Practical Tips for Accurate Laboratory Weighing

This quick-reference guide provides simple best practices to improve weighing accuracy and consistency. Learn how to:

Ensure a stable weighing setup by fixing the weighing table to either the wall or the floor, but not both.
Optimize balance performance by placing it away from radiators and other heat sources.
Improve measurement precision by using the smallest possible weighing vessel.
Prevent contamination and handling errors by using gloves and tweezers when handling weights

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Best Practices for Accurate Weighing

The location of your balance has a direct impact on the precision and reproducibility of your weighing results.

Working table

• Use a stable table fixed to either the wall or the floor, but not both

Working room
• Check for a vibration free place for your table

Room temperature
• Keep the room temperature as stable as possible, 20–25 °C
• Do not locate the balance near radiators or windows
• Tip: Balances with FACT automatic internal adjustment can compensate for virtually all the remaining temperature drift

Humidity

• Do not operate the balance above or below the measuring range of 20–80% rH

Light as a heat source
• Do not place the balance in direct sunlight
• Place the balance away from other light sources, especially light bulbs

Air
• Do not place the balance in the air flow of air conditioners or devices with ventilators
• Tip: Open the draft shield of the balance only as far as necessary

Location Matters: Keep Your Balance in the Correct Place

Correct handling of your balance and sample is essential to minimize external influences on your weighing results.

Switching on the balance

• Do not disconnect the balance from the power supply

Leveling
• Ensure the balance is level by checking that the air bubble is in the center of the level indicator

Weighing vessel
• Use the smallest possible weighing vessel
• Avoid weighing vessels made of plastic when atmospheric humidity is below 30–40 %RH

Weighing pan
• Always place the sample in the middle of the weighing pan

Reading
• Check that the balance displays zero before weighing
• Tare after placing the weighing vessel on the balance
• Ensure that the reading is stable before recording the result

Sample
• Acclimatize the sample and weighing vessel before weighing
• Be aware of possible electrostatic charging of the sample and weighing vessel

Data Management
• Transmit your data to a printer or a PC for storing of the measurement

Routine testing verifies your balance is performing within specifications and ensures valid results.

How to test your balance

• Make sure that the balance is acclimatized to the ambient temperature

• Level the balance

• Perform the test in accordance with your SOP

Weights

• Use certified weights in the correct weight class (OIML, ASTM)

• Always use gloves and tweezers when handling weights

Good Weighing Practice™

METTLER TOLEDO Good Weighing Practice™ is a global risk-based weighing guideline that helps you make the right decision where it really matters: 135.02g Evaluation, selection, installation, operation and testing of your weighing system.

• How to choose the correct balance for your requirements

• Guidance on handling and maintenance of the balance

• Recommendations for the right testing scenarios

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Tips and Tricks: Avoid Weighing Errors

Common Problems and Explanations

Common Problems and Explanations

Best Practices for Accurate Weighing

Location Matters: Keep Your Balance in the Correct Place

Operating Your Balance: Avoid Common Errors

Routine Testing: Your Insurance for Exact Results

Search suggestions

Tips and Tricks: Avoid Weighing Errors

Common Problems and Explanations

Common Problems and Explanations

Best Practices for Accurate Weighing

Location Matters: Keep Your Balance in the Correct Place

Operating Your Balance: Avoid Common Errors

Routine Testing: Your Insurance for Exact Results

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