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.

Laboratory Equipment: A Guide to Mixer Selection

When choosing laboratory equipment such as a mixer, several variables should be considered specific to your application. For mixers, gather the follow information:

Stir-Pak High-speed, Low-Torque Mixer System (23-2300rpm, 115 VAC)

What container capacity do you need?
What liquid viscosity?
What are your torque requirements?
What are your horsepower requirements?
What rotational speed or RPM do you need? What diameter for the mixing propeller?
What are your requirements for duty cycle?
What will be the source of your power supply?

Laboratory Mixers are available with permanent magnet, universal, or air-drive motors. Choose different mixer mounts for mounting on tanks or stands. A variety of impellers and paddles lend versatility to the mixer you select.

Industrial Mixers are available with electric- or air-driven motors for up to 1-hp. Fixed- or variable-speed and direct- or gear-driven options are available.

Specialty Mixers include:

Sanitary Mixers for all applications requiring extra clean processes.

Bulk-Container Mixers mount atop tote containers and mix liquids that are in long- or short-term storage.

Handheld Mixers for mixing thin or heavy liquids in open or closed containers.

Static Mixers are installed inline and mix fluids as you pump them through a pipeline. The fluid moves through the mixer in an alternating clockwise/counterclockwise motion to ensure a homogeneous product. They are virtually maintenance free and need no spare parts.

Our Application Specialists can assist you in choosing the right impellers for optimum mixing. View our mixer selection.

Laboratory Equipment: A Guide to Mixer Selection

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