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.

The Flu? Not You! Ways to Protect Yourself

Antiseptic Hand Cleanser

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu activity is picking up. In most years, flu activity peaks in January or February but can vary from year to year. With the winter months approaching, you can take precautions to protect yourself from the virus.

Hand sanitizers can kill bacteria and viruses within 15 seconds of contact. Keep our 64-oz Antiseptic Hand Cleanser nearby, even when soap and water aren’t available. It meets OSHA standards and contains aloe vera to prevent drying. Another option is the Bacdown® Gel No-Rinse Skin Sanitizer. This nondrying antiseptic skin cleanser includes gentle emollients to smooth and moisten skin. The Bacdown Gel reduces bacteria count on hands prior to gloving or entering aseptic environments.

Disposable respirators can provide a barrier from fluid penetration and the transfer of microorganisms. Our ONE-Fit™ Healthcare N95 Particulate Respirators provide 99.9% Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE) and offer 99.5% Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE), and 99.9% Viral Filtration Efficiency (VFE). They are designed for healthcare settings, such as emergency rooms and intensive care units and meet CDC guidelines for M Tuberculosis.

In addition to using safety products such as these, cover your coughs and sneezes with tissues, keep work surfaces (including telephones and computers) clean, and avoid using coworkers’ phones and computers to help prevent the spread of viruses.

The Flu? Not You! Ways to Protect Yourself

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