humimeter BLO Online Analysing Device
Operating manual for the BLO online analysing device with universal sensor for measuring the moisture content of wood chips, pellets, sawdust and other materials.
Version 3.0
Your BLO device at a glance
The main unit
The main unit consists of:
- 1 Aluminium housing for electronics
- 2 Display
- 3 Keypad
Overview of Plugs
Standard Unit:
- 1 Power input: 24 VDC & analogue output
- 2 Ground screw
- 3 Push-Pull sensor plug
Option 100 - 240 VAC (art.no.: 12215):
- 1 Power input: 100 - 240 VAC
- 2 Analogue output
- 3 Ground screw
- 4 Push-Pull sensor plug
The Display
The display shows:
- 1 Calibration curve
- 2 Moisture content in % (See "6.2 How moisture content is defined")
- 3 Display symbols
- 4 Temperature display
Display Symbols:
- Symbol Enter: Enter
- Symbol Up: Up
- Symbol Down: Down
- Symbol Back: Back
- Symbol Enter numbers: Enter numbers
- Symbol Enter letters: Enter letters
- Symbol Continue / go right: Continue / go right
- Symbol Left: Left
- Symbol Yes: Yes
- Symbol No: No
- Symbol Change input level: Change input level
- Symbol OK: OK
- Symbol Change menu: Change menu
The Menus
The device features two menus:
Product selection menu:
- 1 Change menu
- 2 Device on/off
- 3 For changing the calibration curve
Main menu:
The main menu includes:
- Options: Language, Unlock, °C/°F, Averaging, BL On Time, Material calibration, Password, Reset
- Status
Your universal sensor (art.no.: 15222)
Back side of the universal sensor:
- 1 Ground screw
- 2 Push-Pull sensor plug
Front side of the universal sensor:
- 1 Sensor surfaces
1. Introduction
1.1 Information about this operating manual
This manual is designed for safe and effective use of the BLO device. It must be stored nearby and be accessible to users at all times. All users must read and understand this manual before operation. Adhering to all safety and operating instructions is crucial for device safety.
1.2 Limitation of liability
Schaller Messtechnik GmbH is not liable for damages resulting from:
- Non-observance of this operating manual
- Improper use
- Inadequately qualified users
- Unauthorized modifications
- Technical changes
- Use of unapproved spare parts
The fast measuring procedure can be influenced by various factors. Periodic checks with a standardized oven-drying method are recommended. Schaller Messtechnik GmbH is not liable for incorrect measurements or consequential damages.
1.3 Symbols used in this manual
ATTENTION: Essential to observe this warning. Non-compliance can lead to damage to property or equipment.
Information: Indicates important information for more efficient and cost-effective device use.
1.4 Customer service
For technical advice, contact:
Schaller Messtechnik GmbH
Max-Schaller-Straße 99
A - 8181 St. Ruprecht an der Raab
Telephone: +43 (0)3178 28899
Fax: +43 (0)3178 28899 - 901
E-Mail: info@humimeter.com
Internet: www.humimeter.com
2. For your safety
2.1 Proper use
- Online measurement of water content and temperature of wood chips, pellets, sawdust, and other materials via sensor installation in the material flow.
- Fully calibrated system with measurement value calculation by the transmitter unit.
2.2 Improper use
- The device must not be used in ATEX environments.
- Ensure no condensation occurs in the sensor at the installation location.
2.3 User qualifications
The device must only be operated by qualified persons who can reliably take measurements. Users whose reaction times may be slowed by drugs, alcohol, or medication should not operate the device. All users must read, understand, and follow the instructions in this manual.
2.4 General safety information
Observe the following to avoid damage and injury:
- In case of damages or loose parts, contact Schaller Messtechnik GmbH or your dealer.
- All technical features have been inspected and tested before delivery.
- Do not remove the serial number tag.
2.5 Warranty
The warranty does not cover:
- Damage from non-observance of the operating manual
- Damage from third-party interventions
- Improperly used or modified products
- Products with missing or damaged warranty seals
- Damage from force majeure or natural disasters
- Damage from improper cleaning
3. On receipt of your device
3.1 Taking the device out of its packaging
- Carefully remove the device from its packaging.
- Check for damage and missing parts.
