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.

3 Reasons to Get Custom-Blended Chemicals

Eliminate hours from your research or production process by ordering custom-blended chemicals, especially for standard formulations.
Here are three reasons why it makes sense for clinical, industrial, and research applications:

Save more time. Your chemists and lab staff can funnel their recaptured hours into more productive tasks, making your processes more efficient.
Get consistent quality. You get consistency guaranteed from batch to batch when chemicals are custom-blended.
Enhance safety. You improve safety in your facility by reducing the risk of chemical spills that can happen when you are mixing your own chemicals.

Cole-Parmer can formulate and blend any combination of chemicals to your specifications—whether you require a simple dilution or multiple chemicals in one solution. We can also supply custom-blended chemicals in a specified container. To ensure quality, our custom-blended chemicals arrive at your facility with a Certificate of Analysis.

Contact our Application Specialists to learn more.

3 Reasons to Get Custom-Blended Chemicals

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