INTERNATIONAL OIML R 59-2

RECOMMENDATION Edition 2016 (E)

Moisture meters for cereal grains and oilseeds.

Part 2: Metrological controls and performance tests

Humidimètres pour grains de céréales et graines oléagineuses.

Partie 2: Contrôles métrologiques et essais de performance

OIML R 59-2 Edition 2016 (E)

ORGANISATION INTERNATIONALE
DE MÉTROLOGIE LÉGALE

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION
OF LEGAL METROLOGY
 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Contents

Foreword ................................................................................................................................................. 4
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 5
1 Practical instructions ............................................................................................................................ 6
1.1 Type approval grain samples .................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Sample records.......................................................................................................................... 6
1.3 Sample handling and storage .................................................................................................... 6
1.4 Sample cleaning ........................................................................................................................ 6
1.5 Representative sample size ....................................................................................................... 6
2 Metrological controls ........................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Units submitted for type test ..................................................................................................... 6
2.2 Documentation .......................................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Type approval ........................................................................................................................... 7
2.4 Test report ................................................................................................................................. 9
Annex A Test procedures ...................................................................................................................... 10
A.1 Accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility ............................................................................ 10
A.1.1 Sample selection ..................................................................................................................... 10
A.1.2 Accuracy test........................................................................................................................... 10
A.1.3 Repeatability ........................................................................................................................... 11
A.1.4 Reproducibility ....................................................................................................................... 12
A.2 Basic instrument tests - influence factors ............................................................................... 12
A.2.1 Sample selection ..................................................................................................................... 12
A.2.2 Instrument stability ................................................................................................................. 12
A.2.3 Instrument warm-up time ........................................................................................................ 12
A.2.4 Instrument power supply ........................................................................................................ 13
A.2.5 Instrument storage temperature............................................................................................... 14
A.2.6 Instrument leveling ................................................................................................................. 14
A.2.7 Humidity ................................................................................................................................. 15
A.2.8 Instrument temperature sensitivity (converting to heat test and cold test).............................. 15
A.3 Sample temperature sensitivity - influence factor test ............................................................ 15
A.4 Additional test for electronic instruments - disturbance tests ................................................. 16
A.4.1 AC mains voltage dips, short interruptions and voltage variations ........................................ 17
A.4.2 Bursts (Transients) on AC mains ............................................................................................ 18
A.4.3 Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic susceptibility ..................................................... 19
A.4.4 Conducted radio-frequency fields ........................................................................................... 20
A.4.5 Electrostatic discharge ............................................................................................................ 21

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Foreword
The International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) is a worldwide, intergovernmental
organization whose primary aim is to harmonize the regulations and metrological controls applied by
the national metrological services, or related organizations, of its Member States.
The main categories of OIML publications are:
• International Recommendations (OIML R), which are model regulations that establish the
metrological characteristics required of certain measuring instruments and which specify
methods and equipment for checking their conformity. OIML Member States shall implement
these Recommendations to the greatest possible extent;
• International Documents (OIML D), which are informative in nature and which are
intended to harmonize and improve work in the field of legal metrology;
• International Guides (OIML G), which are also informative in nature and which are
intended to give guidelines for the application of certain requirements to legal metrology; and
• International Basic Publications (OIML B), which define the operating rules of the various
OIML structures and systems.
OIML Draft Recommendations, Documents and Guides are developed by Project Groups linked to
Technical Committees or Subcommittees which comprise representatives from the Member States.
Certain international and regional institutions also participate on a consultation basis. Cooperative
agreements have been established between the OIML and certain institutions, such as ISO and the
IEC, with the objective of avoiding contradictory requirements. Consequently, manufacturers and
users of measuring instruments, test laboratories, etc. may simultaneously apply OIML publications
and those of other institutions.
International Recommendations, Documents, Guides and Basic Publications are published in English
(E) and translated into French (F) and are subject to periodic revision.
Additionally, the OIML publishes or participates in the publication of Vocabularies (OIML V) and
periodically commissions legal metrology experts to write Expert Reports (OIML E). Expert
Reports are intended to provide information and advice, and are written solely from the viewpoint of
their author, without the involvement of a Technical Committee or Subcommittee, nor that of the
CIML. Thus, they do not necessarily represent the views of the OIML.
This publication – reference OIML R 59-2, Edition 2016 – was developed by Project Group 1 in
OIML Technical Subcommittee TC 17/SC 1 Humidity. It was approved for final publication by the
International Committee of Legal Metrology in 2016 and was submitted to the International
Conference on Legal Metrology in 2016 for formal sanction. It supersedes the previous edition of R 59
dated 1984.
OIML Publications may be downloaded from the OIML website in the form of PDF files. Additional
information on OIML Publications may be obtained from the Organization’s headquarters:
Bureau International de Métrologie Légale
11, rue Turgot - 75009 Paris – France
Telephone: 33 (0)1 48 78 12 82
Fax: 33 (0)1 42 82 17 27
E-mail: [email protected]
Internet: www.oiml.org

