agraTronix MT-PRO Grain Moisture Tester Instruction Manual

agraTronix MT-PRO Grain Moisture Tester

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: MT-PRO Grain Moisture Tester
• Language: English
• Document Number: DOCU-M0112 07-11

Product Usage Instructions

• Ensure the test cell and grain are free of condensation or surface moisture to avoid inaccurate readings. Hot or cool grain can pick up moisture, affecting results. The pressure cap can squeeze moisture from high-moisture grains.
• For accurate readings, take three successive readings of the total sample and average the results. Empty and refill the tester with new grain between each test.
• Grain sample exposure to different environments can change its moisture content rapidly. Store samples in a closed, air-tight container if testing is delayed.

Operational Messages

• SYSTEM BATTERY LOW: Replace the system battery
• MOISTURE BELOW LIMIT: Moisture below acceptable level
• MOISTURE ABOVE LIMIT: Moisture exceeds acceptable level
• ERROR (—): Electronic Failure. Contact the Manufacturer for assistance.

Preheating Procedure

1. Remove cap (A) and ensure test cell (B) is clean and empty.
2. Press the ON-OFF button (C) to power on the tester. The display (D) will show instructions for preheating.

FAQ

• Q: What should I do if I encounter an ERROR message on the tester?
• A: If you see an ERROR message, contact the Manufacturer for assistance in resolving the issue.

Introduction

• THANK YOU for purchasing an AgraTronix product.

• READ THIS MANUAL carefully to learn how to operate and service your equipment correctly. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage.

• THIS MANUAL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED a permanent part of this equipment and should remain with the unit when you sell it.

• RECORD SERIAL NUMBERS in the warranty section located on page 20-1. Accurately record all the numbers. Your dealer needs these numbers when you need service or parts. If this manual is kept with the equipment, also file the serial numbers in a secure

• place away from the unit.

• WARRANTY is provided through AgraTronix for customers who operate and maintain their equipment as described in this manual. The warranty is explained in the warranty section located on page 20-1.

• This warranty provides you the assurance that AgraTronix will back
  its products where defects appear within the warranty period. In some circumstances, AgraTronix provides field improvements, often without charge to the customer, even if the product is out of warranty. Should the equipment be abused or modified to change specifications, the warranty will become void and field improvements may be denied.

• If you do not understand any part of this manual and need assistance, contact AgraTronix Customer Service at 1-800-821-9542.

• All information, illustrations and specifications in this manual are based on the latest information available at the time of publication. The right is reserved to make changes at any time without notice.

All information, illustrations and specifications in this manual are based on the latest information available at the time of publication. The right is reserved to make changes at any time without notice.

Operation

OPERATING CONDITIONS
Test cell and grain MUST be free of any condensation or surface moisture. Moisture on grain or in test cell will cause high readings.
Very hot or cool grain will pick up moisture when it warms or cools. The pressure cap of the tester can squeeze moisture from high-moisture grains, such as corn, into the bottom of the test cell.
Because grains are irregularly shaped and may not always pack the same way in the test cell, minor variations in readings may occur. To enhance accuracy, always take three (3) successive readings of the total sample being tested and average the results. Empty and refill the tester with new grain from the sample between each test.
The tester is most accurate when grain and tester are between 60˚F
(16˚C) and 90˚F (32˚C). The unit will, however, operate at temperatures between 33˚F (1˚C) and 120˚F (49˚C). For best results, grain temperature should not be below 40˚F (4˚C) or above 110˚F (43˚C). If the grain temperature is 20˚F (11˚C) more or less than the temperature of the unit, preheat the tester per instructions on pages 05-3. Condensation on the grain or test cell is best avoided by having the tester and grain at about the sample temperature.
The environment to which a grain sample is exposed can appreciably change its moisture content. Exposed to the open air, grain can gain or lose 1% to 2% of indicated moisture in only a few minutes. If a sample is to be held for even a short time before being tested, it should be placed into a tightly closed, air-tight container, such as a re-closable bag or jar.
OPERATIONAL MESSAGES

Symbol

• SYSTEM BATTERY LOW
• MOISTURE BELOW LIMIT
• MOISTURE ABOVE LIMIT
• ERROR (—)

Definition

• System battery needs replacing
• Moisture is below limit
• Moisture is above limit
• Electronic Failure

NOTE: Contact the Manufacturer if an ERROR message occurs.

