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.

Shield Your Eyes! How to Protect Your Sight

With a nod to January as National Eye Care month, we are devoting today’s blog to solutions that protect your eyes. If you are at risk of accidental exposure to corrosive or caustic materials, you may need to have an eyewash station nearby. Several options are available. Here are a few of our favorites:

Fend-all Personal Eyewash Wall Stations

Emergency eyewash stations hold one or two bottles of flushing solution and affix easily to any wall with peel-off self-adhesive backing or mounting screws (included). Eyewash bottles have smaller openings to provide extended flow. Sealed solution bottles have a 36-month shelf life. Expiration date is printed on each bottle.

Portable Eyewash

Goes anywhere to provide onsite emergency relief for eyes and face. Yellow, reinforced thermoplastic drench hose (8-ft) is designed to supply supplemental water to face and body. Stainless steel tank features tire filler valve and 0-100 psi air gauge. Pressure relief valve prevents accidental over-pressurization.

Bradley^® On-Site Portable Gravity-Fed Eyewash

The highly visible Bradley On-Site transparent polycarbonate yellow tank lets you view when it’s time to refill or clean. Refillable—mix one 8 oz. bottle of water preservative with seven gallons of potable water to prevent growth in tank for up to six months. Solution can be tested monthly or when protocol dictates. The removable tank is inverted onto pedestal, piercing a liner. Water flow is activated when arm is pulled down.

Disclaimer: Cole-Parmer products are not approved or intended for, and should not be used for medical, clinical, surgical or other patient-oriented applications.

2 Comments on "Shield Your Eyes! How to Protect Your Sight"

Justin Nielson | February 7, 2011 at 4:18 am | Reply

Those are very effective eye care products. Eyewash solutions aside, the best way to protect your eyes would be to do your best to shield your eyes from irritants or at least minimize your exposure to them by wearing a full face mask or shield. Absent an eyewash solution, the best alternative is clean, running water. It can help reduce any damage done until help arrives.
Dolphy | March 26, 2021 at 1:04 am | Reply

Eye wash station is the best way to protect our eyes. Thanks for the Post.

2 Comments on "Shield Your Eyes! How to Protect Your Sight"

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