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Introduction
1
Moisture content is one of the most critical grain quality measurements because of the direct
economic significance of the fraction of the total product weight that is water and because moisture
content largely determines the rates at which the grain will degrade during handling and storage. Grain
is bought and sold on the basis of weight. Accurate moisture determinations serve as the basis for
appropriate price adjustments.
1
If the moisture content is above the level that ensures safe storage, the grain must be dried to a
suitable level. The energy and handling costs associated with drying grain and the reduction in weight
of the grain during drying result in substantially reduced prices for high moisture grain.
Concomitantly, overly dry grain is discounted from its weight basis and this dockage is partially
justified by the increased susceptibility to breakage during handling for drier grain. The direct
discounts assessed for moist grain and the indirect penalty (giving away dry matter) for dry grain are
powerful inducements to deliver grain with a moisture content that is very close to the established safe
storage level. Because of its significance, moisture content is determined virtually every time grain is
bought and sold.
1
Many technologies have been applied to rapid grain moisture measurement. Rapid indirect methods
measure some physical parameter (such as electrical or optical sensing) and predict moisture content
using calibration equations or charts. These calibrations can change due to changes in crop varieties
planted and seasonal variation in climatic conditions. Invariably, other sample constituents or sample
geometry interfere with the signal caused by water. Temperature usually affects both the water signal
and the interfering signals. Therefore, calibration equations attempt to achieve a best fit between the
measured parameters and the moisture content as defined by an accepted moisture reference method.
Accurate grain moisture measurements depend upon successfully overcoming the effects of interfering
factors, such as density, temperature, chemical composition, and impurities.
This 2016 edition of OIML R 59 contains significant changes to the 1984 edition, notably to reflect
new measuring technologies and aspects of actual grain analysis.
As noted above, grain moisture meters do not measure moisture directly. An electrical or optical
response to the moisture in a grain type is measured and moisture is predicted using calibration
equations. As such, these instruments must be calibrated to predict the moisture of each grain type
used on the instrument. Grains vary from season to season and also grain types may widely vary from
country to country; therefore, a program to address calibration updates is needed to ensure that grain
moisture meter calibrations represent the current crops. If grain moisture instruments are sold to other
countries the calibrations will need to be verified within that country to ensure that the calibrations are
representative of the grains within that particular country. This recommendation does not address an
ongoing calibration program for these instruments. Ongoing calibrations programs may be subject to
metrological controls by the national responsible body.

1
An Investigation of the Nature of the Radio Frequency Dielectric Response in Cereal Grains and Oilseeds with
Engineering Implications for Grain Moisture Meters, A Dissertation in Physics and Engineering, David B.
Funk, Ph.D., D.H.C.

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Moisture meters for cereal grain and oilseeds

Part 2: Metrological controls and performance tests

1 Practical instructions

1.1 Type approval grain samples

The characteristics of the standards (reference materials) shall be representative of the grain being
traded in the region. This is particularly important for the assessment of calibrations. Foreign produce,
i.e. samples based on grain harvested in another country or region, may not be suitable for the
assessment of calibrations due to climatic and crop variability.
The grain samples should be natural; that is, the moisture should not be adjusted by soaking the
sample in water or by spraying the sample with water or by extended exposure of the sample to high
humidity air, or by any other method of moistening. Sufficient sample size should be available to
complete the tests, and satisfy the minimum allowable sample size requirements for the meter and to
allow for reference testing.

1.2 Sample records

The sample records should include: the identification number assigned, the date received, source, grain
type, moisture, and other pertinent information.

1.3 Sample handling and storage

Upon receipt, the integrity of the moisture-tight sample enclosure should be checked and a new
enclosure used if necessary. Most grain samples are to be stored at 2 °C to 8 °C prior to use. Prior to
testing, samples shall be removed from cold storage and equilibrated to room temperature. Except
during analysis time, a test sample shall be returned to its enclosure.

1.4 Sample cleaning

The sample must be visibly free from insects, foreign seeds and any other foreign material. The
condition of the sample (odour, appearance, damage) is recorded on the sample record. Spatial
inhomogeneity in a bulk sample is minimized as much as possible by mixing. The national responsible
body may choose to follow specific standards for cleaning grain, such as ISO standards.

1.5 Representative sample size

The sample shall be divided into representative portions slightly in excess of the amounts needed for
the meter plus reference method analysis.

2 Metrological controls

2.1 Units submitted for type test

Manufacturers shall provide the national responsible body with at least two instruments and an
operating manual. A manufacturer may also provide data and other information that support a
determination of whether the performance of the instrument meets the requirements of this
Recommendation.

