IMG-S: Precision Moisture Measurement for the Straw & Biomass Sector
Digitalized and fast truckload measurement for pulp yield, calorific value, and storage safety
The Challenge
In the pulp and biomass sector, straw bales are used as raw material for pulp production and as biomass for energy. But their true value — and safety — is determined by accurate knowledge of moisture content.
The risks are significant:
- Pulp yield uncertainty — without precise moisture data, fiber balance and production planning become inconsistent.
- Calorific value disputes — energy settlements depend on KJ/ton, yet traditional methods cannot calculate this accurately.
- Hidden fire hazards — bales with >20–25% moisture can develop microbial activity that generates internal heat, leading to rot, mold, and even spontaneous combustion within 2–6 weeks of storage.
- Non-representative sampling — handheld or lab checks only measure a few spots of the delivery, ignoring extreme wet spots that pose the greatest risks.
- Compliance pressure — sustainable biomass sourcing requires transparent, verifiable and digital data for CSR reporting and EU green regulations.
The result?
Unreliable moisture data inflates costs, creates disputes, endangers storage facilities, and undermines both profitability and trust.
The IMG-S Solution
Dunakontroll’s Industrial Moisture Gate for Straw (IMG-S) delivers fast, digital, and representative measurement of entire truckloads — solving the key challenges of pulp yield, calorific value, and storage safety.
- Full truckload measurement in under 60 seconds — no unloading, no manual sampling
- Accurate pulp yield prediction — enabling smarter process optimization and fiber balance control
- Calorific value calculation (KJ/ton) — transparent, fair settlements in biomass trade
- Storage safety assurence— detect high-risk bales before storage, preventing rot and fire hazards
- ERP/IT integration — instant data transfer for smarter, digitalized operations
Lower costs. Safer storage. Higher sustainability.
How does it work?
Microwave Precision Meets 3D Optical Intelligence
The Microwave System generates multiple polarized low-power electromagnetic fields. Variations caused by water in the bales provide precise information about moisture content.
The 3D Optical System collects physical data on the truckload: width, length, height, speed, gaps, and load structure. This data controls the microwave system and calculates total load volume, ensuring accurate and representative results.
Key Benefits for Pulp & Biomass Companies
Maximize Yield
- Transparent procurement — pay for usable fiber, not hidden water
- Reliable pulp yield prediction for smarter production planning
- Consistent raw material quality for stable operations
Optimize Energy Value
- Accurate calorific value (KJ/ton) calculation for fair biomass settlements
- Reduce disputes with suppliers through verifiable, digitalized reporting
- Strengthen profitability with data-driven energy input management
Ensure Storage Safety
- Detect dangerous moisture levels before storage
- Prevent rot, mold, and spontaneous combustion — protecting assets and supply security
- Reduce operational risks and insurance costs with verifiable safety data
Ready to discover your benefits? Or have other questions?
