even, gentler application of heat will find the DAB 200-2IR to be the alternative from the same series. The weighing range, readability and operating concept are identical for both models; the only difference lies in the heating technology and the maximum possible temperature. The decision can be made regardless of capacity requirements: even those who need the smaller DAB 100-3 will find the same choice between halogen and infrared with the DAB 100-3IR (item no. lt-23263).

Graphic display and memory functions

The backlit graphic display, with 14-millimetre-high digits, shows the current moisture content and the drying curve whilst the measurement is in progress. Up to 15 complete drying programmes can be stored in the unit, along with memory slots for 5 measurement results and 5 sample names. The device can be connected to a printer or PC via the RS-232 serial interface to document measurement values.

Weighing technology and accuracy

The internal balance is designed as a single-range balance with a strain gauge system, with a resolution of 20,000 parts per full scale. Reproducibility and linearity are 0.01 grammes and ± 0.03 grammes respectively. For a measurement uncertainty of 0.1 per cent at k=2, Kern specifies a minimum sample weight of 20 grams; this is consistent with the moisture content range of 20 to 100 per cent of the sample for which this model is designed. The sample dishes have a diameter of 92 millimetres and rest on an aluminium weighing plate; the housing is made of cast aluminium and plastic.

Typical applications

The DAB 200-2 moisture analyser is used wherever the moisture content needs to be determined quickly and without time-consuming sample preparation, for example in the goods-in department of a grain mill or during routine checks of raw materials prior to further processing. The wide weighing range also makes the instrument suitable for bulky or irregularly shaped samples, without the need for time-consuming pre-weighing or division.

• Food production and the food industry
• Water management
• Energy and raw materials industry
• Agriculture

Selection guide: DAB 100-3 or DAB 200-2

If you are undecided between the two halogen models, the main factors to consider are the weighing range and readability. The table compares the DAB 200-2 and DAB 100-3 side by side, using the manufacturer’s specifications.

For small, high-value or particularly inhomogeneous samples, where every tenth of a milligram counts, the DAB 100-3 (item no. lt-21715) is the more accurate choice. For larger or heavier samples, where absolute capacity is more important than the last decimal place, the DAB 200-2 remains the more practical option. Both models share the same housing, operating concept and interface, meaning that switching between the two sizes in day-to-day laboratory work does not require any changes to workflows.

Operating conditions, materials and warranty

The DAB 200-2 is designed for operation at ambient temperatures of 5 to 40 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 5 to 80 per cent. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the device contains no substances prohibited under REACH. Kern provides a 36-month manufacturer’s warranty.

Frequently asked questions about the DAB 200-2

What distinguishes the DAB 200-2 from the DAB 100-3?

The DAB 200-2 covers a wider weighing range up to 200 grams, with a readability of 0.01 grams. The DAB 100-3 (item no. lt-21715) offers finer measurement, down to 0.001 grammes, with a weighing range of up to 110 grammes. For small, high-precision samples, the DAB 100-3 is the more accurate choice.

What is the difference between the halogen and infrared versions?

Both operate on the same thermogravimetric principle. The difference lies in the maximum drying temperature: The halogen version, the DAB 200-2, reaches up to 199 degrees Celsius, whilst the identically constructed infrared version, the DAB 200-2IR (Art. lt-23265), reaches up to 160 degrees Celsius.

What is the minimum sample size required?

For a measurement uncertainty of 0.1 per cent at k=2, Kern specifies a minimum sample weight of 20 grams.

Can the instrument be connected to a printer or PC?

Yes, measurement reports can be transferred to a printer or computer via the RS-232 serial interface.

What drying programmes are available?

Standard drying, fast drying and gentle drying, with a choice of automatic, time-controlled or manual switch-off.

How many sample dishes are included in the Scope of delivery?

The box contains 50 aluminium sample dishes, each with a diameter of 92 millimetres.

What power supply does the DAB 200-2 require?

Power is supplied via a permanently fitted mains adaptor, rated for 230 volts AC and 50 hertz.

Technical details

Scope of delivery

• DAB 200-2 moisture analyser
• 50 sample dishes (aluminium)
• Mains adaptor with power cable
• User manual (multilingual)

Individual requirements and procurement service

The 50 sample dishes supplied are sufficient for the first series of measurements; however, it is advisable to keep a stock of spare dishes for day-to-day use. The internal balance should be checked regularly using an external test weight. LT Laborhandel’s procurement service provides support with accessories, spare parts and bespoke enquiries relating to Kern moisture analysers.