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

2.2 Documentation
The documentation submitted with the application for type approval shall include:
(a) description of its general principle of measurement;
(b) lists of the essential sub-assemblies, components (in particular electronics and other essential
ones) with their essential characteristics;
(c) mechanical drawings;
(d) electric/electronic diagrams;
(e) installation requirements;
(f) security sealing plan;
(g) panel layout;
(h) software documentation as described in R 59-1, 5.18.3 (as appropriate for severity level 1
validation A procedures);
(i) test outputs, their use, and their relationships to the parameters being measured;
(j) operating instructions provided to the user, documents or other evidence that supports the
assumption that the design and characteristics of the measuring instrument comply with the
requirements of this Recommendation; and
(k) a list of grains and moisture ranges to be approved using the instrument.

2.3 Type approval

The national responsible body shall review the operating manual for its completeness and clarity of
operating instructions and shall visually inspect the instrument in conjunction with a review of its
specifications by the manufacturer to determine that the technical requirements in clause 6 are met.
The national responsible body shall carry out the tests defined in Annex A to confirm that electronic
moisture measuring instruments perform and function as intended in a specified environment and
under specified conditions.

2.3.1 Accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility tests

Due to the natural variability of grain and oil seeds, grain moisture meters shall be statistically tested
for accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility with natural moisture test samples for all approved grain
types. The entire range of moistures shall be tested at 2 % moisture intervals. These tests shall be
carried out under reference environmental conditions. The two tests for accuracy are moisture error, i.e.
y , the average of the difference between the meter reading and the reference method, and the
standard deviation of this difference, SDD, as defined in A.1.2. The standard deviation, SD , of the
sample replicates is used as the measure of the repeatability of the instrument. Reproducibility
between submitted instruments is estimated by calculating the instrument’s standard deviation of
differences, SDDI . Details of the necessary sampling and the mathematical analysis for y , SDD ,
SD and SDDI can be found in Annex A, A.1.

2.3.2 Influence factors tests

During type evaluation, a moisture meter shall be tested for the following influence factors using the
applicable reference conditions in R 59-1, 4.1.1. Unless otherwise specified, the national responsible
body shall select a single well performing grain type and a 2 % moisture interval for the basic
instrument tests. Meter indicated moisture difference determinations shall be made for each influence
factor according to the details of the analysis contained in the test procedures in Annex A.

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Test procedure section

Influence factors (as appropriate, severity levels are included
in the test procedures, Annex A)
Basic instrument tests

Instrument stability A.2.2

Instrument warm-up time A.2.3
Power source variation:
voltage*
A.2.4
battery voltage*
* whichever is appropriate

Instrument storage temperature A.2.5

Instrument leveling A.2.6
Instrument humidity sensitivity A.2.7
Instrument temperature sensitivity A.2.8
Sample temperature test
Sample temperature sensitivity A.3

A description of the performance tests for these influence factors is given in Annex A Test procedures.

2.3.3 Disturbance tests

When subjected individually to the disturbances specified in the immunity tests of IEC 61326 (latest
revision)[8] and/or recommended disturbances in OIML D 11 the meter shall not exhibit a significant
fault as defined in R 59-1, 2.3.14.

Test procedure section

Disturbance test (as appropriate, severity levels are included in the test
procedures, Annex A)
AC mains voltage dips, short A.4.1
interruptions and voltage variations (OIML D 11, 13.4)
A.4.2
Bursts (transients) on AC mains
(OIML D 11, 13.5)
Radiated radiofrequency, A.4.3
electromagnetic susceptibility (OIML D 11, 12.1.1)
A.4.4
Conducted radiofrequency fields
(OIML D 11, 12.1.2)
A.4.5
Electrostatic discharges
(OIML D 11, 12.2)

2.3.4 Error under rated operating conditions

The type of measuring instrument is presumed to comply with the provisions specified in R 59-1, 4.1
to R 59-1, 4.7 of this Recommendation, if it passes the tests in Annex A, confirming that the error of
the measuring instrument does not exceed the maximum permissible error on initial verification
specified in R 59-1, 4.4.1 under the reference conditions in R 59-1, 4.1.1.

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

2.4 Test report

The test report on the grain moisture meter tests carried out at type approval shall contain, as a
minimum, the items of information according to the format provided in R 59-3 Test report format. A
specific form may be developed according to national preference. The manufacturer shall be provided
specific comments about any test failures.

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Annex A
Test procedures
(Mandatory)

General

This Annex defines the program of performance tests intended to ensure that electronic moisture
measuring instruments perform and function as intended in a specified environment and under
specified conditions. Each test indicates, where appropriate, the reference conditions under which the
intrinsic error is determined.
When the effect of one influence quantity or disturbance is being evaluated, all other influence
quantities and disturbances shall be held relatively constant, at values close to reference conditions.
The instrument shall be stabilized according to the manufacturer’s specifications. If the manufacturer
does not recommend a warm-up time, assume that accurate results will be provided immediately after
the instrument is turned on.
For testing, the display should allow resolution to 0.01 %.
Specification of grain moisture samples used in type evaluation testing:
 the samples shall be naturally occurring grain. Sample sets should be as homogeneous as
possible;
 the test samples of grain shall be clean, sound and fit for purpose;
The tests in A.1, A.2 and A.3 are described for two instruments (i.e. two sample units are the
equipment under test (EUT). The tests in A.4 are described for one instrument (i.e. one sample unit is
the equipment under test).

