Semi micro analytical balances are used in labs to weigh extremely tiny samples. In quantitative experiments and studies involving chemical analysis, high accuracy is required. These balances are used exclusively for precision weighing. Samples that weigh above three hundred grams are not placed on the weighing pan as it may reduce the sensitivity and accuracy of the weighing process. On an average, for a sample weighing around eighty two grams, their accuracy is 0.01 gram and for a weight of two hundred and twenty grams, the accuracy reduces to 0.1 milligram. For larger weights, lab personnel are advised to use either analytical balances or top loading balances.

These balances display the weight up to four decimal places. These balances also have additional features like specific gravity measurement, auto print, piece counting and a wide choice of display units. To make the process of weighing easier and faster, they are designed make the time needed for stabilization and calibration shorter. The calibration process follows a twenty-four hour cycle and can be programmed anytime. The SCS technology enables the balance to automatically recalibrate itself on detecting even a slight shift in the operational temperature. These balances have a long operational life, temperature stability and superb response time. They can also be connected to printers and computers through a built-in data capture function. So, lab personnel have instant access to weighing data at any given point in time.

These analytical balances also have many other useful features like multifunctional applications, percentage weighing, multiple weighing units, factor multiplication, formulation, alternative weight, weight by totalization, statistics checking, density measurements, automatic calibration, rapid response time, etc. All these factors further enhance the accuracy of the device and enables its use in critical experiments and medical research. The latest semi micro analytical balances use sophisticated and high resolution weighing technology at affordable prices. Some balances have the dual range feature. They can weigh test samples at different resolutions. Depending on the weight of the sample, the readability ranges from 0.01 milligram to 0.1 milligram.

The balance is placed in a glass chamber coated with a special material to considerably reduce the effects of static electricity. State of the art weighing technology like ultra-precise electromagnetic force compensation technology incorporated into the balance reduces the margin of error to a negligible percentage. To ensure reliability and consistent performance levels, force restoration weighing technology has also been developed for these balances.

Regular software (firmware) updates can also occur automatically if the balance is connected to the Internet. The weight is displayed on a standard vacuum fluorescent screen. The high contrast screen improves the readability and allows lab personnel to view the reading displayed even under a few commonly observed and artificially created conditions in the lab environmental like bright light. These balances render the best possible reading for minute quantities of test samples only if the temperature, humidity and operating temperature conditions are maintained in the medical establishment or lab. Vibration and ventilation currents can significantly reduce the accuracy and efficiency of weighing.

Author Bio: Dr. Bob Sandor is a Director at Tovatech, a leading North American supplier of analytical balances. When not busy running his company, he explores his fascination with the many aspects of various scientific & industrial devices. For more details on the above you can reach him through the analytical balance section of his website.

Category: Education
Keywords: analytical balance,semi micro balance,lab analysis,laboratory weighing