Thalasar Ventures

Analytical scales are used for measuring small mass with a high degree of accuracy and precision. For this reason they are of utmost importance in scientific research and the field of medicine. They are used for analyzing compositions of small substances that have little or no weight and hence the term ‘mass’ is used to denote their micro existence. It is evident therefore that precise calculation of elements, chemicals and compounds is necessary before testing a chemical reaction or making medicinal composition.

Some precautions that will ensure accurate readings and minimum errors include

Taking care to not bump into, or place objects on the bench after zeroing the balance.
Mass powders need to be placed on dishes. All objects should be handles with tongs, gloves or paper to prevent fingerprint contamination.
Hot objects should be left to cool before massing to prevent error due to thermal energy.
Hygroscopic objects should be weighed in quick succession to avoid hydration.
Do not leave spilled chemical unattended and clean them properly with safety precaution
Use the same procedure with repetitive massing.

The measuring pan attached to an analytical balance takes precise weight measurements with a minimum accuracy of 0.1 mg or better. The pans are usually placed inside a transparent enclosure with doors so that dust and other pollutants do not affect measurements. Even the air currents or drafts can disturb the pans and cause erroneous reading. Some good analytical balances come with a vented balance safety enclosure which is designed with acrylic airfoils, which let turbulent free airflow that keeps the pan static and prevents loss of product weighing less than 1 microgram. Another caution taken to prevent measurements from being affected, is to have the samples at room temperature so that natural convection air currents do not form within the enclosure.

Some modern balances have built in calibrations masses and temperature control to deal with the precautions described above. Companies have also developed analytical scales with software and other feature upon request. The software and ports allow data to be transferred directly from the analytical scales to a computer where a print out can be readily taken. Some scales can be verified as they have a plastic windscreen and an optional test weight to judge the accuracy of measurement.

Analytical scales are obtainable in the market with multiple functions. One is known as the TARE feature which allows automatic internal weight adjustments by resetting the balance to zero even with a substance in it. You can add each substance and hit it back to zero after you’re done with the measurement.  A piece count allows counting of substances with vibration detection. Most analytical scales, because of their usage in health and life saving drug formulation, may need ISO GLP protocol for accurate measurements. Medical certification may also be important for the lab using the scales. The software also allows determination of percentage of each substance as it is added to the mixture. Economical scales are available with weight ranges of up to 300, 3000 or 6000g.