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.

Three Reasons to Use a Dehumidifier

TOPICS:dehumidifier

Posted By: Cole-Parmer Blog Team September 4, 2014

A dehumidifier enables workers in laboratories, offices, libraries, control rooms, universities, R&D, storage rooms, museums, and quality control areas to better control their environment.

Compact Digital Dehumidifier

Specifically, dehumidifiers:

Help regulate humidity levels
Protect documents, equipment, and critical instruments from moisture that will possibly damage them
Prevent the potential growth of mildew, mold, and bacteria which can flourish in excess moisture

A room dehumidifier can operate at room temperatures down to 36°F (2.2°C) for year-round use. Humidity levels can be set at 50%, 60%, or 70%. When constant dehumidification is required, a continuous operation mode overrides the humidity level settings. Portable units add convenience and many units run quietly and offer automatic shut-off capabilities.

View our selection of dehumidifiers and humidifiers.

4 Comments on "Three Reasons to Use a Dehumidifier"

John Smith | August 27, 2015 at 5:45 am | Reply

My working place, actually a lab room, which has many computers, now is quite humid. Which one is best for 30 sq.ft with electronics equipment? Thanks for great info.
- Beth Dumey | August 27, 2015 at 12:52 pm | Reply
  
  It really depends on your requested humidity levels. If you are using it continuously, you will need to have a floor drain so you could attach the drainage hose so you don’t have to manually dispose of the water. If you use it continuously and don’t have a drain, you would then have to manually dispense the water. If you forget and the bucket becomes full, the dehumidifier will automatically shut down.
  
  If you are using it continuously without a drain, I would recommend a larger capacity dehumidifier (such as 37701-21) as you won’t have to dispose of the water as much. If you have a drain than the 30 pint (37701-01) would work fine.
Origin Corp | February 8, 2016 at 5:12 am | Reply

Dehumidifiers are indeed very crucial in the houses in humid climate. These are especially beneficial to older people or very young kids preventing them to get encountered allergies or asthma. It was a clearly written blog with several main benefits of dehumidifiers. Keep it up.
Daniel | December 24, 2020 at 11:03 am | Reply

Listed essential reasons to have a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers are efficient gadgets in controlling indoor moisture. Choosing the right unit according to your needs such as pint size, drain type, noise level can work great to keep your space comfortable.

4 Comments on "Three Reasons to Use a Dehumidifier"

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