A.1 Accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility

A.1.1 Sample selection

The testing laboratory shall choose well-performing moisture-stable grain samples comprising three
adjacent 2 % moisture intervals within a minimum range of 6 % moisture (e.g. 10 % to 12 %, 12 % to
14 %, 14 % to 16 %) for conducting type approval testing. Grain and seed types chosen should be
economically important and significantly different in their physical structure to adequately test the
instrumentation. The national responsible body shall be responsible for determining the variable grains
used for conducting testing. Moisture intervals selected should bracket commercially important
moisture levels for the grain type. For uniformity of application, each 2 % moisture interval should
begin and end with an even number (i.e. the moisture range of 10 % to 12 % will consist of samples in
the moisture range of 10.1 % to 12 %). The maximum value calculated for a given 2 % moisture
interval (i.e. 10 % to 12 %, 12 % to 14 %, 14 % to 16 %) shall be used when calculating the MPEs.
A sample set for accuracy, repeatability and reproducibility shall consist of a minimum of 30 samples
with ten samples selected from each 2 % moisture interval. Grain sample sets shall be prescreened for
moisture homogeneity by comparing an approved moisture meter result to the result of determinations
using the reference moisture method. No sample set shall be used where the standard deviation of the
differences (SDD) between the approved moisture meter and the reference method for the samples in
any of the 2 % moisture intervals exceed the MPEs defined in column 2 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1 minus
0.1.
Three replicates will be run on each instrument for each sample, resulting in a total of 180
observations per grain type (2 instruments × 3 moisture intervals × 10 samples × 3 replicates).

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.1.2 Accuracy test

The accuracy test consists of two tests: error determination and SDD. Accuracy acceptance
requirements for both are defined in column 2 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1 for the appropriate 2 % moisture
intervals. Reference method portions shall be cut off from each sample and submitted to the reference
procedure before and after the above tests, and the results recorded. The two tests for accuracy are
moisture error, y , (meter reading versus reference method) and the standard deviation of the
differences, SDD , between the meter and the reference method for each of the 2 % moisture
intervals. Each instrument shall be individually tested. The equations for y and SDD are given
below:
n

∑ (x − ri )
∑ (y )
n
i 2
y= i =1 i −y
n SDD = i =1

n −1
where

y = average overall y i

yi = x i − ri

xi = average meter moisture value for sample i (3 replicates)

ri = reference moisture value for sample i

n = number of samples per 2 % moisture interval ( n = 10)
The manufacturer may adjust the calibration bias to compensate for differences from the type
evaluation laboratory in reference methods or sample sets.

A.1.3 Repeatability

The repeatability of a meter is defined as the standard deviation, SD , of the three replicates. It shall
be calculated for each sample in a 2 % moisture interval and pooled across samples. Each instrument
shall be tested individually. The equation used to calculate SD is given below:

∑∑ (x )
n 3
2
ij − xi
i =1 j =1
SD =
2n
where
x ij = meter moisture value for sample i and replicate j

x i = average of the three moisture values for sample i

n = number of samples per 2 % moisture interval ( n = 10)
Repeatability requirements for SD are defined in column 4 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1 for the appropriate
2 % moisture interval.

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.1.4 Reproducibility

Reproducibility between submitted instruments is estimated by calculating the standard deviation of

differences, SDDI over the 6 % moisture range. The equation used to calculate instrument
reproducibility is given below:

∑ (d )
n
2
i −d
SDDI = i =1

n −1
where
d i = x i(1) − x i(2 )
x i(1) = mean of three replicates for sample i on instrument 1
x i( 2 ) = mean of three replicates for sample i on instrument 2

d= mean of the d i
n= number of samples in all 2 % moisture ranges
Reproducibility requirements are defined in column 5 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1 for the 6 % moisture
range.

A.2 Basic instrument tests – influence factors

A.2.1 Sample selection

Unless otherwise specified the following tests shall be performed using a single, stable moisture
sample. Throughout the influence factor testing, portions of the grain samples shall be tested to
determine that the moisture content is appropriate for the test and that the sample was stable
throughout the test. As an example a reference moisture method or master instrument can be used. In
any case, the method used to assess the sample stability shall be indicated in the test report.

