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.

6 Reasons to Use Custom Cut Tubing | from Cole-Parmer Blog

Sometimes it’s good sense to send tasks out so you don’t waste valuable time. Cutting tubing is one of those tasks. Get exactly what you need, ready for your next tubing changeover. You decide the quantity and lengths and it arrives custom-cut to your specifications.

Why is this option worthwhile?

Eliminate tedious manual cutting. Don’t waste considerable time cutting long lengths of tubing into smaller segments. Order tubing cut to the lengths you need—so you have more time to focus on research and results.
No need for expensive cutting equipment. Save your investment. No maintenance, replacement parts, or training required. Also, no side, no saws, knives, scissors, blades, or bandages needed either.
Minimize waste. More accurate lengths mean less waste. Tubing lengths are guaranteed to meet your specifications for accuracy.
Get samples before you order. Test your custom-cut tubing in your application first. Your order is only complete when you have approved the samples.
Packaged per your instructions. Tubing lengths can be bulk, bagged, or packaged per your requirements. One thousand segments per bag or just five—double-bagged, in a box…. you decide.
Efficiency—did we mention no manual labor? Your highly paid associates are NOT spending time cutting tubing. Instead, they can concentrate on conducting research, building products, or serving customers.

1 Comment on "6 Reasons to Use Custom Cut Tubing"

Tesley Ransom | November 21, 2016 at 8:42 am | Reply

Thanks Beth for describing all 6 reasons perfectly. I think all of these 6 reasons are convincing enough for buyers to choose custom cut tubing. To get proper shape tube, I prefer going with custom cut tubing, because it flexible.

1 Comment on "6 Reasons to Use Custom Cut Tubing"

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