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.

UV Lamps and Rain Gauges. Technical Support Answers Your Questions.

Our Technical Support team gets thousands of questions a year about product selection, compliance, troubleshooting issues—and just about anything a customer can think up.

Here are a few of the answers we have for some of our common products:

VP Handheld Mini Ultraviolet UV Lamps

Q: I’m looking for a UV lamp that can help me tell non-organic and organic materials apart (in glue). Would this be a good choice?

A: A longwave 365 nm UV light lamp will aid in the detection of organic materials.

Q: Can it be used for fraud detection to check the authenticity of documents, passports?

A: A 365 nm wavelength is used for fraud detection of credit cards, documentation, and older currency. This lamp would emit at the appropriate wavelength, and would work for this specific operation.

Wireless Dual Display Rain Gauges

Q: Does this rain gauge measure rainfall intensity?

A: The gauge will not measure intensity, and will only measure total rainfall. The meter can read a current rainfall total, but time will also need to be noted supplemental to the device.

Do you have a question? Call our technical support team at 1-800-323-4340.

UV Lamps and Rain Gauges—Technical Support Answer Your Questions!

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