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.

Green Fingers for Cole-Parmer UK Staff at the William Hobbayne Community Gardens

From our UK Office:

Based in the West London suburb of Hanwell, just a stone’s throw from Cole-Parmer’s UK office, resides The William Hobbayne Charity. In 1484, William gave a house and 22 acres of land to the parish to be used for the poor and needy. Since then, the charity has been making a difference to local people in need, hardship, or distress.

For example, The William Hobbayne Community Gardens project has transformed derelict land beside the Grand Union Canal. This overgrown and unused space has now become a thriving community garden offering local families without garden access the opportunity to grow their own fruit and vegetables.

To support the Community Gardens, Cole-Parmer staff worked on a four-day clearance project. Staff volunteered two to three hours to do tasks such as clearing and weeding flower beds, clearing the entrance, plots, and walkways as well as building benches, and improving the garden and surrounding spaces for the local community to utilize.

Future plans for this site include the creation of a pond and “bug runs” to encourage wild life and a community orchard.

For further details on Cole-Parmer UK Community Action Council activities contact Nosheen Aslam-Amir.

Green Fingers for Cole-Parmer UK Staff at the William Hobbayne Community Gardens

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