5 Best Practices for Analytical Balances

best-practice-analytical-balance

Analytical balances are very sensitive. Their accuracy can be affected by several factors including the environment in which they are installed and how they are handled.

Five Best Practices for Using Analytical Balances

  1. Proper Calibration

    Regular calibration helps your scale give consistent and accurate weights. It is important to calibrate the scale at the location where it will be used. If you do need to move the scale, you will need to calibrate it there as well.

  2. Select a Suitable Environment

    Factors such as humidity, temperature and air pressure can affect the accuracy of the analytical scale. Ideally, the scale would be placed where all these factors stay constant.

    Keep the balances in a vibration-free spot to prevent fluctuations in the readings. You can use a vibration-absorbing weighing table. These scales are ideally placed out of direct sunlight and away from HVAC vents as temperature and airflow can affect the scale.

  3. Minimize Sample-Induced Errors

    To get an accurate weight when using the scale, it is important to handle each sample appropriately. Non-conductive sample trays like glass or plastic can carry an electrostatic charge. This can affect the weighing results. You can minimize this by using an ionizer that can neutralize the electrostatic charge.

    Ensure the samples are at room temperature to avoid air currents inside the enclosure. Also, materials that are Hygroscopic should be weighed quickly with the balance doors closed to avoid moisture absorption.

    Placing the sample on the center of the scale will help achieve more accurate measurements. Also, be sure the scale is capable of weighing the required increments.

  4. Avoid Contact or Disturbances

    Even fingerprints can affect the weight of the weighing container once it is tared. The body oil on your fingers can add mass and lead to an incorrect reading.   To avoid this, you can use pan holders or gloves while handling the test weights and place the sample on the scale using tweezers.

  5. Keep the Scales Clean

    To avoid dirt or dust from affecting the scale, it is useful to keep the scale clean. Avoid using aggressive cleaning agents like solvents. Usually, a damp a cloth and mild soap will be enough to clean the scale, making sure excess liquid does not spill onto the scale.   If loose samples are stuck to the scales, use a soft brush to remove them. If the balance is unplugged during cleaning, allow it to warm up before using it again.

    For more information on scales or our services, contact Quality Scales Unlimited. Our experienced team can assist you with your weighing needs.