Why are analytical balances important in a laboratory?
Analytical balances are essential equipment for any laboratory. Their accuracy can be impacted by a few factors, including the setting in which they are installed and how they are managed. Keep reading to learn more about analytical balances in the laboratory.
Five Approaches for Using Analytical Balances
Here are five practices for using analytical balances:
Regular Calibration
Proper calibration assists your scale in providing consistent and correct weights. It’s essential to calibrate the scale at the setting where it will be used. If you have to move the scale, you will need to calibrate it there.
Choose an Ideal Environment
In addition, environmental factors like humidity, air pressure, and temperature can impact the accuracy of the analytical balances. Ideally, these scales would be placed where all these factors stay consistent. Moreover, maintain the balance in a vibration-free area to prevent volatile changes in the readings.
Also, you can use a vibration-absorbing weighing table. These scales are located out of direct sunlight and away from HVAC vents, as the airflow and temperature can impact the scale.
Reduce Mistakes from Lab Samples
Furthermore, it’s vital to manage each sample appropriately to receive an accurate weight when using the analytical balances. Also, you can reduce the impact of weighing results by using an ionizer that can balance the electrostatic charge for samples like glass or plastic.
Additionally, minimize air currents inside the enclosure by checking that the samples are at room temperature. Another best practice is loading the sample on the scale’s center will help accomplish additional accurate measurements. Lastly, determine whether these analytical balances can weigh the needed increments.
Avoid An Incorrect Reading
Handling the sample correctly will help to ensure accurate measurements of the sample. To avoid an incorrect reading, use gloves or pan holders while holding the test weights and put the sample on the scale with a tweezer.
Maintain Clean Scales
Lastly, keep the analytical balances clean of dirt or debris that can impact the accuracy and overall function of the balance. Typically, a damp cloth with a gentle soap will be sufficient to polish the scale. So, don’t use abrasive cleaning chemicals.
Also, use a soft brush to eliminate loose samples stuck to the analytical balances. If the balances are unplugged during cleaning, let them warm up before handling them again.
CONTACT THE SCALE PEOPLE FOR WEIGHING EQUIPMENT AND CALIBRATION SERVICES!
Since 1956, The Scale People have earned a reputation as the finest service provider for calibration and repairs of weighing equipment in the mid-Atlantic area. Our sales team can help work with you to find the best weighing equipment for your application. We currently have offices in Columbia, MD, and Newport News, VA, but we offer our services nationwide. Over the years, we have built up a long list of satisfied clients from a wide variety of industries, including pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and government manufacturing. We are a fully ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited service company offering calibration for balances, scales, dynamometers, force measurement, test weights pipettes, and more. All of our services have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We’re only a phone call away at +1 (800) 451-9593. To learn more about what we do, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.