Electronic Balance is a commonly used tool in modern laboratories and is widely used in many fields such as chemistry, physics, and medicine. It uses the principle of electromagnetic force balancing to accurately weigh the mass of objects, which is simpler, faster and more accurate than traditional mechanical balances, and gradually replaces many manual balances. This article will introduce the selection, use and maintenance of electronic balances in detail to help you better use this equipment.
Selection of electronic balances
When choosing an electronic balance, you first need to consider its accuracy and maximum weighing range according to the needs of the experiment. The accuracy of an electronic balance is generally expressed by the index value, and the smaller the graduation value, the higher the accuracy of the balance. For example, if you need to weigh an object of 8 mg, it is obviously not possible to obtain accurate results with a balance with a maximum weight of 200 g and a graduation value of 1 mg, because the balance has too much margin of error. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the indexing value and maximum weight of the balance meet the requirements of the experiment.
In addition, the environment in which the balance will be used also has an impact on the choice. To ensure the accuracy of the measurements, the balance should be placed in a stable temperature, vibration-free, dry place, and calibrated regularly to cope with the effects of environmental changes. Often, changes in the laboratory environment, especially in temperature, can have an impact on the balance's sensors, so calibration is necessary to ensure accuracy.
Use of electronic balances
1. Preparation before weighing
Before use, the balance should be warmed up sufficiently to bring its electromagnetic system to thermal equilibrium. Place the balance on a stable plane, away from direct sunlight and humidity, to ensure that the supply voltage is stable.
2. Precautions when weighing
When weighing, make sure that the temperature of the object to be measured and the container are consistent, avoid direct contact with your hands, and use tweezers or clips. Items should be placed in the center of the weighing pan with the balance door closed to reduce airflow interference. You can use the rough scale of the ordinary balance first, and then the fine scale of the precision balance.
3. Post-weighing operations
After the weighing is completed, clean the balance in time to avoid dust ingress. Volatile or corrosive substances are weighed in an airtight container.
Maintenance
The maintenance and care of an electronic balance is directly related to its long service life and accuracy.
Clean regularly – clean the balance promptly after each use to avoid fine substances from entering the gaps in the balance. Use a soft cloth when cleaning to avoid scratching the balance's sensors.
Avoid overloading – Do not use outside the maximum weighing range of the balance to avoid damage to the balance. If heavier objects need to be measured, the appropriate balance model should be selected.
Fault maintenance - if the balance fails, it should be stopped immediately, contact professional and technical personnel for maintenance, and do not work with "illness", so as not to affect the measurement accuracy.
Storage when not in use for long periods of time – If the balance is not in use for a long time, it should be stored properly to avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures or humidity.
epilogue
As an important weighing tool in modern experiments, the selection, use and maintenance of electronic balances are crucial to the accuracy of experimental results. Through scientific and reasonable purchase, correct operation and daily maintenance, the service life of the electronic balance can be extended, the accuracy of each measurement can be guaranteed, and strong support can be provided for scientific research.
