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.

Blending Samples with Laboratory Shakers

Laboratory shakers blend samples that have been placed inside tubes and flasks. Precision shaking motion is essential for many lab applications, but not all shakers perform the same task. The most commonly used orbital shaker provides a smooth continuous motion for uniform mixing. For a side-to-side motion with simple agitation, choose a reciprocating shaker or dual-action shaker. Delicate samples require a rotating motion. If you want to duplicate the effect of hand mixing, select the wrist-action shaker. The rocking tool creates a gentle uniform mixing with its see-saw motion. We have a wide variety of shakers to provide you with the exact shaking motion your application requires.

Getting a precise shaking motion helps you maximize productivity. Essentially, shakers feature five types of motions, including:

Cole-Parmer® Economical Orbital Shaker

Rotating for delicate samples
Rocking for gentle mixing with a see-saw motion
Dual-action for a side-to-side motion with simple agitation
Orbital, the most common, offers a smooth continuous motion
Wrist action simulates the effect of hand mixing

To get the performance you need, determine the weight you on the shaker, the accuracy, speed, and temperature range needed, and any other variables that may influence your lab operation. If you have limited space, this should be a consideration. Of course, your budget may indicate whether a more sophisticated model is an option. Digital incubating/refrigerating shakers or heated incubating shakers have features that ensure excellent temperature uniformity but also require a larger investment.

Need help selecting the shaker that’s right for you? Call our product support specialist at 1-800-323-4340.

Blending Samples with Laboratory Shakers

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