How does a potato starch scale work?
Simple and precise determination of the starch content of potatoes
The quality of potatoes for consumption and processing depends largely on their starch content—a crucial factor for farmers, processors, and retailers. But how can this value be determined reliably and efficiently? This is where the potato starch scale comes into play—more specifically, the modern KSW-2 with the integrated WWA-1 evaluation device. In this blog post, we explain how the measurement works and what makes the technology so special.
The Basics: What does a potato starch scale measure?
A potato starch scale measures the starch content and dry matter of potatoes in a surprisingly simple way: by underwater weight . The physics behind it is simple: starchy potatoes are heavier than watery ones. By weighing them underwater, you can determine the starch content – without any chemical analysis or complex laboratory equipment.
Step by step: This is how the measurement with our KSW-2 works
The KSW-2 makes the entire measuring process particularly user-friendly. Here's how it works:
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Fill the water tank : The supplied 70-liter tank is filled about two-thirds full with water.
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Turn on the system : The WWA-1 display shows 0 g. If a different weight is displayed, reset the scale using the zero button.
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Attach basket : The empty stainless steel basket is attached and its weight is displayed.
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Tare : The tare button tares the basket – the weight is set to 0 g.
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Submerge basket underwater and save (F2): The scale now also takes buoyancy in water into account.
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Hang the basket upright and, if the display doesn't show 0g, tare again. (Drops on the basket)
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Add potatoes : Between 3 kg and 6 kg of potatoes go into the basket.
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Save potato weight (F1): The system remembers the exact weight.
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Immerse the basket in the water again : Now the WWA-1 directly displays the starch content in % as well as the dry matter – without conversion tables or formulas!
For subsequent measurements, you can proceed directly to step 3 as long as the same basket is used.
In the following video we show the exact process again:
What makes the KSW-2 special?
The potato starch scale KSW-2 combines traditional measuring methods with modern electronics:
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Immediate display of results : No calculations, no guessing – the matrix display shows the desired value directly.
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Flexibility in the amount of potatoes : You do not need an exactly weighed sample weight – anything between 3 and 6 kg is possible.
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Robust and mobile : High-quality materials such as stainless steel and aluminum, IP65 protection against dust and water, and battery operation with up to 48 hours of runtime make the scale ready for use anywhere - from the field to the warehouse.
Who is the potato starch scale suitable for?
The KSW-2 is designed for farmers, potato processors, and agricultural businesses who want to regularly check the quality of their potatoes—whether for sorting, pricing, or quality control. Thanks to its ease of use, it's ready for immediate use, even without prior technical knowledge.
Conclusion: Precision at the touch of a button
With the KSW-2, determining starch content has never been easier. The combination of physical principles and digital analysis ensures fast, precise, and reproducible results – a real work-saver for anyone working with potatoes.
Optimize your quality control – with precise starch analysis at the touch of a button.