3.2 Making sure that all of the components have been included
Verify package contents against the following list:
3.2.1 Scope of supply
- BLO analysing device
- Universal sensor
- Connecting cable of 1.9 m length
- Push-pull sensor cable with a length of 5 metres
- Ground cable with 5 metre length
- Operating manual
Optional accessories:
- 100 - 240 VAC power supply
- Ethernet interface
4. Installation of the wood chips sensor
4.1 Laying of the supply line or transmission line
- Avoid laying cables in areas of interference fields or operating the sensor in such areas.
- Do not bend the cable excessively.
- Observe permissible cross-sections for installation.
- Keep cable length as short as possible.
- If cable extension is required, the cross-section must not be below 0.25 mm².
4.2 Mounting the sensor
- Ensure continuous contact between the white sensor surfaces and the material during measurement.
- A constant amount of material in the sensor's measuring field is essential for correct results.
- No conductive materials should contact the sensor surfaces.
- Mount the sensor using the four drilled holes (Ø 9.0 mm) in the sensor block.
- Possible mounting locations include bunkers (side wall installation) or screw conveyors (bottom of the trough).
- Ensure no coils are located directly above the sensor.
4.3 Measuring principle
The capacitive measuring principle utilizes the difference in dielectric coefficient between dry, non-conductive material (approx. 2-10) and water (approx. 80). Higher water content leads to a higher dielectric coefficient. This increased capacity in the sensor's stray field is converted by the evaluation electronics into weight percent, displaying the water content.
4.4 Mounting the analysing device
- Pre-mount the setscrews.
- Mount the wall bracket using 4 countersunk screws (Ø 5.0 mm).
- Place the analysing device into the wall bracket.
- Fix the analysing device to the wall bracket using the pre-assembled setscrews.
4.5 Connecting the sensor cable
- The sensor cable uses a Push-Pull plug.
- Connect the plug by pressing it onto the socket. Pay attention to the elevations in the plug for correct positioning.
- After connecting the sensor cable, connect the evaluation electronics and the sensor using the provided ground cable.
4.6 Disconnecting the sensor cable
- To disconnect the sensor cable plug, pull the black sleeve off the device.
4.7 Pin assignment
| Cable color | Pin no. | Function |
| Brown | 1 | Power supply V- (0 VDC) |
| White | 2 | Ground current output |
| Blue | 3 | Power supply V+ (24 VDC) |
| Black | 4 | Analogue output humidity 4 - 20 mA |
| Grey | 5 | Analogue output temperature 4 - 20 mA |
| Purple | Housing | Equipotential bonding GND |
ATTENTION: Damage to the electronics due to incorrect cable connection can occur. Connect all cables correctly.
4.8 Wiring diagram
The wiring diagram illustrates the connections for the BLO online analysing device. Power supply (24 VDC) is connected via White (V+) and Brown (V-) wires. Analogue outputs for humidity (4-20 mA) and optional temperature (4-20 mA) are connected via Blue (Humidity) and Grey (Temperature) wires. A Purple wire is for potential equalization GND. This diagram shows connections to an evaluation unit (e.g., PLC).
4.9 Wiring diagram option 100 - 240 VAC (art.no. 12215)
This wiring diagram details the connections for the BLO online analysing device with the 100-240 VAC power supply option. It shows connections for AC power input (L, N, PE) and Ground (0 VDC). Analogue outputs for humidity (4-20 mA) and optional temperature (4-20 mA) are connected via Blue (Humidity) and Grey (Temperature) wires. A Purple wire is for potential equalization GND. Connections are shown to an evaluation unit (e.g., PLC).
5. Using the device - Basics
5.1 Selecting the calibration curve
The device must be in the product selection menu to select a calibration curve.
- Press the [Up] or [Down] button to cycle through calibration curves.
- Alternatively, press and hold the [Up] or [Down] button for 3 seconds to open the calibration curve overview.
- Use the arrow keys to move between curves.
- Keep a key pressed to scroll through types.
- Confirm your selection by pressing [Enter].
The selected calibration curve will be displayed at the top of the screen.
5.2 Taking a measurement
To obtain current measuring values, the device must be in the measuring window.
