Flour & Milling Analysis by FT-NIR

Importance of Topic

Near infrared spectroscopy plays a pivotal role in the flour and milling industry by enabling rapid and non disruptive analysis of key quality parameters in wheat and flour. FT NIR accelerates decision making at multiple processing stages and helps secure consistent product quality and process efficiency.

Objectives and Overview

• Assess incoming wheat quality for moisture protein ash and gluten content
• Optimize conditioning by monitoring moisture prior to milling
• Control milling performance via ash concentration measurements
• Replace labor intensive rheological and chemical tests with rapid FT NIR screening

Methodology and Instrumentation

FT NIR spectroscopy measures absorption in the near infrared region to quantify chemical constituents based on calibrated reference models. Ready to use NIR calibration packages enable results within seconds without reagent consumption. Instrumentation deployed includes the TANGO analyzer for routine laboratory use the MPA II for flexible method development and the MATRIX F II spectrometer for on line and at line process monitoring. Model validation is supported by BIPEA proficiency test samples.

Main Results and Discussion

Validated calibration models demonstrate reliable prediction of moisture protein ash and wet gluten levels in both unground wheat and flour samples. FT NIR results correlate closely with standard reference methods while reducing analysis time from hours to seconds. The technology also accurately predicts functional parameters such as alveograph resistance and extensibility and dough water absorption.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid quality screening of wheat at intake for yield maximization
• Real time moisture control during conditioning for process optimization
• In line ash and protein monitoring for consistent flour characteristics
• Substitution of time consuming rheological tests reduces labor and cost
• High sample throughput supports modern production demands

Future Trends and Opportunities

• Integration of FT NIR data with process control systems for closed loop automation
• Application of advanced chemometric and machine learning algorithms to enhance calibration robustness
• Expansion to co product streams and alternative grains
• Wireless sensor networks and cloud based analytics for remote monitoring

Conclusion

FT NIR spectroscopy provides a versatile and cost effective solution for comprehensive flour and milling analysis. Its speed accuracy and ease of use enable improved product quality process efficiency and significant cost savings across the milling value chain.

Reference

• Bruker Optics GmbH Application Note N305 Flour & Milling Analysis by FT NIR