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.

Lab Supplies: Questions to Ask When You Are Selecting Labware

The most basic of lab supplies may be labware—available in multiple sizes, materials, and colors—from beakers to sample bottles to Petri dishes. Yet all are not alike and you can invest your dollars best when you ask the following questions:

Sterile Petri Dishes

What are you using the labware for?
What scale of measurement are you operating in (gallons or milliliters)?
What level of accuracy do you need?
What chemicals will the labware be exposed to? (both the chemicals being handled and also chemicals in the environment)
What other environmental parameters will the labware be exposed to? (Specifically, pressure or temperature)
Who will be handling it?
Will you have sterility needs? Does it need to be pre-sterilized? Will it be sterilized after purchase and by what method?

Four common sterilization techniques

Autoclave: Exposing an item to pressure and heat for a specific time

Ethylene Oxide: Exposing item to ethylene oxide gas for a specific time

Dry Heat: Exposing item to heat for an extended period of time

Chemical Disinfectants: Exposing the item to specific disinfectants such as formalin or quaternary ammonium compounds

Common Specifications

Transparency/Translucency: Transparency is the ability to clearly see through the material of construction and is used when the contents of the labware need viewing. Translucency is the ability for light to pass through the material and is necessary when the level of the contents needs viewing but the actual contents do not

Material of Construction determines the chemical compatibility, maximum and minimum use temperature, available sterilization methods, and transparency of the labware

Dimensions of the containers

View a selection of labware.

Lab Supplies: Questions to Ask When You Are Selecting Labware

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