Take the Right Measures When Selecting a Lab Balance

A balance is an integral component of lab work, and choosing the correct equipment is essential to efficient performance and obtaining accurate results. According to Adam Equipment there are many options and considerations in selecting the right lab balance for the job.

When it’s time to purchase a new balance, the first step is to think about the types of applications to be performed. What do you need the balance to do and where will it be used? Will you need to connect it to other equipment? Some typical lab applications that might use a balance include lab testing, research, and field applications.

Readability is the smallest division a balance can display. Every application has a requirement for the level of precision in results. If you are weighing chemicals to the nearest 10mg (0.01g), a balance with 0.001readability is recommended.

You’ll need to know the capacity necessary for the job to be performed. Capacity is the maximum weight the balance can weigh. When calculating capacity, include the weight of any containers you might use.

Most balances are capable of weighing in different units. Certain applications require specific weighing units. For example, scientific laboratory applications typically require grams and milligrams, while food applications might require ounces.

The type of application can dictate pan size. The weighing pan must be large enough to accommodate the items being weighed. Additionally, container size can determine pan size.

Other important considerations include: do you prefer internal or external calibration; do you need to perform below-balance weighing; will you be weighing living, moving animals – is a dynamic weighing function important; to collect and record data, would a USB or RS-232 connection help; does your balance need to calculate specific gravity - some balances do this automatically; are there any workplace issues requiring lockdown capability for your device.