6. Calibration curves
The following table lists available calibration curves, materials, measuring ranges, and analog output scaling:
| Calibration curve | Material | Measuring range | Scaling Analog output |
| 625 Pellets | Wood pellets with a bulk density of 625 kg/m³ | 2 - 20% | 0 to 20% |
| 640 Pellets | Wood pellets with a bulk density of 640 kg/m³ | 2 - 20% | 0 to 20% |
| 655 Pellets | Wood pellets with a bulk density of 655 kg/m³ | 2 - 20% | 0 to 20% |
| 670 Pellets | Wood pellets with a bulk density of 670 kg/m³ | 2 - 20% | 0 to 20% |
| 685 Pellets | Wood pellets with a bulk density of 685 kg/m³ | 2 - 20% | 0 to 20% |
| 1 Sawdust | Sawdust with very high atro bulk density | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 2 Sawdust | Sawdust with high atro bulk density | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| Sawdust | Sawdust with medium atro bulk density | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 4 Sawdust | Sawdust with low atro bulk density | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 5 Sawdust | Sawdust with very low atro bulk density | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| -1 Woodchips | Fine wood chips with very high atro bulk density (fine and heavy hardwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 0 Woodchips | Wood chips with very high atro bulk density (heavy hardwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 1 Woodchips | Wood chips with high atro bulk density (hardwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 2 Woodchips | Wood chips with medium atro bulk density (hardwood/softwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 3 Woodchips | Wood chips with medium atro bulk density (hardwood/softwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 4 Woodchips | Wood chips with low bulk atro density (softwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 5 Woodchips | Wood chips with very low atro bulk density (light softwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
| 6 Woodchips | Coarse wood chips with very low atro bulk density (coarse and light softwood) | 2 - 60% | 0 to 80% |
Reference: 0% = 4mA, 60% = 20mA
! Only for testing the moisture meter !
! Only for testing the analogue output !
6.1 Selection of calibration curve for wood chips
The choice of calibration curve for wood chips depends on atro bulk density, wood type (hardwood, softwood), chip size, and fine fraction content. For uncertain cases, a reference measurement by kiln-drying (according to EN ISO 18134-2) is recommended. Schaller Messtechnik GmbH offers assistance; send a picture of your wood chips with a measuring tape to support@schaller-gmbh.at for a recommendation.
6.2 How moisture content is defined
The device measures and displays the material's moisture content relative to the material's overall mass:
- Mn: Mass of the sample with average moisture content
- Mt: Mass of the sample with zero moisture content
- %WG: Moisture content (in accordance with EN ISO 18134-2)
7. Checking the device's status
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Status' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
The display will show the status indicator 'humimeter' and provide information on:
- 1 Serial number
- 2 Software version
- 3 Battery status
- 4 Memory status
Confirm by pressing [Enter]. Press [Back] to leave the main menu.
8. Configuring the device
8.1 Selecting a language
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'Language' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Navigate to the required language using [Up]/[Down] and confirm with [Enter].
The settings are saved. Press [Back] to leave the Options menu, and [Back] again to leave the main menu.
8.2 Activating options
Some options must be activated first.
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'Unlock' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
The display will show a password input screen. On delivery, the four-digit password is the device's serial number.
Inputting numbers: Press and hold [Enter] to quickly scroll to the required number, then press [Enter] for 3 seconds or press [Enter] again to confirm.
Moving back: Press [Change input level] to switch input levels. Press [Back] to move back.
Confirm the four-digit password by pressing [Enter]. The settings are saved. Press [Back] to leave the Options menu, and [Back] again to leave the main menu.
The options C/F, Averaging, BL On Time, Material calibration, Password, Reset are now activated.
8.3 Deactivating options
The activated options (C/F, Averaging, BL On Time, Material calibration, Password, Reset) are deactivated again upon restarting the device.
8.4 Selecting °C/°F
All options must be activated (see "8.2 Activating options").
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select '°C/°F' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Navigate to the required temperature scale (Celsius or Fahrenheit) using [Up]/[Down] and confirm with [Enter].
The setting is saved. Press [Back] to leave the Options menu, and [Back] again to leave the main menu.
8.5 Setting the averaging time
All options must be activated (see "8.2 Activating options").
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'Averaging' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Navigate to the desired time period for arithmetic average calculation (90 seconds, 45 seconds, 20 seconds, 7 seconds, 5 seconds) using [Up]/[Down] and confirm with [Enter].
The setting is saved. Press [Back] to leave the Options menu, and [Back] again to leave the main menu.
