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.

Six Reasons To Use Centrifugal Pumps

Posted By: Cole-Parmer Blog Team April 20, 2015

Centrifugal pumps offer excellent pulseless flow. These electric-driven pumps can handle continuous fluid transfer at high flow rates and low pressure. The simple design of the pump means installation is quick, maintenance is low, and repairs are easy.

With these advantages, a centrifugal pump is a top choice for:

Cooling tower transfer
Feed pumps for spraying systems
Filtration of corrosives, caustics, dyes, soaps, brines, and other cleaning fluids
Filling/draining
Line cleaning/irrigation
Pilot plant processing

These pumps are also available in a range of materials. Choose from magnetic drive or mechanically coupled centrifugal pumps. Keep in mind the pumps should not be run dry.

1 Comment on "Six Reasons To Use Centrifugal Pumps"

Jesse Ford | January 6, 2020 at 1:54 pm | Reply

Thanks for mentioning that electric-driven pumps provide continuous high flow rates and low pressure. I think it’s a good idea to install centrifugal pumps at large industrial operations because of filtration of corrosives, filling or draining, and or line cleaning and irrigation. It also seems like a good investment to choose the best material for the machinery depending on what type of application it’s going to be used for.

1 Comment on "Six Reasons To Use Centrifugal Pumps"

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