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.

All About Food: Visit Cole-Parmer at IFT, June 11-14, Booth #8046

Cole-Parmer IFT 2001 Gift Pack

Not only is June National Dairy Month, but one of the largest food shows in the industry begins in just a few days. The Cole-Parmer booth at IFT® in New Orleans will feature efficient new products for food scientists and processors:

The breakthrough picoSpin™ Benchtop NMR Spectrometer from Cole-Parmer is the world’s first miniature NMR spectrometer. The 45-MHz picoSpin spectrometer is affordable, portable, and easy to use.
The new Atago® Programmable Digital Refractometers with Touch Screen have a built-in thermomodule to ensure accuracy while also eliminating the need for a water bath circulator. Use this fully featured device to determine the refractive index of citrus, animal, or vegetable oils, and more. Take precise Brix measurements of fruit and concentrated juices, canned syrups, liquid sugars, and glucose with a Brix range of 0.00 to 100.00%.
The Oakton® Benchtop pH 700 Series Meters offer a compact footprint more than 40% smaller than similar benchtop meters―saving valuable space in the research lab. Visit the booth to see their oversized LCDs, with optimal visibility even at a distance. Instruments for food quality and safety testing will also be available, including viscometers, thermometers, and more.

What’s in it for you? Each day one raffle winner will receive a New Orleans Gift Pack valued at more than $200. The bags include a variety of “survive and thrive in New Orleans” items including a cooler, water bottle, gift certificate, and more. Register to win.

All About Food: Visit Cole-Parmer at IFT, June 11-14, Booth #8046

Be the first to comment on "All About Food: Visit Cole-Parmer at IFT, June 11-14, Booth #8046"

Leave a comment Cancel reply