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.

Types of Mixers for Your Application

When you need to purchase a mixer for your facility, review these four types of mixers to decide which would work best for you:

4 Types of Mixers for your Application

Laboratory mixers are capable of handling solutions with viscosities up to 150,000 cps, which is dependent on the torque, horsepower, and speed of the mixer. Select from different mixer mounts to use on tanks or stands. A variety of impellers and paddles also add versatility. These mixers are available with permanent magnet, universal, or air-drive motors.

Industrial mixers are used for mixing large quantities of materials with higher viscosities and torque requirements. With the right mixer and propeller, these industrial units can mix up to 1500 gallons (5700 liters) of material with a viscosity of 1000 cps. They have electric or air-driven motors for up to 1/2 hp. They are available in fixed- or variable-speed and direct- or gear-driven models.

Specialty mixers include sanitary mixers (designed for pharmaceutical, biotech, food and other applications where GMP requirements are standard), bulk-container mixers (mix liquids that are in long-or short-term storage), and handheld mixers (for mixing thin or heavy liquids).

Static in-line mixers allow you to mix fluids as you pump them through a pipe line. To ensure a uniform result, the fluid moves through the mixer in an alternating clockwise/counterclockwise motion. Static mixers are nearly maintenance free. Plus, they need no spare parts.

See our full selection of mixers and blenders

2 Comments on "Four Types of Mixers for Your Application"

Brayden Brade | September 29, 2017 at 8:21 am | Reply

That’s interesting that there are so many different types of industrial mixers. I’m trying to help my cousin source a mixer for his paint business. He makes custom paints for several contractors. Which type of mixer would be best for him?
- kadanko | September 29, 2017 at 9:43 am | Reply
  
  Hi Brayden:
  Thanks for your request. We will send your question to our technical experts and they will email you. In the meantime, if you want to speak to someone about your question, please call our technical experts at 1-800-323-4340.

4 Types of Mixers for your Application

2 Comments on "Four Types of Mixers for Your Application"

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