A.2.2 Instrument stability

Three samples shall be tested, one from each of the three 2 % moisture interval samples of a single
grain type (e.g. 10 % to 12 %, 12 % to 14 %, 14 % to 16 %).
Number of repetitions: 5.
The minimum time period for assessing instrument stability shall be four weeks. Each of the 3 samples
shall be measured 5 times through all of the meters submitted for type approval, prior to running any
other type evaluation tests. The mean moisture content obtained for the 15 observations (3 samples ×
5 replicates) shall be recorded. The 3 samples shall be stored and retested once all other type
evaluation testing has been completed. The maximum permitted difference between the means of the
two tests is defined in column 3 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1.

A.2.3 Instrument warm-up time

Number of repetitions: 5.
The following test procedures shall be used to check warm-up times recommended by the
manufacturer. If the manufacturer does not recommend a warm-up time, assume that turning the
instrument power on will immediately provide accurate results.

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Test sequence:
(1) Instrument powered off and stabilized at reference conditions (overnight).
(2) Instrument powered on, test after waiting for the specified warm-up time.
(3) Test after waiting one hour or twice the manufacturer’s recommended warm-up time,
whichever is greater.
For an instrument where no warm-up time is specified, the sample shall be tested immediately upon
the instrument being powered on and then again after 1 hour. The maximum permitted difference
between the means of the two tests is defined in column 3 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1.

A.2.4 Instrument power supply

A.2.4.1 Main voltage variation

Number of repetitions: 10.

Applicable standards: IEC/TR3 61000-2-1, IEC 61000-2-2, IEC 61000-4-1
Voltage variation nominal voltage : (Unom) Unom – 15 %, Unom + 10 %
Voltage shall be varied to the above stated levels. Voltage settings shall be determined and recorded to
± 0.1 V. The difference between the mean moisture indication at the nominal voltage and the mean
moisture indication at the tested extremes of voltage shall be evaluated.
The maximum permitted difference between the mean moisture meter value at nominal voltage and
the mean value determined at the high and low voltage test points is defined in column 3 of R 59-1,
Table 4.4.1. The maximum allowable standard deviation of 10 repeat measurements at any of the
voltage levels is 0.10 %. For battery-powered devices the SD for 10 repeat measurements for a
nominal battery charge is 0.10 %.
After each change in the voltage, the meter shall be allowed to stabilize for 30 minutes before testing.

A.2.4.2 Low voltage of internal battery (not connected to the mains power)

The test method consists of a variation in the supply voltage. The objective of this test is to verify
compliance with the provisions in R 59-1, 4.4.1 under conditions of low battery voltage.
The test procedure consists of exposure to the specified condition of the battery(s) for a period
sufficient for achieving temperature stability and for performing the required measurements. If an
alternative power source (standard power supply with sufficient current capacity) is used in bench
testing to simulate the battery, it is important that the internal impedance of the specified type of
battery also be simulated. The maximum internal impedance of the battery shall be specified by the
manufacturer of the instrument.
Test sequence:
Stabilize the power supply at a voltage within the defined limits and apply the measurement and/or
loading condition. Record the following data:
(a) Date and time
(b) Temperature
(c) Power supply voltage
(d) Functional mode
(e) Measurements and/or loading condition
(f) Indications (as applicable)
(g) Errors
(h) Functional performance

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Reduce the power voltage to the EUT until the equipment clearly ceases to function properly
according to the specifications and metrological requirements, and note the following data:
(i) Power supply voltage
(j) Indications
(k) Errors
(l) Other relevant responses of the instrument
The severity for this test is level 1. At level 1 the lower limit of the voltage is the lowest voltage at
which the EUT functions properly according to the specifications and the number of cycles is at least
one test cycle for each functional mode.

A.2.5 Instrument storage temperature

Number of repetitions: 10.

The purpose of this test is to simulate extreme shipping conditions. The national responsible body may
specify different temperature limits. A single sample is analyzed (n = 10) at reference conditions
(R 59-1, 4.1.1) prior to temperature cycling. The instrument is then powered down and placed in the
environmental chamber. The chamber temperature is then increased to 50 °C or greater as specified by
the national responsible body over a 1-hour period and maintained at that temperature for 3 hours. The
chamber temperature is then decreased to –20 °C over a 1-hour period and maintained at that
temperature for 3 hours. Repeat the temperature cycle. The instrument is equilibrated at reference
conditions (R 59-1, 4.1.1) for at least 12 hours unpowered. The instrument is turned on for the
specified warm-up period and the test sample analyzed a second time (n = 10).
The mean of each replicate measurement shall be determined before and after temperature cycling.
The maximum allowable difference in the mean values due to temperature cycling is defined in
column 3 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1.