MOISTURE LIMIT GUIDELINES – DISPLAY READING

SEE INSERT

OPERATING PROCEDURE – PREHEATING
IMPORTANT: If the temperature of the grain sample is 20˚F (11˚C) more or less than the temperature of the unit, preheat the tester and test as follows:
PREHEATING PROCEDURE

1. Remove cap (A) and inspect test cell (B) to be sure that it is clean and empty.
2. Press the ON-OFF button (C) to turn on the tester. The display (D) will show ALWAYS AVERAGE 3 TESTS for approximately 7 seconds, then will show ALFALFA (initial operation) or the name of the last grain tested.
3. When the grain to be tested has been selected using the SELECT arrows (E), fill the test cell (B) even to the top of the cell with the sample to be tested.
4. Replace cap loosely. DO NOT TIGHTEN.
5. After 30 seconds, empty test cell and immediately refill with fresh grain.
6. Replace cap (A) and tighten until pressure-indicator screw (F) is flush with the top of cap (A). (Use “finger-flush” test as illustrated)
7. Immediately press the TEST button (G). The words TESTING will be displayed for about 10 seconds, while the tester compensates for temperature. The moisture % and temperature will then be displayed for about 10 seconds.

• A – Cap
• B – Test Cell
• C – ON-OFF Button
• D – Display
• E – Select Arrows
• F – Pressure-Indicator Screw G – Test Button

OPERATING PROCEDURE – NORMAL OPERATION

1. Remove cap (A) and inspect test cell (B) to be sure that it is clean and empty.
2. Press the ON-OFF button (C) to turn on the tester. The display (D) will show ALWAYS AVERAGE 3 TESTS for approximately 7 seconds, then will show ALFALFA (initial operation) or the name of the last grain tested.
3. When the grain to be tested has been selected using the SELECT arrows (E), fill the test cell (B) even to the top of the cell with the sample to be tested.
4. (For Initial Test Only) Before tightening the pressure cap, turn on the tester and allow tester to warm up for 30 seconds before attempting the first test.
5. Replace cap (A) and tighten until pressure-indicator screw (F) is flush with the top of cap (A). (Use Finger-flush test as illustrated.)
6. Immediately press the TEST button (G). The words TESTING will be displayed for about 10 seconds, while the tester compensates for temperature. The moisture % and temperature will then be displayed for about 10 seconds.
7. The tester will then return to displaying the name of the last grain tested. Empty the test cell and refill with a fresh sample and test again.

NOTE: Take at least three readings of new grain from the sample collected and average the results.

• A – Cap
• B – Test Cell
• C – ON-OFF Button
• D – Display
• E – Select Arrows
• F – Pressure-Indicator Screw G – Test Button

AVERAGE TEST RESULTS

1. When testing grain, the test result is displayed for about ten seconds. During the period that the test moisture % and temperature is displayed, press the MEMORY button (A). The tester will acknowledge that it has entered the reading into memory, by displaying the current average and then the number of stored readings. Up to 20 readings can be stored in memory. If the maximum number of readings has been reached, the tester will not allow any more readings to be stored.
   NOTE: Averaging is stored for one grain only. When a test for a new grain is performed, existing averaging data for the previous grain is erased when the new grain’s averaging data is taken. Averaging data is retained even if batteries are removed.

2. Press the AVG button (B) to display the average of all results entered for the grain being tested.

3. To clear the averaging, press the AVG button. The current average will be displayed. Then press the CLEAR button (C) and the tester will then display 0.0% (0). This indicates that the averaging has been cleared.

SELECT A NEW GRAIN SCALE OR FUNCTION

1. At start-up, the tester will display, ALWAYS AVERAGE 3 TESTS for approximately 7 seconds, then will display the name of the last grain tested, such as CORN.
2. To select a new grain scale, press either the up or down arrow on the SELECT button (A) to index forward or backward through the grain (function) menu. The grains are listed in alphabetical order followed by other tester functions.

NOTE: To use other functions included with the tester, push the SELECT button (A) up or down to get the desired function. Push the TEST button (B) to perform that function.

SELECT A DIFFERENT LANGUAGE

1. At start-up, the tester will always display the name of the last grain tested in the current language selected. (English is the default language from the factory.)
2. To select a new language, press either the up or down arrow on the SELECT button (A) to index forward or backward through the grain (function) menu until the word LANGUAGE is displayed.
3. When LANGUAGE is displayed, press the TEST button (B). The current language selected will be displayed. Press either the up or down arrow on the SELECT button (A) to index forward or backward through the grain language menu until your choice of language is displayed. The seven (7) languages (as displayed) are ENGLISH, SPANISH, GERMAN, FRENCH, ITALIAN, SWEDISH and PORTUGUESE.
4. Press the TEST button (B) again to return to the main grain menu, which will now be displayed in the new language.