8.6 Configuring the display illumination time
All options must be activated (see "8.2 Activating options").
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'BL On Time' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Navigate to the required setting: turned off (0 Off) or turned on (1 On) using [Up]/[Down] and confirm with [Enter].
The setting is saved. Press [Back] to leave the Options menu, and [Back] again to leave the main menu.
8.7 Configuring the material calibration function
The material calibration function is described in a separate operating manual.
8.8 Changing the password
All options must be activated (see "8.2 Activating options").
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'Password' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
The display will show the current password.
Overwrite the current password: Press and hold [Enter] to quickly scroll to the required number, then press [Enter] for 3 seconds or press [Enter] to confirm the selected number.
Moving back: Press [Change input level] to switch input levels. Press [Back] to move back.
Confirm the new four-digit password by pressing [Enter]. The setting is saved. Press [Back] to leave the Options menu, and [Back] again to leave the main menu.
8.9 Resetting the device to its factory settings
All options must be activated (see "8.2 Activating options").
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'Reset' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
The display will show the message "Reset?" Confirm by pressing [Enter].
The device will be reset to its factory settings. All personal settings will be lost. The display will show the status indicator 'humimeter'. Resetting the device does not affect saved measuring values.
9. Cleaning and maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure a long service life and good condition of the device.
9.1 Care instructions
- The moisture transmitter must be adjusted every four weeks.
- Do not immerse the sensor in water.
- Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures.
- Do not bend the sensor cable excessively, as this can cause damage.
- Protect the device from strong mechanical shocks and loads.
9.2 Cleaning the device
Sensor surface: Clean the sensor surface with a cloth and cleaning alcohol.
9.3 Adjusting the moisture transmitter
The moisture transmitter requires adjustment after installation and every four weeks during operation. Ensure the transmitter is powered on for at least 30 minutes and that no material is near the white sensor surface.
- Press [Enter] twice or hold [Enter] for 2 seconds.
- Select 'Options' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
- Select 'Adjust' by pressing [Up]/[Down] and confirming with [Enter].
The display will show "Adjust?". Ensure no material is near the white sensor surface and the sensor temperature is similar to measurement conditions. Confirm by pressing [Enter].
The display will show a progress bar that runs upwards. This process takes a few seconds. Once completed, the display returns to the Options menu. Press [Back] and then [Back] again to leave the Options and main menus.
9.4 Replacing the protective plate
- Loosen the eight outer countersunk screws M3 with hexalobular socket.
- Remove the stainless steel frame.
- Loosen the five M3 countersunk screws of the protective plate with hexagon socket.
- Remove the protective plate from the sensor. The protective plate may be slightly glued; use a tool for removal.
- Position the new protective plate in place.
- Fasten the protective plate with the five M3 countersunk screws with hexagon socket.
- Replace the stainless steel frame and secure it with the eight M3 countersunk screws with hexagon socket.
10. Faults
If the listed measures do not resolve faults, or if unlisted faults occur, please contact Schaller Messtechnik GmbH.
| Fault | Cause | Remedy |
| Measuring error / Incorrect adjustment (exclamation mark on display persists) | The temperature of the material being measured is too low (< 0 °C) or too high (> +70 °C). | Ensure the material temperature is between 0 °C and +70 °C. |
| Measurement error due to too short temperature adjustment time | Allow the device to adjust to the surroundings. | |
| Frozen material or material mixed with snow | The material must not be frozen or mixed with snow. | |
| Accuracy decreases significantly (Mouldy or rain wet material) | Only measure dry, not mouldy material. | |
| Accuracy decreases significantly (Air value being displayed) | If there is no material above the sensor, the air value (200 %) will be displayed. | |
| Uneven pressure of the material | Ensure that the material applies even pressure onto the sensor. | |
| Polluted sensor | Clean the metal sensor plates (see "9.2 Cleaning the device"). | |
| Conductive material on the sensor plates | Ensure there is no contact of any conductive material with the sensor plates. | |
| The sensor plug is not connected correctly | Ensure the sensor plug is connected properly. | |
| There is an object/material in the vicinity of the white sensor surface (during calibration) | Remove any objects/materials in the vicinity of the white sensor surface. |
11. Storage and disposal
11.1 Storing the device
- Avoid mechanical shocks/loads.
