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Protimeter Speedy

March 2014

Moisture Test Procedure for Standard Size Speedy

A standard size speedy is shown in the photograph to the left. The moisture test

procedure is simple to follow and takes a just few minutes for most materials.

However, to ensure accurate and consistent results the procedure should be

followed precisely. To test your sample, refer to the photographs below and

complete the following steps:

1.

Clean the Speedy vessel: Prior to using the Speedy tester, ensure that the inside of the Speedy cap and vessel are empty

and clean. Use the bristle brush to remove any residues from previous tests.

2.

Select and prepare the sample: Ensure that the sample to be weighed and placed in the Speedy is representative of the

material that is under investigation. Some materials, such as free-flowing powders and sands, need no preparation whereas

others may need to be ground prior to testing. See Table 4 on page 6 for further information.

3.

Weigh the sample: Place the empty measuring beaker on the electronic scale and zero the scale (refer to the electronic

scale user instructions for further details). Add small amounts of material from the sample until the correct sample weight

is reached. The sample weight is determined by the size and measurement range of the Speedy that is being used, as listed

in Table 2 below.

4.

Add the sample to the Speedy vessel: Pour the sample into the chamber of the Speedy vessel.

5.

Add the reagent to the Speedy cap: Using the metal scoop, add a minimum of two full scoops of calcium carbide

reagent to the Speedy cap cavity.

6.

Seal the Speedy: Hold the Speedy horizontally and position the cap as shown. Then swing the stirrup into position and

tighten the top screw to seal.

7.

Mix the sample with the reagent: Hold the Speedy vertically with the pressure gauge facing the ground and shake

vigorously for 5 seconds. Rotate the Speedy through 180° so that the pressure gauge faces the sky, tap the sides of the

Speedy to ensure the sample falls into the cap cavity and prop or hold the Speedy in this position for 1-2 minutes.

8.

Take the reading: Hold the Speedy horizontally and at eye level and take the moisture content reading directly from the

pressure gauge.

9.

Release the pressure: Hold the Speedy vertically with the pressure gauge facing the ground. Locate the arrow on the

flange of the cap and point this away from yourself and other people in your vicinity. Unscrew the top screw slowly to

vent the gas that may have been generated within the Speedy.

10. Remove the sample and reagent: Tip the contents of the Speedy directly into a clean and dry open container and

dispose of in accordance with Section 13 of the Calcium Carbide Material Safety Data Sheet.

11. Clean the Speedy: Clean the Speedy vessel, cap and measuring beaker in preparation for the next moisture measurement.

Table 2: Sample Weights - Standard Vessel

Model

Vessel Size

Sample Wt. (g)

S2000C

Standard

0-10

12

S2000D

Standard

0-20

6

S8

S6

S9

S5

S4

S3

S1