CALIBRATION MODES
This tester includes two different Calibration Modes. Please read the description below to determine which calibration mode you wish to use.

1. Simple Calibration Mode: In Simple Calibration Mode if you apply an offset to a given grain the tester will simply apply that offset to the displayed moisture regardless of the moisture content or range. This means there is just a single offset that will be applied to the grain. The calibration offset can also be adjusted at any time without having to take a valid test. This is the default mode for the tester. Example: You have tested two grain samples, one at 10%, and the other at 20%. You have retested the 20% grain and applied a 2% offset. If you now retest the two samples the new results are as follows:
   Original Moisture display with user offset applied
   20% 22%
   10% 12%

2. Advanced Calibration Mode: In Advanced Calibration Mode you must first take a valid test before you can adjust the offset for the tested grain. Once a test is taken and the offset is made, the adjustment will only be applied to the moisture range of the grain just tested. So if you are making large adjustments at higher moisture levels, the offset that you apply will not affect the lower moisture of the same grain. This means that multiple tests can be taken for a grain at different moisture ranges and different offsets can be applied to each of the ranges. Example: You have tested two grain samples, one at 10%, and the other at 20%. You have retested the 20% grain and applied a 2% offset. If you now retest the two samples the new results are as follows:
   Original Moisture display with user offset applied
   20% 22%
   10% 10%

NOTE: Regardless of the mode selected (Simple or Advanced) each grain can still be individually adjusted.

SELECT A DIFFERENT CALIBRATION MODE

1. Calibration mode ’SIMPLE’ is the default mode from the factory.
2. To select a new calibration mode, press either the up or down arrow on the SELECT button (A) to index forward or backward through the grain (function) menu until the phrase CALIBRATION MODE is displayed.
3. When CALIBRATION MODE is displayed, press the TEST button (B). The current calibration mode selected will be displayed. Press either the up or down arrow on the SELECT button (A) to index forward or backward through the calibration mode menu until your choice of calibration mode is displayed. The only 2 mode options are SIMPLE and ADVANCED.
4. Press TEST button (B) WAIT will be displayed, and then you will be returned to the Calibration Mode menu.
5. If you do not want to change calibration mode simply press the CLEAR button and you will be returned to the Calibration Mode menu.

NOTE: CHANGING CALIBRATION MODES WILL ERASE ALL USER CALIBRATION SETTINGS.

CALIBRATION CONSIDERATION / LIMITS
Typically the moisture tester will be consistent with most elevator testers over a broad range of moisture levels. However, there are some things to consider when thinking about your moisture tester calibration.
NOTE: Graph 1 provided is for illustration purposes only and does not reflect actual test data.

1. Tester Differences : Your moisture tester unit may not match a given elevator tester. None of the testers exactly match the actual weighted moisture of any given grain. There is no national standard for elevator testers. The difference between moisture testers and various USDA-approved elevator testers is not a constant value. A correction at one moisture level may not be valid for a different moisture level. Graph 1 illustrates how the moisture tester might compare to an elevator tester over a broad range of moisture levels. The moisture tester and most elevator testers (shown in the graph by a solid line) will closely match those of the moisture tester (shown by a dashed line) for that range, as illustrated. However, as we get away from mid-range into the high and low moisture levels, differences between the elevator tester and moisture tester not only become greater but may switch from a moisture tester reading higher than the elevator tester to a reading lower than the elevator tester. For example, in Graph 1, the area between B and C represents the mid-range moisture. Moisture tester readings match elevator tester readings in this area with an accuracy of plus or minus 0.5 percent. The area between A and B represents the low moisture range. Moisture tester readings differ more from elevator tester readings and are LOWER than elevator tester readings. The area between C and D represents the high moisture range. Moisture tester readings again differ more from elevator tester readings than they did at mid-range moisture, but now the readings are HIGHER than elevator tester readings.
2. Calibration Requirements: Graph 1 illustrates that moisture tester readings closely match elevator tester readings for mid-range moisture levels. (Graph is for illustration purposes only and does not reflect actual test data.) Calibration changes required for grain in this moisture range will be small, if any. However, if the grain is very dry (Low Moisture Range) or very wet (High Moisture Range), it may be necessary to calibrate your moisture tester unit against the elevator tester using a sample of your grain in both testers. Record the calibration correction required. It will be valid for all testing in that moisture range for that grain.

