The 5 Top-Rated Portable Grain and Hay Moisture Meters
The moisture content within hay, straw, grains, pulses, and oilseeds is an essential consideration for growers, buyers, and processors in the agricultural industry. Moisture content and quality are inextricably linked. High moisture, especially when paired with high temperatures, increases the risk of mould, mycotoxins, and insect infestation.
Instrument Choice Scientists have compiled a list of the five top-rated portable grain and hay moisture meters, highlighting their key specifications and differentiating features so that you can find the best meter for your needs.
About Moisture Content in Hay and Grains
The use of moisture meters aids in the production or purchase of safe, nutritionally dense, shelf-stable, and valuable products. Such instruments also help prevent stock losses by way of fungal decay or rot.
Figure 1 (below) provides an example of how moisture content, coupled with temperature, will affect stored grain.
Figure 1 The effects of temperature and moisture on stored grain (Source: CSIRO Ecosystems Sciences)
Selecting a Moisture Meter
Here are the essential considerations when searching for a grain or hay moisture meter.
- Accuracy: Ensure the listed accuracy level is adequate for your intended use.
- Temperature: As product temperature has a considerable impact on grain and hay quality, top-quality readers should display or have the ability to obtain sample temperature.
- Temperature Compensation: Meters with automatic temperature compensation, either counteract or correct undesirable temperature influences.
- Intended Use: Do you want to measure whole grain or crushed? bailed, or loose hay? Ensure you select the correct meter for your application(s).
- Robust: Portable agricultural moisture measuring instruments must be durable to withstand harsh environments and guarantee you can measure grain and hay moisture for years to come.
The Top-Rated Portable Grain and Hay Moisture Meters
The Instrument Choice Scientists have assembled a list of the top-rated portable grain and hay moisture meters from our extensive range. These are the measuring capability and specifications.
Grain
1. AGRETO GFM+ Grain Moisture Meter
Product Code: IC-FA08125-PLUS
The IC-FA08125-PLUS is a portable device suitable for quickly determining the moisture content in over 41 crop types. Tough, portable, and easy to use; this device will help you make decisions about harvest times and storage life.
Specifications
Moisture Range: 5 to 40 % (depending on the crop type)
Moisture Accuracy: ±0.5%
Intended Use: Measures whole grains
Temperature Measurement Range: 1°C to 49°C (Best results 4°C to 43°C)
Temperature Compensation: Automatic
Total Crops/Grains Measured: 42 varieties of grain
Grain
2. Grain Moisture Meter - "The Crusher"
Product Code: IC-Wile-78
The IC-Wile-78 is a popular tool for growers, buyers, and purchasers of grains. The instrument features a handheld grain moisture meter that includes a built-in manual grinder. The ergonomically designed grinder cap has specially coated teeth that aid grinding and provide a longer life for the mechanism. The meter is light, ultra-portable, and produces accurate grain moisture results in less than 20 seconds.
Specifications
Moisture Range: 3 to 40% (Depending on the grain or seed)
Moisture Accuracy: ±0.5% under normal conditions
Intended Use: Measures crushed grain
Temperature Measurement Range:5- 50 °C
Temperature Compensation: Automatic
Total Crops/Grains Measured: 20 country-specific grains and seeds.
Grain
3. Grain Moisture Meter for Harvesting, Drying and Storing
Product Code: Wile-65
Measurement with the Wile-65 is fast and straightforward. You operate the meter using only two buttons, and the display guides you intuitively while you perform measurements. The screen shows the grain type and helps you adjust your settings before analysis. A quick reference guide is located on the side of the meter to remind you of the steps required to measure your grain.
Specifications
Moisture Range: Grain 8 to 35%, Oil Seeds 5 to 25%
Moisture Accuracy: 0.5% moisture at storage condition
Intended Use: Measures whole grain
Temperature Measurement Range:0- 60°C
Temperature Compensation: Automatic
Total Crops/Grains Measured: Pre-programmed with 16 Australian Grains
Hay
4. Hfm II Hay Moisture Meter / Straw Moisture Meter 50Cm
Product Code: AGFH0010
The AGFH0010 hay and straw moisture meter is a professional measuring instrument designed for determining moisture levels and the temperature of baled hay and straw. Consisting of a 50cm stainless steel probe and a durable LCD screen covered in a dustproof and spray waterproof casing, the hay moisture meter is robust and built to last for years, safeguarding your feed quality during harvesting or drying.
Specifications
Moisture Range: 9-50%
Moisture Accuracy:±0.8% at low moisture levels
Intended Use: Measures baled hay and straw
Temperature Measurement Range: -10 to 100°c
Temperature Compensation: None
Toal Crops/Grains Measured: Baled hay and straw
Hay
5. Humimeter FL2 Hay and straw moisture meter
Product Code: IC-humimeterFL2
The IC-humimeterFL2 Hay and Straw Moisture Meter is well suited for most hay and straw moisture measuring applications. The device is precise, reliable, and brimming with features that enhance usability. Features and benefits include;
- Easy measurement of both loose and bailed hay
- Unique calibration function allowing you to program moisture calibration curves for additional products
- Robust 0.6-metre stainless steel probe.
The user-friendly features make this meter well suited for most hay and straw moisture measuring applications.
Specifications
Moisture Range: 8% to 60% water content (depending on the material).
Moisture Accuracy: ±0.8%
Intended Use: Measures bailed and loose hay and straw. Compression plate for loose hay included.
Temperature Measurement Range: -20°C to +120°C
Temperature Compensation: Automatic
Toal Crops/Grains Measured: 8 pre-programmed product types and two available calibration curves for additional products.
Conclusion
If you are a crop farmer, buyer, or processor, you know that the moisture levels and product quality go hand-in-hand. A moisture meter is an affordable and straightforward way to monitor product quality and reduce stock loss.
Our scientists’ review of the top-rated portable grain and hay moisture meters will help with your selection process, but if you are unsure or need a hand finding the best moisture meter for your application, speak with an Instrument Choice Scientist! We're here to help!
Call 1300 737 871 or email [email protected].
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