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.

Removing Fumes from your Laboratory | from Cole-Parmer Blog

From toxic gases to hazardous chemicals, if you work in a lab you handle a variety of materials. OSHA states that the fume hood is the primary control for protecting lab workers from flammable and/or toxic chemicals.

The fume hood captures and contains fumes. Types of fume hoods vary in how they operate. Balance enclosures may be ducted to the outside or connected to a HEPA and/or carbon filter to exhaust back into the laboratory. Ductless fume hoods pass contaminated air through a filter(s) before returning air to the room. These fume hoods are used in locations that do not have outside ventilation. Ducted fume hoods have ventilation to the outside and provide the most rigorous protection, especially for chemically dangerous fumes.

Extractor systems offer localized ventilation at the source of contamination. Extractor arms can be positioned to remove fumes or airborne particulates. These may vent to the outside or recirculate into the room through a filter. A specialty type of enclosure—the PCR enclosure—is designed for PCR experiments and shifts HEPA-filtered air downward. It also has a UV light that eliminates DNA and RNA contaminates.

OSHA’s Laboratory standard (29 CFR 1910.1450) requires that fume hoods be maintained and function properly when used. Also, appropriate eye protection and safety gloves are necessary when working in a fume hood.

View our selection of fume hoods>.

Removing Fumes from your Laboratory

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