Selecting an Entry-Level Single Cell Analytical Balance
An analytical balance is one of the more precise weighing and measuring tools available to industrial and academic research organizations. Laboratory balances equipped with single cell weighing systems have traditionally represented the high end of these precision weighing systems but at a cost premium. Technology advances have changed that, as evidenced by the new Kern ABS/ABJ series of analytical balances available from Tovatech.
What is Single Cell Weighing?
Simply stated, these systems use a single block of material such as aluminum as the weighing mechanism as opposed to multiple-component conventional balances. Because they have no moving parts there is no wear and tear. As a result these balances continue to perform well for a longer time than scales with conventional weighing mechanisms.
Other important advantaged include improvements in accuracy, precision, speed and reproducibility of weight values due in no small part to higher corner load reliability. The latter means that samples can be placed anywhere on the weighing pan without affecting the readout.
Understanding the ABS/ABJ Single Cell Analytical Balances
There are four externally calibrated ABS Series of analytical balances with maximum weights of 80, 120, 220 and 320 grams, each with readout of 0.1 mg. All four have a reproducibility of 0.2 mg and ±0.3 mg linearity. Recalibration should occur on a regular basis or when the balance is moved, subjected to temperature changes or vibrations. Recalibration procedures should be documented in your operations manual.
Three models in the automatically calibrated ABJ laboratory balances have maximum weight capacities of 120, 220 and 320 grams along with the same readout, reproducibility and linearity of the ABS series. Calibration occurs with a change in temperature of >2⁰C or automatically every four hours. There is a 2-minute warning of a pending recalibration. For a more detailed discussion refer to our blog post on internal and external calibration.
Both the ABS and ABJ precision laboratory balances can be used for recipe weighing, percent weighing and piece counting, and can be switched to non-metric units. Recipe weighing and documenting is simplified with a combined tare/print function with mixing ingredients numbered automatically and printed out with their weight value. Data are transferred to a printer or PC using an RS232 interface. A useful optional accessory is an ionizer to neutralize electrostatic charge.
Placing and Maintaining Analytical Balances
Follow instructions in the user manual. All analytical balances should be positioned away from drafts, vibrations and temperature extremes. Keep the weighing area clean and promptly remove samples that may slip off the weighing pan by using a gentle vacuum or soft brush. If you are weighing liquids use a tared container and slowly and carefully add the liquid while the container is on the balance. Each time you add any substance to a weighing container you must allow the balance to stabilize for about three seconds before taking a reading.
Contact the weighing professionals at Tovatech for help in selecting the right instrument for your operations.