A.2.6 Instrument leveling

A.2.6.1 Instruments without level indicators

Number of repetitions: 5.
Reference tilt condition: instrument level within 0.1°
Degree of tilt: 5 % front to back and left to right (minimum of 2 orientations of tilt)
The test procedure consists of measuring the single sample with the instrument mounted on a level
surface (reference alignment), then in each of the two orientations of tilt front-to-back and left to right,
at a tilt of 5 %, returning to the reference alignment for the final test. Reference method portions shall
be cut out from the bulk sample and submitted to the reference procedure or master meter before and
after the instrument level tests, and the results recorded.
The mean of each replicate measurement shall be determined for each orientation. The maximum
allowable difference in the mean values of each tilt orientation from the mean of the two reference
orientations is defined in column 3 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1.

A.2.6.2 Instruments with level indicators

Meters equipped with level indicators shall be tested at the indicated limits of the level indicator (front
to back and left to right) rather than the specified tilt in A.2.6.1. Orientations similar to those in
A.2.6.1 shall be applied with the same performance requirements.

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.2.7 Humidity

Number of repetitions: 10.

Instruments (power on) shall be placed in an environmental chamber at 22 °C and a relative humidity
of 20 % for 16 hours. Samples shall be stored sealed at reference conditions. After equilibration the
sample shall then be analyzed in the chamber. The relative humidity shall be raised to 90 % (22 °C)
and, after the instrument has equilibrated at this humidity for at least 16 hours, the sample shall again
be analyzed.
The mean of each replicate measurement shall be determined for each humidity level. The maximum
allowable difference in the mean values between the two humidity levels is defined in column 3 of
R 59-1, Table 4.4.1.

A.2.8 Instrument temperature sensitivity (converting to heat test and cold test)

One grain type

Three samples, one from each of the three 2 % moisture intervals of a single grain type (e.g. 10 % to
12 %, 12 % to 14 %, 14 % to 16 %)
Instruments shall be tested in an environment chamber at:
(1) Reference temperature, tR, (5.1), 65 % RH.
(2) The lower operating temperature (t1), 65 % RH.
(3) The upper operating temperature (t2), constant humidity ratio of 0.005 kg of water per kg of
dry air. The manufacturer shall declare t1 and t2 as the instruments operating range. If the
operating range is not declared then the minimum operating temperature range from 10 ºC to
30 ºC shall apply.
Instrument temperature sensitivity tests shall be run using three moisture level samples. Each sample
shall be cut into 3 portions for testing at tR, at t1, and at t2 . Instruments shall remain in the chamber
throughout cycling to the appropriate temperatures; the sample shall be placed in the test chamber at
the test temperature for at least 4 hours in a covered moisture inert container before instrument
moisture measurements. Instruments shall be equilibrated to the new environmental conditions at least
4 hours prior to sample testing. The mean of each replicate measurement shall be determined for each
temperature level. The maximum allowable difference in the mean values between tR, and t1 and tR, at
t2 is 0.8 × the value in column 2 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1.
Note: To facilitate testing of instrument temperature sensitivity, manufacturers shall provide a means
of disabling the instrument feature for suppressing the display of moisture results when
temperature ranges are exceeded. The national responsible body may address these
requirements procedurally.

A.3 Sample temperature sensitivity - influence factor test

Three grain types

Three 2 % moisture interval samples: (e.g. 10 % to 12 %, 12 % to 14 %, 14 % to 16 %)
Number of samples: (3 grain types, 3 moisture levels, duplicate samples at each moisture level)
Number of repetitions: 3
Instrument temperature: at reference conditions (R 59-1, 4.1.1), reference temperature (tref)
Grain or seed temperatures: reference temperature (tref), manufacturer declared tref ± ∆t or minimum ∆t
of ± 10 °C in case of no separate specification

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

Additional testing is required to verify that accurate results are provided when the sample and
instrument are at different temperatures. This will be referred to as the sample temperature sensitivity
test. The purpose of this test is to verify that the instrument provides accurate results when there is a
difference in temperature between the sample and the instrument. The sample temperature sensitivity
test shall be conducted using the three grain or seed types comprising three 2 % moisture intervals. For
practical reasons due to the ability to accurately determine the reference value of elevated temperature
grain samples, the maximum sample temperature for type approval testing shall be 45 °C.
The grain and seed test temperature shall be according to the manufacturer’s specification. If there is
no separate specification, the minimum temperature difference requirement shall be ± 10 °C from the
reference temperature. Tests shall be conducted with the instrument at reference temperature (tref , see
R 59-1, 4.1.1) and the sample temperature varying from tref – ∆tC to tref + ∆tH, where tref is the reference
temperature. The manufacturer’s specified sample temperature for the sample above the instrument
temperature is represented as tref + ∆tH and below as tref – ∆tC. The two temperature differences need
not be equal. In no case shall tref + ∆tH be allowed to exceed 45 °C for the test.
Three moisture level analyses shall be made for each grain sample at each of the three test
temperatures. The means for the 18 observations (2 samples × 3 moisture intervals × 3 replicates) of
each grain or seed type shall be determined. The maximum permitted difference at the sample
temperature extreme from moisture levels measured at reference sample temperature is 2.25 ×
column 3 of R 59-1, Table 4.4.1. for grain types in row I, otherwise it is 2 × column 3 of R 59-1, Table
4.4.1. for grain types in row II.

