Definition. Comparison table: penetration depth, accuracy, drift, atmosphere.
NIR (near-infrared) measures only the surface (≤ 0.5 mm). Fast, cheap, but sensitive to color, dust, and drifts at high temperatures.
Capacitive measures to 1–5 mm depth. Sensitive to material variation and atmosphere, drifts over time.
Microwave (2-PMR) measures the entire material volume. Density-independent, long-term stable, insensitive to dust and atmosphere.
Recommendation: For the wood-based panel industry and bulk goods, microwave is the superior method.
FAQ
When is NIR still better? +
When surface moisture alone matters and the material is homogeneous. Rarely the case in production.
Practical tip
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Three data points — material, temperature, position — are enough for a first sensor recommendation.
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