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.

Stock Up on Laboratory Supplies | from Cole-Parmer Blog

Now is the time to stock up on laboratory supplies such as labware, plasticware, glassware, and more. During the course of the year, you may break a glass cylinder or use the wrong cleanser on your stainless steel bowls. It may be time to inspect your lab supplies to determine what you need to replace or replenish with your year-end budget dollars.

Guidance on Cleaning, Handling, and Storage

When handling and storing glassware, rinse and wash pipettes, cylinders, and burettes carefully, preventing the tips from hitting the sink or water tap. Store your glassware in specially designed racks. Avoid breakage by keeping pieces separated.

Clean your stainless steel items frequently to avoid build-up of hard stubborn stains. To clean stainless steel use alkaline, alkaline chlorinated, or non-chloride containing cleaners at the recommended strength. Avoid cleaners containing quaternary salts as they can attack stainless steel and cause pitting and rusting. Never use hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid) on stainless steel.

Washing plastics with a mild detergent is sufficient for most general applications. Most plastics (PPCO, PP, PMP, LDPE, and HDPE) have nonwetting surfaces that resist attack and are easy to clean. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on any plastic labware. Do not use strong alkaline cleaning agents with polycarbonate (PC).

Checking Your Supply

Here’s a checklist of items that you may need to re-order:

Containers
Bottles
Scoops
Beakers
Cylinders
Vials
Crucibles
Funnels
Stainless steel bowls
Petri Dishes
Trays
Drying Racks
Dippers

For a limited time, get 15% or more off these consumables and chemicals.

Stock Up on Laboratory Supplies

Be the first to comment on "Stock Up on Laboratory Supplies"

Leave a comment Cancel reply