A.4 Additional test for electronic instruments - disturbance tests

The tests, which are specific to electronic instruments, as described in this section, are tests from the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and OIML D 11.
The disturbance tests in this section are described for a single instrument, i.e. one sample unit is the
equipment under test (EUT). Testing with appropriate measures where the use of grain samples would
not be possible or constructive due to the test conditions of the disturbance test is permitted.
References to the IEC publications have been made in each section as appropriate and publication
dates for these documents are included in the Bibliography of this Recommendation. When conducting
these tests for electronic instruments, the test should be conducted on the basis of the most recent
versions valid at the time of testing. The standard and the version date used for the test shall be noted
in the test report.

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.4.1 AC mains voltage dips, short interruptions and voltage variations

Standards IEC 61000-4-11 [21], IEC 61000-6-1 [19], IEC 61000-6-2 [20]
Test method Short-time reductions in mains voltage
Sample One sample with mid-range moisture and stable moisture content.
Allowable grains are specified by the national responsible body. Wheat is
the preferred grain type.
Consecutive measurements per sample at each condition: 10
Test procedure Over four tests, the EUT shall be subjected to voltage reductions and
in brief interruptions of varying intensity and duration.
A test generator suitable to reduce the amplitude of the AC mains voltage
for a defined period of time is used. The performance of the test generator
shall be verified before connecting to the EUT.
The mains voltage interruptions and reductions shall be repeated with a
time interval less than the time required for a single measurement so that
at least one voltage interruption occurs per measurement. At least 10
cycles are necessary for each test to enable the required number of
measurements.
Record the following prior to and during each test:
(a) moisture measurements;
(b) indications and errors; and
(c) functional performance.
Test severity Test (a) Unom to zero for a duration equal to half a cycle of frequency
Test (b) Unom to zero for a duration equal to one cycle of frequency
Test (c) Unom to 70 % reduction for a duration equal to 25/30* cycles of
frequency
Test (d) Unom to zero for a duration equal to 250/300* cycles of frequency
Notes *Values are for 50 Hz and 60 Hz respectively
Requirements All operational functions shall operate as designed (e.g. indicators).
The effect of the disturbance on moisture measurements shall not exceed a
significant fault or the instrument shall detect and react to the fault
(see R 59-1, 2.3.14 and 2.3.3)

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.4.2 Bursts (transients) on AC mains

Standards IEC 61000-4-1 [8], IEC 61000-4-4 [21]

Test method Electrical bursts
Sample One sample with mid-range moisture and stable moisture content. Allowable
grains are specified by the national responsible body. Wheat is the preferred
grain type.
Consecutive measurements per sample at each condition: 10
Test procedure The test consists of subjecting the EUT to bursts of double exponential wave
in brief form transient voltages. All bursts shall be applied during the same
measurement in symmetrical mode and asymmetrical mode.
The characteristics of the burst generator shall be verified before connecting
the EUT.
The duration of the test shall not be less than 1 min for each amplitude and
polarity. The injection network on the mains shall contain blocking filters to
prevent the burst energy being dissipated in the mains.
Record the following prior to test and during the application of bursts:
(a) moisture measurements;
(b) indications and errors; and
(c) functional performance.
Test severity Amplitude (peak value): 1 kV
Repetition rate: 5 kHz
Number of test At least 10 positive and 10 negative randomly phased bursts shall be applied
cycles at 1000 V. The bursts are applied during all the time necessary to perform a
measurement. At least 10 measurements shall be made with the bursts
applied.
Requirements All operational functions shall operate as designed (e.g. indicators).
The effect of the disturbance on moisture measurements shall not exceed a
significant fault or the instrument shall detect and react to the fault
(see R 59-1, 2.3.14 and 2.3.3).

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.4.3 Radiated, radio-frequency, electromagnetic susceptibility

Standards IEC 61000-4-3 [22]