ADJUST CALIBRATION – SIMPLE OPTION
IMPORTANT: Always obtain three (3) test results from the grain elevator for the sample being compared. Average these three (3) results. Compare this average with the average of three (3) tests by the moisture tester before making any adjustments.

1. Each grain scale can be individually adjusted up to 5.0% by increments of 0.1% to more closely match the results of an elevator tester.
2. First, select the grain to be adjusted.
3. Press CAL Button (A), a tester will now display the current offset applied to the grain.
4. Press the Up Arrow (B) to raise the adjustment amount or press the Down Arrow (C) to lower. The tester will add or subtract up to 5.0% by increments of 0.1% to the calibration offset.
5. After the adjustment amount has been selected, press the CAL Button (A) to return to grain tester mode.

NOTE: Adjustments can NOT be made to factory calibration to produce moisture readings in a tester that shows “BELOW LIMIT” or “ABOVE LIMIT” readings.

IMPORTANT: When using the SIMPLE calibration offset option, the tester will apply calibration offset to the selected grain regardless of moisture range.

ADJUST CALIBRATION – ADVANCED OPTION
IMPORTANT: Always obtain three (3) test results from the grain elevator for the sample being compared. Average these three (3) results. Compare this average with the average of three (3) tests by the moisture tester.

1. Each grain scale can be individually adjusted up to 5.0% by increments of 0.1% to more closely match the results of an elevator tester.

2. First select the grain to be adjusted.

3. Test the grain selected, using the sample you wish to adjust to. Once valid moisture appears, press the CAL button (A).
   NOTE: Calibration of given grain cannot be performed unless a valid moisture test has been performed.

4. Once CAL button (A) is pressed, tester will now display the obtained moisture reading and the current offset applied to that moisture range.

5. Press the UP arrow (B) to raise the adjustment amount or press the DOWN arrow (C) to lower. The tester will add or subtract up to 5.0%by increments of 0.1% to the current moisture range.

6. After the adjustment amount has been selected, press the CAL button (A) to return to grain tester mode.

NOTE: Adjustment can NOT be made to factory calibration to produce moisture readings in a tester that shows “BELOW LIMIT” or “ABOVE LIMIT” readings.

IMPORTANT: This tester incorporates Multi-Point Calibration for each grain. Therefore, once a valid test is taken and an adjustment is made, the adjustment will only affect the moisture range of the sample tested.

CLEAR CALIBRATION – SIMPLE OPTION

1. Select grain to clear.
2. Press CAL button (A), tester will then display last calibration that was made.
3. Press CLEAR button (B).
4. Tester will then display 0.0% for both lines if the calibration has been cleared.

NOTE: If you press the CAL button and tester displays 0.0% on both lines, then no calibration has been made for this grain.

CLEAR CALIBRATION – ADVANCED OPTION

1. Select grain to clear.
2. Press CAL Button (A), tester will then display last calibration that was made.
3. Press CLEAR Button (B).
4. Tester will then display 0.0%for both lines if the calibration has been cleared.

NOTE: If you hit the CAL Button and tester displays 0.0% on both lines, then no calibration has been made for this grain.

DISPLAY TEMPERATURE IN THE CELL

1. To display the temperature in the cell, press either the up or down arrow on the SELECT button (A) to index forward or backward through the grain (function) menu until the word TEMPERATURE is displayed.
2. When TEMPERATURE is displayed, press TEST button (B). The current temperature in cell will be displayed in both F˚ and C˚. Temperature will be displayed for a few seconds then will return to the main grain menu.

NOTE: If the tester and grain are different temperatures, the mass of the metal tester will quickly warm or cool the grain. Therefore, the temperature reading is the cell temperature, not necessarily the temperature of the grain before being put in the cell.

TURN ON BACKLIGHT AND TURN OFF TESTER

1. Press LIGHT button (A).
2. Press again to turn off backlight. NOTE: The backlighting feature is designed to improve display visibility in low light conditions. In bright light conditions, the backlighting cannot be seen.
3. To turn off tester, press ON-OFF button (B). Tester will automatically turn itself off 2 minutes after the last button has been pushed.

