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.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle | from Cole-Parmer Blog

In recognition of America Recycles day on Monday, November 15, Cole-Parmer encourages everyone to go green!

Cole-Parmer is rolling out new plans daily to provide environmentally friendly solutions for our customers. We have taken many steps to upgrade our warehouse with eco-friendly materials to reduce waste and conserve energy. Below are some of the improvements we put in place to help reduce our carbon footprint:

Eco-friendly Shipping Materials— Biodegradable SUPER 8® loosefill packing peanuts made from all
Biodegradable SUPER 8® loosefill packing peanuts

recycled materials—read more about our “green” packing peanuts
Eco-friendly Packaging— 100% recycled packaging paper, plastic pallets and pallet runners, edge protectors, and more.
Recycling—All qualifying packaging materials shipped
into our warehouse are reused or recycled
Reduced Energy Consumption—Cole-Parmer has installed
high-efficiency fluorescent lighting throughout our warehouse

Keep it growing! Recycle and reuse the packing materials—cardboard, paper tape, packing peanuts, bubble wrap, etc.—you receive in shipments. Together, doing this simple activity, we can work to create a cleaner and safer planet.

1 Comment on "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle"

Justin Nielson | November 29, 2010 at 11:23 pm | Reply

With global warming on the horizon, everyone should participate in recycling and conserving energy.

Recycling is particularly essential in the materials handling industry where shipments are a daily aspect of business. If you can still use packaging materials, don’t just throw them away. A little effort can go a long way.

Eco-friendly products are also a great way to satisfy our material needs without adding to the environmental damage and pollution.

Let’s all do our part and help save our planet!

1 Comment on "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle"

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