When using electronic analytical balances for the first time, most users aren’t aware of the common errors associated with the process. Other than incorrect calibration, multiple environmental, physical, or chemical reasons can impact the measurement. As these balances are used for high-precision measurements, you must be aware of these errors and know how to avoid them.
We will talk about the most common errors in weighing with electronic analytical balances. Besides, you will learn how to get accurate measurements by avoiding these errors. At the end, we will introduce you to the electronic analytical balances supplier to get your desired balance. Let's begin.
Common Errors to Avoid in Weighing with Electronic Analytical Balances
Know about these rookie mistakes and remain careful not to make these mistakes yourself.
Mistake 1: Not Calibrating the Balance
Electronic analytical balances must be calibrated properly to provide accurate measurements. Over time, balances can go out of calibration for various reasons. If you haven’t used the balance in a while and start measuring an object directly, it is highly likely to get inaccurate results.
To avoid this issue, you must calibrate the balance following the user manual. Calibrating the balance doesn’t take much time. Remember, it is a good practice to check the calibration of the balance every few days or weeks.
Mistake 2: Placing the Balance Near Other Equipment
As electronic analytical balances are highly sensitive, you should never place them near other equipment. Especially if you place the balance near refrigerators or any other equipment that vibrates, you won’t get accurate results. A slight vibration from other equipment can alter the result.
If you are measuring something very small or fragile, the vibration can destroy the weight balance. It will result in faulty results. So, always place the analytical balance far from any possible source of vibration.
Mistake 3: Not Taking the Room Temperature into Account
Temperature can greatly impact any measurement done with electronic analytical balances. These balances are designed to determine even the smallest changes in the weight of the target object. If the balance is placed in a really hot lab, the temperature can cause evaporation. As a result, you won’t get the accurate weight of the target object.
Similarly, a very low temperature will also impact the measurement accuracy. The best way to use electronic analytical balances is to maintain standard temperature and pressure in your lab.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Chemical Reactions
Besides environmental factors like the temperature, the chemical properties of the target object can also alter the measurement results. For example, some materials react with the oxygen in the air. If you expose such a material to oxygen or air while measuring it, you will never get an accurate result.
The best way to avoid this mistake is to create an inert environment where the target material can’t have any chemical reactions. For example, you can submerge white phosphorus samples in water to prevent them from reacting with the air.
Mistake 5: Using Analytical Balances in Places with Air Currents
As electronic analytical balances use the force restoration mechanism to measure the weight of objects, they should be away from air currents. But in many cases, users place electronic analytical balances directly under the ceiling fan or air conditioner.
The air current from the fan or the air conditioner has enough force to alter the reading of the balance. Especially if you are measuring extremely small samples, the percentage of error will be ridiculously high. You can avoid this mistake by placing electronic analytical balances far away from any source of air currents. Even an open door can cause faulty readings.
Mistake 6: Errors Caused by the User
Even if an analytical balance is calibrated properly and you have checked all of the above boxes, a faulty measurement can occur due to user errors. For example, not paying attention while placing the sample or handling samples harshly can result in measurement errors.
Keeping the workspace packed with other things increases the chance of error. Placing magnets near the balance or the balance on a sloped surface can also alter the test results.
The only way to eliminate these errors is to be more focused while using electronic analytical balances. You must be careful about the precautions and follow the standard guidelines set by the lab authority.
Where Can I Get the Best Electronic Analytical Balances?
Getting a high-precision and accurate analytical balance is the key to obtaining accurate measurements. Weighing Instrument Co. Ltd. is the best electronic analytical balances supplier out there. They are famous for providing a wide variety of electronic analytical balances for all your needs.
Their product lineup includes basic to advanced models of electronic analytical balances with varying levels of precision. Pick the model you need and use it carefully to work wonders.