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.

Reclaiming Your Budget with Reconditioned Instruments (Part 2)

Managers can control spending by assessing what “steals & deals” are available in each of these options:

Reconditioned. Reconditioning involves replacing parts and fully testing the instrument to ensure its dependable performance. The item may have been returned or slightly used and then refurbished to the original manufacturer’s specifications. This category carries the most substantial savings and includes a three-month warranty.
“Like New.” These items are nearly the same as brand new except they have a surface blemish. This slight cosmetic defect keeps them from being sold as new, yet their functionality is just as effective. Because they are nearly new, these products carry a full manufacturers’ warranty. “Like new” products offer a discount over the full purchase price but not as much savings as reconditioned items.

Shop reconditioned or “like new” equipment like any other—by researching which are the most reliable brands and what functionality is necessary for a given application. The most compelling difference from new products will likely be the price. In some cases, newer technology may edge out a previous model. Yet, the latter may remain a fully acceptable, fully functional instrument that is exactly the right solution.

Bottom Line

Financial writers trumpet the value found in reconditioned and “like new” products and urge consumers to research these possibilities. While at times it makes sense to buy new, other options may be overlooked simply because they don’t come to mind. The equipment needs to be ordered and the easiest route is to buy new.

Now, it is just as easy to scan the web site for reconditioned equipment. Like the consumer that lands the big-screen television at an amazing price, managers can get the instruments they need—with budget room to spare.

See Steals and Deals for our full selection of reconditioned and “like new” merchandise.

Reclaiming Your Budget with Reconditioned Instruments (Part 2)

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