AQUALAB 3 – High-performance water activity analyser for fast and accurate quality control
The AQUALAB 3 is a cutting-edge technological solution designed for professionals in the food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries who need rigorous control of the moisture and stability of their products. With its ability to measure water activity (aw) and total moisture in seconds, it offers a new dimension in quality management and real-time decision-making.
This device works using cooled mirror sensors and a capacitive hygrometer, enabling it to provide measurements with an accuracy of ±0.005 aw. The system is controlled via an intuitive iPad interface using the SKALA Mobile app, which centralises all operations, from product configuration to reading measurements. All data is stored and analysed in the cloud via SKALA Control, ensuring complete traceability of results and the ability to view them at any time.
The AQUALAB 3 is particularly suited to demanding industrial environments where speed, accuracy and reliability are essential. It detects and anticipates texture, preservation and microbial development issues by providing a complete picture of the hygroscopic state of products. Users can configure alert thresholds, check batch compliance and automate monitoring reports.
The system also stands out for its modularity: it can be connected to several NEXUS units, allowing for easy expansion according to production needs. Installation is simple, with a USB connection between the AQUALAB 3 and the NEXUS station, and wireless or Ethernet communication with the iPad.
The " One-Minute Water Activity Mode " (available with subscription) provides a reliable reading in just 60 seconds after the first three learning measurements, optimising test time without compromising accuracy. Built-in isotherm models also allow total humidity to be calculated from water activity, and linear offset adjustment is possible to align results with reference methods.
The AQUALAB 3 is designed to minimise interruptions: the sensor block can be quickly replaced without returning to the factory, and the sample drawer can be removed for easy cleaning. Its robust polycarbonate-ABS design, weight of 5 kg and compact dimensions make it a stable instrument that is easy to integrate into any type of laboratory or production line.