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.

Clean Water Rule Spotlights Water Quality

Clean, reliable water quality is necessary for our health, ecosystem, and economy in terms of manufacturing, farming, and other key drivers. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), about 117 million Americans, or one in three people, get drinking water from streams lacking clear protection.

That is, before the Clean Water Rule. The EPA and the U.S. Army finalized the Clean Water Rule last week to clearly protect the streams and wetlands that form the foundation of the nation’s water resources from pollution and degradation. The Clean Water Rule:

Clearly defines and protects tributaries that impact the health of downstream waters
Provides certainty in how far safeguards extend to nearby waters
Protects the nation’s regional water treasures
Focuses on streams, not ditches
Maintains the status of waters within Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems.
Reduces the use of case-specific analysis of waters

Many areas of the country get 91-100% of their drinking water from seasonal, rain-dependent or headwater streams. The Clean Water Rule clearly protects streams like these. from seasonal, rain-dependent or headwater streams. The Clean Water Rule protects streams like these.

In water quality, testing water is necessary to determine if it is free of contaminants. From pH meters to metals analysis equipment, manufacturers, environmental labs, water and wastewater facilities, and others rely on accurate measurement instruments and supplies to maintain their standards.

View our selection of pH meters and metals analysis equipment.

Clean Water Rule Spotlights Water Quality

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