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.

Picnic Ahead: What's Your Grilling Temperature?

The July 4 holiday weekend is prime time for outdoor grilling.

Do you have your thermometer ready? Hamburgers, steaks, hot dogs, chicken, corn on the cob—a feast of picnic delights awaits. Yet, not so delightful if your dish is undercooked. Enjoy that meal and keep food safe by checking the temperature of it before serving.

Infrared thermometers

Food infrared thermometers measure temperatures up to 626 °F (330 C) for pathogen reduction. You can measure and log food temperatures during cooking, serving, cooling, storage, transport, and reheating to increase quality and consistency. As a noncontact thermometer, you also eliminate the risk of cross-contamination. For some models, color alerts make it easy to see the temperature zone of the food you are testing is safe. Green lights indicate safe temperatures below 40 °F (4 °C) and above 140 °F (60 °C). Red light indicates the HACCP danger zone between 40 to 140 °F (4 to 60 °C).

Pocket thermometers

Pocket thermometers, some with anti-microbial plastic storage cases to inhibit the growth of pathogens, are another option.

Whichever option you choose, make sure you select a thermometer specified for food safety.

View our selection of food infrared thermometers and digital pocket thermometers

Hot off the Grill: Celebrating National BBQ Month

Picnic Ahead: What’s Your Grilling Temperature?

The July 4 holiday weekend is prime time for outdoor grilling.

Infrared thermometers

Pocket thermometers

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