Troubleshooting

• SYMPTOM A: Unit does not power up or loses power occasionally (or backlighting does not operate.)
• SOLUTION 1: Press ON-OFF button for shorter time. Do NOT hold button down.
• SOLUTION 2: Check batteries for 0% or higher. Replace as necessary.
• SOLUTION 3: Battery contacts may be making poor contact. Remove batteries and pull metal contacts up from bottom of compartment and above height of plastic knob using needle-nose pliers. See illustration below.
• SYMPTOM B: Unit is inaccurate.
• SOLUTION 1: Temperature of the grain and unit may be more than 20˚F (11˚C) different. Follow preheat procedure.
• SOLUTION 2: If grain is at an extreme tempera- ture, let grain settle to reach room temperature. Retest grain.
• SOLUTION 3: Grain and/or test cell may have developed surface moisture from rapid change in temperature of the grain sample. Allow grain and tester to stabilize near room temperature. Inspect for visible moisture on grain and inside test cell. Dry the test cell with a soft cloth or a blow dryer if necessary. Retest grain.
• SOLUTION 4: If the tester displays SYSTEM BATTERY LOW, the test results may be inaccurate. Replace battery.
• SOLUTION 5: Unit may need to be re-calibrated by factory. Return tester to your AgraTronix dealer for repair or replacement or call AgraTronix customer service at 1-800-821-9542.
• SYMPTOM C: Unit reads MOISTURE BELOW LIMIT or MOISTURE ABOVE LIMIT.
• SOLUTION 1: Grain may be too wet or dry to test. Check moisture limit guidelines on page 05-2 of Operating Instructions. NOTE: Limits shown on page 05-2 are only guidelines.
• SYMPTOM D: Unit reads ERROR (—).
• SOLUTION 1: Electronic failure. Return tester to your AgraTronix dealer for repair or replacement or call AgraTronix customer service at 1-800-821-9542.

Service

CHECK BATTERY POWER LEVELS AND REPLACE BATTERIES

1. The tester is powered with two 9 volt alkaline batteries. The left battery (A) powers the backlight circuit. The right battery (B) powers the system.
2. The tester will flash a BATTERY LOW message if system battery needs replacing when unit is turned on. It will not say this for the backlight battery. In the event that the backlight battery is low, the backlight will not work.
3. At any time, select BATTERY from main menu (C) and press TEST (D) to display the percentage available for both batteries.
4. The tester system functions will operate if no backlight battery is installed or if it is low.
5. SYSTEM BATTERY LOW message will be presented when unit is turned ON and the battery is 10% or less usable.

NOTE: If the backlight battery is fresh and the system battery needs replacing, the backlight battery can be used to operate the system by moving it to the system battery location.

• A – Light Battery
• B – System Battery
• C – Main Menu
• D – Test Button
• E – Select Button

CLEAN THE TESTER

1. Remove cap and wipe out inside of the tester with a dry paper towel.

NOTE: Grain may become lodged in threads of cap and should be removed with a small blade.

Warranty

• This product is guaranteed to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for two (2) years from date of retail purchase in USA or Canada and one (1) year overseas. This warranty does not cover the battery or damage resulting from misuse, neglect, accident or improper installation or maintenance. This warranty does not apply to any product which has been repaired or altered outside an authorized factory repair facility.
• The foregoing warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties of merchantability, fitness for purpose and any other type, whether expressed or implied. AgraTronix neither assumes nor authorizes anyone to assume for it any other obligation or liability in connection with its product and will not be liable for consequential damages.

RECORD SERIAL NUMBER

NOTE: The tester serial number is located on the bottom of the unit.
Write your model number, serial number and date of purchase in the space provided below. AgraTronix needs this information when ordering parts and when filing warranty claims.

• Date of Purchase…………………………………………………………
• Serial No…………………………………………………………………….
• Model No……………………………………………………………………

ACCESSORIES

• Carrying Case – Part No. 06053 The MT-PRO’s carrying case is constructed of padded vinyl to protect the tester.
• A zipper bottom and Velcro® sealing flap permit operation with tester in carrying case.
• Velcro is a registered trademark of VELCRO Industries.

CONTACT

Manufacturer’s Contact Information

• Toll-Free 1-800-821-9542
• 1-330-562-2222
• FAX 1-330-562-7403
• www.AgraTronix.com
• 10375 State Route 43
• Streetsboro, OH 44241 USA

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>