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.

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It’s the season of savings! Get reduced prices on that laboratory and process equipment you’ve been waiting to buy. Now is the time—and here’s a sampling of the products available at budget-enhancing prices:

Ohaus^® Pioneer Toploading Balance is a great choice for routine weighing for laboratory, industrial, and academic uses. Adjustable zero tracking works well for slow-filling applications. Balance sensitivity is also adjustable to handle environmental interference or respond to application needs.

53l Benchtop Heated Shaking Incubator

53l Benchtop Heated Shaking Incubator (120v 50/60hz) provides dual-action with both orbital and reciprocating motions. Its fan circulation delivers exceptional temperature uniformity. Maintenance-free operation with brushless DC motor. (shown right)

Sight Flow Indicator lets you view your flow though a clear plastic housing. This low-cost device allows for 360° viewing of the spinning rotor for easy flow indication.

Megger^® MIT1525 Insulation Resistance Tester makes sure transmission and distribution equipment continue to operate—without outages or downtime. Test insulation on power MV and HV transformers, current transformers, cables, motors and generators, circuit breakers and more.

Check ColeParmer.com for other reduced-price products.

Take Advantage of Octoberfest Savings

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