- Storage temperature: -20 °C to +60 °C.
11.2 Disposing of the device
Devices marked with the WEEE symbol are subject to Directive 2012/19/EU. Outside the EU, observe national disposal regulations. Electronic devices must not be disposed of as domestic waste; use appropriate collection systems.
12. Device information
12.1 EC declaration of conformity
Manufacturer: Schaller Messtechnik GmbH, Max-Schaller-Straße 99, A - 8181 St. Ruprecht
Product designation: humimeter
Type designation: BLO ; BLO inkl. BLO-LC, BLO-LW
Product description: Measuring device for determining the water content in biomass.
The product conforms to the following European directives:
- EMC Directive 2014/30/EU
- RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU
- Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
Conformity is proven by compliance with the following standards:
- EN 61326-1:2013 (Electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – EMC requirements)
- EN IEC 63000:2019-05 (Technical documentation for the assessment of electrical and electronic products with respect to the restriction of hazardous substances)
- EN ISO 12100:2011 / EN ISO 12100:2013 (Safety of machinery – General principles for design – Risk assessment and risk reduction)
A complete documentation with the original operating manual is available for this product. This declaration of conformity loses its validity in case of changes not specified by the manufacturer.
St. Ruprecht a.d. Raab, 31.07.2022
Bernhard Maunz
Legal binding signature of the issuer
Declaration of Conformity (Great Britain):
Manufacturer: Schaller Messtechnik GmbH, Max-Schaller-Straße 99, A - 8181 St. Ruprecht
Product designation: humimeter
Type designation: BLO ; BLO inkl. BLO-LC, BLO-LW
Product description: Measuring device for determining the water content in biomass.
The product conforms to the following directives:
- Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 (Great Britain)
- RoHS-Directive 2011/65/EU (Restriction of hazardous substances)
- Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 (Great Britain)
Conformity is proven by compliance with the following standards:
- EN 61326-1:2013 (Electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – EMC requirements)
- EN IEC 63000:2019-05 (Technical documentation for the assessment of electrical and electronic products with respect to the restriction of hazardous substances)
- EN ISO 12100:2011 / EN ISO 12100:2013 (Safety of machinery – General principles for design – Risk assessment and risk reduction)
A complete documentation with the original operating manual is available for this product. This declaration of conformity loses its validity in case of changes not agreed upon with the manufacturer.
St. Ruprecht a.d. Raab, 31.07.2022
Bernhard Maunz
Legal binding signature of the issuer
12.2 Technical data
| Parameter | Specification |
| Measuring range moisture content | 2 % to 60 % (calibration curve dependent) |
| Measuring range temperature | -10 °C to +70 °C |
| Material temperature | 0 °C to +70 °C |
| Operating temperature BLO | 0 °C to +50 °C |
| Measuring depth | 200 mm |
| Outputs | Moisture content (4 - 20 mA) - Scaling (0% to 60% Sawdust, Woodchips) - Scaling (0% to 20% Pellets) Temperature (4 - 20 mA) (optional) - Scaling (-10 °C to +70 °C) |
| Working resistance | < 500 Ohm (UB 24 V) |
| Temperature compensation | Automatic |
| Power supply | 24 VDC (18 to 29 VDC) (optional 100 - 240 VAC) |
| Current consumption | 100 mA (without output) |
| Electrical connection | Connecting cable 1.9 m |
| Menu languages | English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Czech, Polish, Russian, International |
| Display | 128 x 64 illuminated matrix display |
| Aluminium housing dimensions | 250 x 185 x 75 mm (without cable) |
| Aluminium housing weight | 1.100 g (without cable) |
| Aluminium housing IP rating | IP 54 |
| Sensor dimensions | 230 x 160 x 62,5 mm (without cable) |
| Sensor weight | 2730 g (without cable) |
| Sensor IP rating | IP 54 |
12.3 Technical drawing universal sensor
A technical drawing of the universal sensor is provided, illustrating its physical dimensions and construction.
Schaller Messtechnik develops, produces, and sells professional moisture meters and turnkey solutions.
Schaller Messtechnik GmbH
Max-Schaller-Straße 99, A - 8181 St. Ruprecht an der Raab
Tel +43 (0)3178 - 28899 , Fax +43 (0)3178 - 28899 - 901
info@humimeter.com, www.humimeter.com
