What is the difference between an analytical balance and a precision balance?

An analytical balance provides readability of 0.1 mg or better, while a precision balance typically reads to 0.001 g or 0.01 g. Analytical balances include draft shields and are designed for highly sensitive measurements. Precision balances handle larger samples and are less affected by environmental conditions.

What readability do I need for my lab application?

You need a readability that is at least one-tenth of your smallest sample weight or required measurement increment. For example, measuring 100 mg samples may require 0.01 mg readability, while gram-level work may only need 0.01 g. Selecting higher readability than necessary increases cost without improving results.

Do lab balances need to be calibrated?

Yes, all lab balances require regular calibration to maintain accuracy. Calibration ensures measurements remain traceable to certified standards. Internal calibration simplifies this process by automating adjustments, while external calibration requires manual verification with certified weights. In regulated environments, calibration records must be documented and retained.

What is the difference between readability and repeatability?

Readability is the smallest increment of weight a balance will display. Repeatability is the degree of agreement between multiple measurements of the same mass, on the same balance, under the same conditions.

What is the best way to clean my balance to ensure accurate readings?

Inspect and clean before each use. A flannel cloth or soft brush works well for dusting and light cleaning. Use a non-abrasive cleaner for light spills, and a dry flannel cloth for glass parts. Set a regular maintenance schedule for deep cleaning to ensure optimal performance and instrument longevity.

Can vibration affect the accuracy of my balance?

Yes — even slight vibration from a heavy footstep can affect accuracy. Place the balance on a sturdy benchtop away from high-traffic areas such as hallways, elevators, stairways, and doors. If that placement is not possible, an anti-vibration table should be considered.

5 Ways to Enhance the Environmental Sample Process

There’s more to collecting environmental samples than it seems. From the type of container to what should (or should not) be added to how to store it—all can determine if what you analyze is an accurate measure of what’s in the sample.

Once the sample bottle is clean enough for use, you must select the proper material to use. Different parameters have different requirements.

Most organic parameters must be collected in glass while inorganic parameters can use plastics or fluoropolymers as well. Because not all plastics have the same properties or inherent background levels, you are typically limited to polypropylene, LDPE, or polyethylene. Bacteria samples are generally limited to materials that can be sterilized. Also, you may have requirements concerning fluorescence or clarity depending on the analytical method you use.

Using the most efficient laboratory supplies can make your process easier. Here are products to assist in sample collection, preparation, and storage:

Environmental Bottles: a full selection of certified, pre-cleaned bottles, glass bottles, cylindrical options, and more
Disposable BOD Bottles: Never wash a bottle again—these are lightweight, precleaned, and EPA-approved
ProWeigh^® Filters: No prep needed—get improved accuracy and quicker reporting
FlipMate^® Filtration Systems: Fast and easy—filter samples in second
Digestion Cups: For HotBlock^® metals digestion—graduated to dilute, digest, and store in one vessel

View our selection of efficiency-enhancing products for the environmental lab.

5 Ways to Enhance the Environmental Sample Process

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