In life, and science, for every set of advantages there are inherent disadvantages - the proverbial pros and cons… When considering the type of balance that is needed, an advantage for some uses are significant disadvantages in other uses, bringing us to the understanding that it is critical to choose the equipment that best matches your unique uses. An analytical balance is simply an indispensable tool in every laboratory. It provides the weighing precision, counting, and many other features that streamline lab tasks.
Let’s Explore the Advantages
Accuracy
The need for accuracy is the nature of lab work. Analytical Balances such as those provided by OHAUS are the most important tool in every laboratory for use in managing the tiniest of samples, that require the highest precision of weighing accuracy, offering higher readability measuring to the nearest 0.01 mg
. Analytical balances are available with varied capacities and readability, enabling each lab to choose the capacity that best suits their measurement needs; from the
OHAUS Semi-Micro, to the
Analytical family of balances.
Display of Weighing Results
Unlike mechanical scales, electronic balances can be used in poorly lit environments due to LED displays with light-emitting diodes. The
OHAUS Analytical Balances are equipped with an easy-to-read bright touchscreen backlit
display, and a simple user interface. An advantage of their digital displays in reduction of reading errors as proven by studies of comparative errors when using analog verses digital displays. Another advantage with high-precision balances is that on their display, most models have a stability detector beside the result of the weighing measurement; further minimizing potential errors.
Reliability, Ease of Use, and Affordability
When regularly calibrated, analytical balances can measure even the slightest tiny fluctuation in weight, providing reliable weight measurement data. Due to their capabilities of incredible precision, even small undetectable air currents around a sample can alter a reading. Analytical balances feature a draftshield to protect the sample from moving air. This helps increase accuracy and repeatability by preventing fluctuating air pressure pressing down or lifting up on the sample being weighed. As analytical balances are so commonly needed, the high quantity of production allows for affordability, particularly in relation to the highly technical nature of their function; matching the application use with the optimal weighting tolerances.
Identifying the Disadvantages
Environmental Conditions
The accuracy of any weighing equipment can be affected by environmental factors; however, analytical balances require more considerations regarding the optimal placement of the balance. Conditions such as temperature, air pressure, vibrations, and humidity can affect the weighing measurements; so, it is important to assess the environment for placement while also maintaining optimal environmental conditions.
Not Easily Portable
This is not a grab-and-go piece of equipment. The analytical balance should remain in a consistent location, avoiding moving or jarring it as much as possible. Movements and vibrations negatively impact the measures without performing the task of recalibrating.
Maintenance
No different from any type of precision equipment, analytical balances require maintenance to ensure peak operational performance, and accuracy. Labs rely on equipment to produce repeatable, accurate, and reliable data; the balance must be kept clean, and regularly calibrated. An accuracy check should be performed annually, with possible calibration tests performed weekly. Improper use is one of the most common reasons for balances requiring repair. It is important to follow protocols of not exceeding weight capacity; resting objects or leaning on the weighing pan; or inappropriately manipulating the keypad with pens or utensils.
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Pros and Cons Conclusion
The analytical balance advantages overwhelm all possible disadvantages for any lab work requiring the highest level of weight accuracy with the smallest matter. The disadvantages of requiring care, environmental consistency, and maintenance are minimal in comparison to the performance advantages, and your ability to achieve new discoveries in your lab work; after all, you are a scientist because you strive for precision, and discovery. Analytical balances such as the
OHAUS Explorer Analytical Balance provide the opportunity to maintain the highest level of weight integrity with your work, enabling you to be the scientific explorer in your research, and projects.
Interested in getting a quote for one of the OHAUS products mentioned in this article? Click the links below:
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OHAUS Analytical Balances
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OHAUS Semi-Micro Balances