Location of the Balance

The precision and reproducibility of weighing results is closely associated with the location of the balance. To ensure that your balance can work under the best conditions, please observe the following guidelines:


Weighing bench

  • weighing_bench.jpgStable (lab bench, lab table, stone bench). Your weighing bench should not sag when work is carried out on it and should transfer as few vibrations as possible.
  • Antimagnetic (no steel plate).
  • Protected against electrostatic charges (no plastic or glass).
  • Wall or floor installation The weighing bench should be fixed either to the floor or on the wall. Mounting the bench on both places at once transfers vibrations from wall and floor.
  • Reserved for the balance.

The place of installation and the weighing bench must be stable enough that the balance display does not change when someone leans on the table or steps up to the weighing station. Do not use soft pads underneath, such as writing mats.

It is better to position the balance directly over the legs of the bench, since the area is subject to the fewest vibrations.
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Work room

  • work_room.jpgVibration-free
  • Free from drafts

Place the weighing bench in a corner of a room. These are the most vibration-free areas of a building. Ideally, the room should be accessed through a sliding door to reduce the influence of door movements.

Temperature

  • temperature.jpgKeep the temperature of the room as constant as possible. Weighing results are influenced by temperature! (Typical drift: 1-2 ppm/°C).
  • Do not weigh near radiators or windows.

METTLER TOLEDO balances with “FACT” (fully automatic motorized selfcalibration) can compensate virtually all the remaining temperature drift. For this reason, “FACT” should always be switched on.

Atmospheric humidity

  • altmospheric_humidity.jpgIdeally, the relative humidity (% RH) should be between 45 and 60 %. Balances should never be operated above or below the measuring range of 20 to 80 % RH.

Constant monitoring is advisable with micro balances. Changes should be corrected whenever possible.

Light

  • light.jpgIf possible, place the balance on a window-free wall. Direct sunlight (heat) will influence the weighing result.
  • Place the balance a significant distance from lighting fixtures to avoid heat radiation. This especially applies to light bulbs. Use fluorescent tubes.

Air

  • air.jpgDo not place the balance in the air flow of air conditioners or devices with ventilators, such as computers or large laboratory devices.
  • Place the balance a sufficient distance from radiators. In addition to the potential temperature drift, strong currents of air could interfere with operation of the balance.
  • Do not place the balance next to a door.
  • Avoid places with high traffic. Passersby will usually create a draft at the weighing location.