How does NIR work

Near Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy uses light transmission and absorption to measure various constituents in a sample material such as: moisture, starch, protein, fat and oils. NIR can be used to detect these specific elements, understand the concentration of the elements and/or to detect changes in the overall composition. Because NIR penetrates deeper into bulk material than mid-infrared, it provides better, more reliable measurement on a production line.

NIR works by shining broad-spectrum light on a material, typically from 780nm to 2500nm. The wavelengths that are illuminated on the material are measured by examining the ratio between 2 frequencies, one reference and one at the resonant frequency. From these two measurements, calculations are made that provide data based on the absorption and scattering of the wavelengths caused by the sample.

Readiness and Reliability

In a typical installation, the NIR sensor is mounted over a conveying system (belt, screw, vibratory, pneumatic, etc.) about 7-15 inches above the product to be measured. The sensor shines light onto the surface of the product, and after the light hits the product, the calculations to measure the necessary constituents are done. Filters and cell detectors tailored and optimized for your specific application needs are used to zero in on the exact constituent being measured to provide the best results possible.

The readiness and reliability of this data helps you minimize product loss, eliminate the need for unnecessary downtime, and increases your operation’s efficiency, leading to better margins and increased profits.