Heathrow Scientific Water Activity Meter Features
The Heathrow Scientific 47002 Water Activity Meter is a portable, capacitive-sensor instrument engineered for precise aw measurement across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. With ±0.01 aw accuracy and a full 0.001–1.000 aw range, this compact meter meets the exacting demands of FDA, ISO 18787, and USP compliance programs.
Featuring a detachable sensor design, laboratory technicians can prepare multiple samples simultaneously while testing proceeds — eliminating bottlenecks in high-throughput QA/QC environments. Built-in data logging stores up to 99 measurement sets, and the included Windows-compatible software enables direct data transfer for audit-ready documentation.
Features and Benefits
Designed for four-step measurement simplicity, this aw meter transitions seamlessly from production-line spot checks to extended stability testing without changing instruments. The capacitive humidity sensor measures solids, powders, and liquids with equal precision, while optional calibration salts enable 1- to 3-point calibration tailored to specific sample matrices.
For samples containing volatile compounds such as ethanol or glycols, an optional electrical resistance (alcohol) sensor is available separately. Calibration factors can be saved to a computer and reloaded to the sensor, allowing rapid switching between product types without recalibration from scratch.
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Capacitive Humidity Sensor |
| Measurement Range | 0.001–1.000 aw / 0–80°C |
| Accuracy | ±0.01 aw |
| Resolution | 0.01 aw / 0.1°C |
| Measurement Modes | Quick and Stability |
| Data Logging | 99 data sets; interval 1–3,600 seconds |
| Power | 4× AAA alkaline batteries (not included) or USB |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 5.11 × 3.6 × 1.85 in (13.0 × 9.2 × 4.7 cm) |
| Weight | 0.35 lb (160 g) |
| Software | Windows 10 and 11 compatible (included) |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Kit Contents
| Included Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water Activity Meter | 1 |
| Sensor Assembly with Sample Cup | 1 |
| Extra Sample Cups with Lids | 5 |
| Replacement Sensor Filters | 5 |
| USB Micro B to USB Type A Cord | 1 |
| Hard Carrying Case | 1 |
Laboratory Applications
In food manufacturing, water activity measurement determines microbial growth potential, directly impacting shelf-life predictions and HACCP compliance. Commercial bakeries rely on aw readings to optimize moisture levels in intermediate-moisture products like granola bars, dried fruits, and jerky.
Pharmaceutical manufacturers use water activity data to validate dosage form stability in accordance with USP and European Pharmacopoeia requirements. Cosmetic formulators measure aw to assess microbial risk in emulsions, creams, and lotions where preservative efficacy depends on available water.
Water Activity Meter Comparison: Why Choose Heathrow Scientific?
| Feature | Heathrow Scientific 47002 | Typical Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Design | Detachable — prep multiple samples simultaneously | Fixed — one sample at a time |
| Measurement Modes | Quick and Stability in one unit | Often requires separate instruments |
| Data Logging | 99 sets with PC transfer software included | Often requires paid software add-on |
| Portability | 0.35 lb with hard carrying case | Benchtop-only or heavier portable units |
| Pricing | Below retail pricing | Full retail |
| Ships From | USA inventory | Varies |
Volume Discounts
LabSupplies.com offers below retail pricing with volume discounts available. As an authorized dealer, we ship directly from USA inventory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a water activity meter used for in food safety?
A water activity meter measures the free water available for microbial growth in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products. By quantifying aw values, QA/QC professionals can predict shelf life, validate HACCP plans, and ensure regulatory compliance with FDA and ISO 18787 standards. The Heathrow Scientific 47002 delivers ±0.01 aw accuracy for reliable safety decisions.
How does the Heathrow Scientific 47002 compare to the AquaLab 4TE?
The Heathrow Scientific 47002 uses a capacitive humidity sensor with a detachable design that allows multi-sample preparation, while the AquaLab 4TE uses chilled-mirror dew point technology. The 47002 is significantly more portable at 0.35 lb and includes data logging software, making it ideal for production-line and field applications where mobility matters.
Can this water activity meter test samples with alcohol content?
The standard capacitive sensor handles solids, powders, and non-volatile liquids. For samples containing primary or secondary alcohols, Heathrow Scientific offers an optional electrical resistance (alcohol) sensor with compatible alcohol-resistant filters, both sold separately. This configuration protects the sensor from volatile compound damage during aw measurement.
What calibration standards are available for this meter?
Heathrow Scientific offers six reusable calibration salt standards spanning the full aw range: Potassium Acetate (0.225 aw), Magnesium Chloride (0.328 aw), Magnesium Nitrate (0.529 aw), Sodium Chloride (0.753 aw), Potassium Chloride (0.843 aw), and Potassium Sulfate (0.973 aw). Each supports ISO 18787:2017 and ASTM E104 testing protocols.