MoistTech unveils IR3000-F NIR sensors to boost moisture control, efficiency

USA – MoistTech Corp. will showcase its IR3000-F Series near-infrared (NIR) moisture sensors at Petfood Forum 2026, taking place from April 27–29 in Kansas City, highlighting advancements in real-time process control for pet food manufacturers.

The company’s latest sensor technology is designed to provide continuous, non-contact moisture measurement across production lines, enabling processors to maintain tighter control over product quality and operational efficiency.

Moisture content remains a critical parameter in pet food manufacturing, directly affecting the balance of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, as well as overall product stability.

In kibble production, in particular, maintaining precise moisture levels is essential for ensuring uniformity, shelf life and food safety.

By delivering real-time data, the IR3000-F allows operators to make immediate process adjustments, reducing variability, minimizing waste and improving throughput.

The sensors are engineered to deliver accurate, repeatable readings with minimal maintenance requirements.

Pre-calibrated using customer-specific samples, the system eliminates the need for frequent recalibration, one of the key limitations of traditional moisture measurement methods.

Each unit can store up to 50 product calibrations, allowing manufacturers to monitor multiple recipes and product formats using a single device.

According to MoistTech, the IR3000-F’s performance is unaffected by common production variables such as product height, colour, ambient temperature or lighting conditions.

Integrated software further compensates for external factors, including conveyor surfaces, inert materials and small product gaps, ensuring consistent and reliable measurement accuracy.

The sensor is housed in a robust cast aluminium enclosure designed for efficient heat dissipation, enabling stable operation even in high-temperature environments typical of drying, roasting and frying processes.

Beyond quality assurance, the IR3000-F supports broader operational efficiency. By enabling precise moisture control, the system helps optimize the performance of dryers, ovens, roasters and fryers, reducing the risk of over-drying while lowering energy consumption.

This translates into measurable cost savings without compromising product integrity.

Its non-contact design also minimizes contamination risks and allows seamless integration into existing production lines without interrupting operations, an important advantage for manufacturers seeking to upgrade systems without costly downtime.

The launch comes as the pet food industry accelerates investment in automation and advanced quality control technologies.

As producers scale operations and diversify product portfolios, solutions that enhance consistency, reduce downtime and improve energy efficiency are becoming increasingly vital to maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.

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