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Five common mistakes when using an analytical balance
Even the most accurate balance reads wrong if it is badly sited or badly used. Five frequent mistakes, and how to avoid them.
An analytical balance reads to 0.1 mg — which also means it is extremely sensitive to its surroundings.
1. Siting it on a vibrating bench
Use a dedicated anti-vibration weighing table, away from doors, centrifuges and fume hoods.
2. Not levelling the instrument
Check the spirit level every time the balance is moved. An unlevel balance reads with a systematic error.
3. Weighing with the draft shield open
Even a slight air current stops the reading settling. Close the shield and wait for stability.
4. Not letting the sample equilibrate
A sample warmer or cooler than the room creates convection currents. Let it reach room temperature first.
5. Skipping scheduled calibration
Internal calibration does not replace scheduled external calibration — that is what makes results traceable.