Ever weighed a sample in a lab?
So, it doesn't take much to throw off an analytical balance. This is because, with a readability of 0.1 mg or better, even a small object, such as a bothersome fly or a few scattered hairs, might cause your readings to get affected.
Because of this, there are often stringent rules & regulations in laboratories and other places where analytical balancing is used to remind researchers of the necessary safety criteria. If your workplace lacks such reminders, you can maintain analytical balances by adhering to the seven recommended practices listed below.
Always Keep Analytical Balances Calibrated
We recommend you to establish and adhere to a specific calibration routine. You should also make it a habit to continuously recalibrate your balance after moving it without failure.analyaaa
Make Sure to Shut Down the Draft Shield Door
All of them have a different draft shield because of their highly accurate readability. In reality, it prevents top loading, which is one among the main differences between an analytical and top-loading balance.
The draft shield's primary function is to keep the weighing pan separate from the rest of the lab setting because even a slight wind from a passerby might disrupt the reading. In other words, keep the shield door closed when taking your readings since it is present to serve a purpose.
Always Keep Your Balance Clean Before Weighing
Always check and clean your balance as required before each measurement. In addition to messing up your current readings, spilled particles can contaminate future samples. Fortunately, most analytical balances can be simply disassembled, making cleanup quick and simple. Dry, little spills can be cleaned with a delicate brush, while more difficult stains can be cleaned with mild soap or another suitable, non-aggressive cleaner.
Pick A Stable & Levelled Surface for Your Analytical Balance
Place your balance on a heavy table or an integrated countertop. We recommend looking at various anti-vibration weighing tables if you don't have such a surface. Even the slightest slope can affect your readings and it comes as inaccurate one. You need to fine-tune your balance's horizontal alignment as well.
Maintain A Consistent Lab Temperature
They give their best when they get the comfortable temperature. The ideal ambient temperature for analytical balance should be between 18 and 30 degrees Celsius. While the exact temperature isn't particularly crucial, you just need to avoid major changes in that temperature. A major misreading occurs by direct sunshine and other unexpected temperature changes. Therefore, place your balance as far away from any windows, doors, and air vents. Naturally, some of the best analytical balances can automatically adjust the temperature, but this feature is not present on all models, so you must be careful.
Check Your Surroundings for Possible Interference
First, clear a three-meter area of any magnets. Before moving forward, ensure nothing could fall or collect dust between your balance and the ceiling above it. Position a discharge ionizer next to your balance to avoid undesirable electrostatic charges, especially when working with dry, non-conductive samples.
Handle Your Samples & Weights with Care
User error is such a regular problem in the scientific area. Experts have categorized user error into three categories: systematic errors, random errors, and our blunders. Use the following safety measures to reduce human error as much as possible:
- Don't lean on the table
- Always wear gloves
- Properly keep your weights
- Use tongs or tweezers
You'll be a far more reliable and accurate data collector if you adhere to these seven best practices, which are always good.
