Calibration of an Analytical Balance

Summary

This video script guides users through the process of calibrating and using an analytical balance. It covers essential steps such as leveling the balance, cleaning the tray, powering up the device, and performing the calibration procedure using precise weights. The script emphasizes careful handling to avoid contamination, ensuring accurate measurements. The user is also instructed to verify calibration and reset the balance when necessary. This process ensures reliable and repeatable results, making it crucial for scientific measurements requiring high precision.

Takeaways

• 😀 The analytical balance is a precise instrument used for weighing masses to four decimal places.
• 😀 Ensure the balance is leveled for accurate, repeatable results. Use the leveling feet to center the air bubble.
• 😀 Clean the balance tray and surrounding area using a soft bristled brush to prevent contaminants.
• 😀 Close all balance doors before use to ensure accurate measurements.
• 😀 Turn on the balance and allow it to warm up for 30 minutes for optimal performance.
• 😀 To calibrate, press and hold the 'Mode' button until 'Cal' with dashed lines appears on the display.
• 😀 Move the calibration lever toward the rear when 'Cal 100' appears, and then return it when 'Cal 0' appears.
• 😀 Use forceps or a Kimwipe when handling calibrated weights to avoid contaminating them with oils from your hands.
• 😀 Verify calibration by placing 50g and 100g calibrated weights on the balance and ensuring stability within ±0.3 milligrams.
• 😀 Press the zero or 'ot' key after calibration to reset the balance to zero.
• 😀 After calibration, ensure the balance reads zero before proceeding to weigh samples.

Q & A

Why is it important to level the analytical balance?

Leveling the balance ensures that the measurements are accurate and repeatable. The balance's internal mechanism works optimally when it is level.

Where are the leveling feet located on the balance?

The leveling feet are located at the back of the balance housing.

What is the significance of the air bubble in the leveling process?

The air bubble in the level needs to be centered to ensure the balance is correctly aligned. This ensures accurate weight measurements.

How long should the balance warm up before use?

It is recommended to allow the balance to warm up for 30 minutes to ensure optimal performance.

What should you do after turning on the balance?

After turning on the balance, wait for it to display '0' before proceeding with calibration or measurement.

What does 'Cal 100' and 'Cal 0' indicate during calibration?

'Cal 100' appears when the balance is ready to be calibrated with a 100g weight. 'Cal 0' indicates that the calibration process has been completed and the balance is now set to zero.

How should you handle the calibrated weights during calibration?

Calibrated weights should be handled using forceps or a Kimwipe to avoid contamination from oils or other substances on your hands, which could affect the accuracy.

What is the significance of the stability circle on the balance's display?

The stability circle on the display indicates that the balance has finished stabilizing and is ready to take an accurate measurement.

What should you do if the balance does not return to zero after removing weights?

If the balance does not return to zero, you should press the 'Zero' or 'OT' key to reset it.

What is the purpose of calibrating the balance before weighing objects?

Calibration ensures that the balance measures weights accurately by comparing it against known standard weights, which ensures precise measurements during use.