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 Equipment for Immunochemistry Research

Immunochemistry studies the immune system, its reactions, and the components that comprise the system. Two subcategories of immunochemistry are:

ThermalSeal™ Film for Thermal Cycling, Transparent Polyester, for Real-Time PCR

Immunohistochemistry, which concentrates on the binding of antibodies to antigens within tissue samples to label epitopes of interest.
Immunocytochemistry, which utilizes antibodies to target antigens and epitopes of interest on cells that have most of their extracellular matrix removed.

Equipment and Supplies You May Need for Immunochemistry Research: A Checklist

Cell Imaging Products include microscopes, microplate readers, colony counters, and photometers
Cell Research Equipment for immunochemistry including filters, glove boxes, storage products, and centrifugal concentrators
Cell and Tissue Culture Plates, Flasks, Dishes, and Vessels including glass and plasticware for cell culture including dishes, culture tubes, flasks, roller bottles, and multi-well plates
Dispensing Products such as pipettes, pipettors, glass and disposable syringes, and burettes
Electrophoresis Products may include horizontal and vertical systems, accessories, power supplies, reagents, and gel staining/drying boxes
General Laboratory Equipment such as water baths, water purification, ultrasonic cleaners, stirrers, mixers, and balances
General Labware refers to a variety of glass, plastic, stainless steel, and vials for sample collection and storage
Microplate Accessories and Equipment for use with microplates including films, dispensing systems, readers, shakers, and washers
PCR chambers
Safety Products for spill management, as well as storage equipment, safety glasses, shields, and gloves

Lab Equipment for Immunochemistry Research

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