The equipment used for laboratory testing is very complex, delicate, and expensive. So it needs professional handling and regular care for optimal work. Only that way can it contributes to the success and accuracy of the tests performed in Industrial Scale Companies.
One of the devices without which any lab tests are unthinkable is the analytical balance. As experts from Superior Scale Inc. explain, every examination starts with this scale, as it’s necessary for measuring the samples and all matters used. That’s why you have to handle and maintain it with care. Proper maintenance and smooth work will increase the balances’ lifespan. In the long run, that will cut repair or replacement costs.
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Optimal Room Conditions- Industrial Scale Companies
The analytical balance is essential for accurate sample preparation and analyses. So, the weighing device should be in good condition and regularly cleaned and serviced. Also, by following some basic guidelines, you can improve the performance of this device. They mainly concern the working conditions, as every lab room is the microclimate for itself.
The lab environment must be stable so that the measuring results will be accurate. The room should have optimal temperature and humidity. Also, the airflow should be minimal while measuring, as even the slightest air current can affect the accuracy of the balance.
The same goes for vibrations. The table where the measuring device stands should be in a place where the shakings are least felt. Room corners will work, but make sure not to attach the table to the floor and walls at the same time. Choose one of those two. The table surface should be non-metal, avoiding the influence of magnetism and static electricity.
Keep It Clean
Cleaning the analytical balance is another essential part of good maintenance. Most devices have glass shields around their measuring pans. These prevent dust and dirt from getting in touch with sensitive weighing mechanisms when you don’t use the balance. These covers also protect the weighing device from accidental bumps and spills.
But dirt can get in while you measure stuff. Even the tiniest debris particles can get stuck under the pan and impair the scale’s accuracy. Chemical residues can ruin other samples and damage your skin. So make sure you wipe the pan well after every measuring.
Do that gently as too much pressure on the weighing pan can break down the balance. Use a non-abrasive and lint-free microfiber cloth for cleaning sensitive lab equipment. Remove the pan and weighing platform before cleaning and wipe the inside of the glass shield.
Clean Weighing Platform
It’s also essential to keep the weighing pan clean. Top-loading balances have precision levels of +0.001, which means they can detect the tiniest substance particle. So, if you’re not careful, a microscopic whit can make measuring inaccurate.
Use mild cleaning agents for weighing platforms, pans, and containers. Always remove them from the measuring device before cleaning. Leave everything to air dry and then put all parts back.
External Cleaning
When cleaning the external components of your analytical balance, you should use a mild detergent safe for plastics and displays. Also, you can use multi-surface cleaners for various surfaces. Just make sure these products don’t contain abrasives and strong acids.
Dirt, sludge, dust, and skin oils can appear on your measuring device as it’s in use almost 24/7/365. Not removing this debris will make the scale look messy. Also, debris and grease can damage the housing and wear the keypads out. Cleaning the external components will prevent buildups outside and inside the device and keep it clean.
Regular Calibration
To ensure the accuracy of your analytical balance, you should always calibrate it regularly. Some devices have an internal calibration function that automatically keeps them in spec. You can set it to be done every time you turn the balance on. Besides, some scale models have the option of calibrating every time they detect temperature or humidity changes.
More on the importance of calibration read below:
Some laboratory scales have a manual calibration procedure that you can do yourself. Do calibration according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, you have to press a few buttons. Make sure that the device is leveled before calibration. Yet, if you find this a complex procedure, you can call a qualified professional to do it for you.
Proper Usage in Industrial Scale Companies
After cleaning the analytical balance, make sure the weighing chamber is completely dry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on maintaining this delicate device. They will suggest appropriate cleaning methods and solutions. Avoid the use of aggressive cleaning agents.
Make sure to close the analytical balance’s door every time to prevent dirt and dust from entering. You should also place it on a flat surface away from draft sources and near no vibrating equipment. And remember to never touch the scale itself with your fingers! That can seriously harm the accuracy of the results.
Don’t exceed the capacity of the analytical balance. That can damage the internal weighing mechanisms. Also, don’t place objects in the weighing pan before it stabilizes completely. Repeat the measuring procedure three or four times in a row to ensure the accuracy of the results. If there’s any deviation, calibrate the balance and do everything again.
Proper Storage
When storing laboratory scales in Industrial Scale Companies, you should keep these devices in a clean, non-harsh environment. If you won’t need these instruments for a while, turn them on (unplug corded devices) and keep them in well-protected and safe storage. Keep the scales away from busy workstations and vibrations. That will prevent them from bumping, falling, or breaking down.
Analytical balances should be away from other metal appliances, as they can magnetize and disrupt the scale’s accuracy. You can use a dust cover to keep the balance clean when you store it. From time to time, turn these devices on and calibrate them just to ensure they’re in good working order. On this page, find out how these measuring devices work.
Optimal measuring conditions and proper usage are a must when it comes to analytical balances, as these devices require professional handling. Also, it’s imperative to follow all maintenance procedures and keep your weighing equipment in good condition.
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