Analytical Balances

The accuracy or precision of an analytical balance is model specific and will usually range from 0.1mg to 0.1g readability. Whilst this proves to be one of the most precise digital weighing scale types on the market, it is worth noting that as a rule, the pan size and capacity will be smaller in comparison to precision balances  and other types of digital weighing scale. Due to its high precision, the analytical balance is a preferred option for lab based applications.

To calibrate an analytical balance you will first need to know whether your balance uses internal or external calibration.

Analytical balances with internal calibration can be calibrated automatically by selecting the calibration option in your balance's setup/ calibration menu.

Analytical balances with external calibration will require approved calibration weights which need to be placed on the balance in sequence (using heavier weights to begin, such as 10g weights, moving through to more precise, lighter weights e.g 1mg). There are several Classes of calibration weights including M1, F1 and E2. Standard analytical balances require E2 class weights.

For more information on how to calibrate an analytical balance externally, please see our blog post on how to choose an analytical balance.

What are laboratory balances used for?

Laboratory balances, including analytical balances, are essential for any scientific area requiring ultra-precise weighing results. These areas include the pharmaceutical industry, for example.

Would you take any medication if you found out the chemical makeup was measured with a compact balance? Likely not – while compact balances have their place, formulating medications should be left to the laboratory balances. Laboratory balances like analytical balances aid the pharmaceutical industry in providing accurate and precise results so that each tablet or capsule does what it’s supposed to do.

Another area laboratory balances are crucial is biological research. So much of biology involves extremely small samples of biological materials, including tissues or microorganisms. Only a laboratory balance could provide the level of accuracy such important work requires.  

What are the advantages of analytical balances?

Analytical balances are extremely sophisticated machines - many offer readabilities as fine as 0.0001g. Those that are combined with a semi-micro balance, such as Adam's Equinox or Solis, offer dual capacities and readabilities as fine as 0.00001g. Your results could hardly be more accurate and precise. 

Many analytical balances also offer functions in addition to weighing, such as parts counting, percentage weighing or dynamic/animal weighing. This helps open the realm of possibilities in your laboratory.

What are the disadvantages of analytical balances?

While the sensitivity of an analytical balance is what gets you such incredible results, it can also be difficult to compensate. Vibrations, static electricity and air droughts can cause your results to drift or be inconsistent. Luckily, Inscale offers a variety of accessories for analytical balances to help prevent these outside influences from impacting your results. 

Vibrations are everywhere - your air conditioning system, the movement and footsteps around your work building, or even the construction down the street. We don't feel it, but your balance does. Using an Anti-Vibration Table, as mentioned above, neutrilises these pesky vibrations and allows you to perform precise work with ease. 

Luckily, all analytical balances on Inscale come already equipped with a draught shield - no accessory necessary. However, static electricity can be fostered within the draught shield, caused by the materials rubbing or dragging against the pan during the weighing process. There's ways to reduce this on your own, but if you're finding it difficult, we recommend utilising an ioniser. Ionisers reduce or even negate electrostatic charges with just the tap of the "on" button.