Accuracy and Precision in Laboratory Measurements

Industrial scales are designed to provide accurate weights regardless of environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations or moderate vibrations. However, precision weighing with sensitive scales requires a safe, quiet space to weigh samples. Consider the following when deciding where to perform laboratory measurements:

	Room Temperature Inconsistent temperatures and effects like condensation or static electricity from low humidity cause weight fluctuations in small samples. To avoid the impact of low-humidity environments, keep the room at around 60% humidity. When positioning the scale, consider any sunlight from windows, which also causes temperature fluctuations.
	Vibrations and Shaking Many buildings experience subtle shaking from wind or other conditions. To minimize vibrations, ensure the measuring room is on the ground floor or below ground. If heavy traffic or railways are outside the building, use the room farthest from outdoor interference. Also, consider the impact of indoor activity such as foot traffic, which causes vibrations that sensitive scales may pick up.
	Airflow Buildings with air conditioners, open windows or heavy foot traffic will have strong breezes that can disturb precision scales. Avoid rooms with drafts that may move samples or alter the scale, leading to unreliable results.
	Geographical Location Depending on the latitude and longitude of a facility, the gravitational pressure on a scale changes. If a scale is moved between facilities or even within rooms, recalibrate it to ensure changes in gravity are accounted for.
	Electromagnetic Waves Objects that generate electromagnetic waves, such as light bulbs or cell phones, can interfere with accurate calculations. Keep any devices that generate strong electromagnetic waves away from precision scales.

Finding the Proper Measuring Bench

When designing a measuring room, the measuring bench is impacted by many similar environmental elements. Finding a quality bench minimizes the negative impact of environmental factors. Look for benches designed with a vibration-proof structure, such as a concrete or stone base. These construction methods dampen vibrations and reduce the impact on scales.

Rice Lake Weighing Systems’ Precision Weighing Solutions

Rice Lake offers a range of precision scales for laboratory and medical applications, with Legal for Trade and portable designs. Rice Lake’s balances stabilize quickly and produce reliable weights with mono-metal tuning fork technology.