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Scales and balances form an integral part of any laboratory. Being able to get the most accurate of readings in terms of weights and measurements is important to industry and research labs. Setting up analytical balances for laboratories makes weighing tasks easier and more accurate. With an analytical balance, you will be able to set up limits for repetitive tasks. Each time you top up the measuring level, a signal is shown if you are doing so in excess or are not really there. The accuracy is right down to the micromilligrams for some models.

When you purchase an analytical balance, choose one that remains unaffected by gravity, usually that has two platforms. This is to maintain accuracy level. Having two platforms will allow you to use the balance in any environment irrespective of where you place it. The features that add to accuracy levels are the digital readouts. Analytical balances have a more controlled environment than usual weighing scales. The glass or plastic enclosure that forms part of the analytical balance preserves the integrity of the sample .

Evaluate the purpose of the analytical balance. These vary in capacities and prices. You have models that simply give you measurements accurately. These are known as microbalances and ultra-microbalances. These balances have a multi unit feature. Example of these are newtons and grains, grams and kilograms as well as ounces. Analytical balances can be expensive, ranging from $2000 to $4000. Calibration must be regularly done to improve accuracy.

Ask for calibration recommendations from you vendor. You will also need to set protocols for your lab. Among these are ensuring that the balance is in an environmentally stable area and should be level at all times. Proper ventilation is also important. These are a few simple basics that will ensure the accuracy of your analytical balances above all other measuring equipment.

To maintain the accuracy of your analytical balance and thereby the test results, there are a few points you need to keep in mind. Know the procedures relating to calibration. There can be constant checks on those machines that are in line with ISO 9000 requirements. The onus falls on the owner of the machine to keep it well maintained. When measuring, especially with small amounts, slowly put the sample in the weighing container which is previously placed at the center of the pan, and wait for it to stabilize . This is a good practice to reduce the rate of erroneous readings. Put a discharge ionizer handy in case of weighing non-conductive materials. In such cases, measurements can be completely thrown off.

An analytical balance is important in a laboratory set-up. Accuracy of measurements is crucial when it comes to making of medicines or even in a manufacturing industry. While analytical balances are accurate, the optimum levels depend on the appropriate usage of the machine.

This article was written by Dr. Bob Sandor, a Director at Tovatech, a leading North American supplier of analytical balances. When not busy running his company, he explores his fascination with the many aspects of various scientific & industrial devices. For more information on this article visit the Tovatech site from any of the above links.