Test method Radiated electromagnetic fields
Sample One sample with mid-range moisture and stable moisture content. Allowable
grains are specified by the national responsible body. Wheat is the preferred
grain type.
One sample with mid-range moisture.
Test procedure The test procedure involves the exposure of the EUT to electromagnetic field
in brief strength as specified by the severity level and field uniformity as defined by
the referred standard.
The specified field strength shall be established prior to the actual testing
(without the EUT in the field).
The field shall be generated in two orthogonal polarizations and the frequency
range shall be scanned slowly. If antennas with circular polarization (i.e. log-
spiral or helical antennas) are used to generate the electromagnetic field, a
change in the position of the antennas is not required.
When the test is carried out in a shielded enclosure to comply with
international laws prohibiting interference on radio communications, care
shall be taken to handle reflections from the walls.
The frequency ranges to be considered are swept with the modulated signal,
pausing to adjust the RF signal level or to switch oscillators and antennas as
necessary. Where the frequency range is swept incrementally, the step size
shall not exceed 1 % of the preceding frequency value.
The dwell time of the amplitude modulated carrier at each frequency shall not
be less than the time necessary for the EUT to be exercised and to respond,
but shall in no case be less than 0.5 s.
The sensitive frequencies (e.g. clock frequencies) shall be analyzed
separately.
Record the following prior to the test and then with radiated EM fields:
(a) moisture measurements;
(b) indications and errors; and
(c) functional performance.
Test severity EM frequency range: 26 MHz–2 GHz
For the frequency range 26–80 MHz, the testing laboratory may carry out the
test according to A.4.4 “Conducted RF fields”.
Field strength: Radiated 10 V/m
Modulation: 80 % AM, 1 kHz sine wave
Requirements All operational functions shall operate as designed (e.g. indicators).
The effect of the disturbance on moisture measurements shall not exceed a
significant fault or the instrument shall detect and react to the fault
(see R 59-1, 2.3.14 and 2.3.3).
Notes The EM field can be generated in different facilities, however the use of
which is limited by the dimensions of the EUT and the frequency range of the
facility:
(a) the strip line is used at low frequencies (below 30 MHz or in some cases
150 MHz) for small EUT;
(b) the long wire is used at low frequencies (below 30 MHz) for larger EUT;
(c) dipole antennas or antennas with circular polarization placed at least 1 m
from the EUT are used at high frequencies.

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OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.4.4 Conducted radio-frequency fields

Standards IEC 61000-4-6 [16]

Test method Conducted electromagnetic fields
Sample One sample with mid-range moisture and stable moisture content.
Allowable grains are specified by the national responsible body. Wheat is
the preferred grain type.
Consecutive measurements per sample at each setting: as many as possible
over the sweep across the frequency range.
Test procedure The test procedure involves the use of radio frequency EM current,
in brief simulating the influence of EM fields coupled or injected into the power
ports and I/O ports of the EUT using coupling/decoupling devices as
defined in the referred standard.
The performance of the test equipment consisting of an RF generator,
coupling devices, attenuators, etc. shall be verified.
Record the following prior to the test and then with conducted EM fields:
(a) moisture measurements;
(b) indications and errors; and
(c) functional performance.
Test severity EM frequency range: 0.15–80* MHz
*For the frequency range 26–80 MHz, the testing laboratory may carry out
the test according to A.4.3. However, in case of dispute, the result from the
test according to A.4.4 shall prevail.
RF amplitude (50 Ω): 10 V (e.m.f)
Modulation: 80 % AM, 1 kHz sine wave
Requirements All operational functions shall operate as designed (e.g. indicators).
The effect of the disturbance on the moisture measurement shall not exceed
a significant fault or the instrument shall detect and react to the fault
(see R 59-1, 2.3.14 and 2.3.3).

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 OIML R 59-2:2016 (E)

A.4.5 Electrostatic discharge

Standards IEC 61000-4-2 [17]

Test method Electrostatic discharge (ESD)
Sample One sample with mid-range moisture and stable moisture content. Allowable
grains are specified by the national responsible body. Wheat is the preferred
grain type.
Consecutive measurements per sample at each condition: 10
Test procedure A capacitor of 150 PF is charged by a suitable DC voltage source. The
in brief capacitor is then discharged through the EUT by connecting one terminal to
ground (chassis) and the other via 330 Ω to surfaces which are normally
accessible to the operator.
The test includes the paint penetration method, if appropriate. For direct
discharges, the air discharge shall be used where the contact discharge method
cannot be applied.
Before starting the tests, the performance of the ESD generator shall be
verified.
For EUT not equipped with a ground terminal, the EUT shall be fully
discharged between discharges.
Direct application:
In the contact discharge mode to be carried out on conductive surfaces, the
electrode shall be in contact with the EUT.
In the air discharge mode on insulated surfaces, the electrode is approached to
the EUT and the discharge occurs by spark.
Indirect application:
The discharges are applied in the contact mode to coupling planes mounted in
the vicinity of the EUT.
Record the following prior to test and then during application of ESDs:
(a) moisture measurements;
(b) indications and errors; and
(c) functional performance.
Test severity Air discharge voltage: 2, 4, 6, 8 kV
Contact discharge voltage: 2, 4, and 6 kV
Number of test At least one direct discharge and one indirect discharge shall be applied during
cycles the one measurement. At least 10 deliveries shall be made with the discharges
applied. The time interval between successive discharges shall be at least 10
seconds.
Requirements All operational functions shall operate as designed (e.g. indicators).
The effect of the disturbance on the moisture measurement shall not exceed a
significant fault or the instrument shall detect and react to the fault
(see R 59-1, 2.3.14 and 2.3.3).

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