Analytical Balance: Uses and How to Use It

Laboratory equipment guide

Analytical Balance: Uses and How to Use It

An analytical balance is a highly sensitive electronic balance with a readability of 0.1 mg (0.0001 g) or better, enclosed by glass doors that block air currents. It is used to weigh substances for quantitative analysis and standard solutions.

How to use a analytical balance Analytical Balance at AMI Scientific

What is a analytical balance used for?

Weighing substances for standard solutions and quantitative analysis.
Determining moisture or ash content by mass difference.
Checking volumetric glassware by gravimetric calibration.

Parts of a analytical balance

1Display – shows mass to 0.0001 g
2Glass draft shield – blocks air currents
3Weighing pan – holds the container and sample
4Tare key and levelling feet – zero the container and level the balance

How to use a analytical balance

Step 1

Check it is level and warmed up

Check the level bubble is centred in its circle (1); if not, adjust the levelling feet. Switch the balance on at least 30 minutes before use so it stabilises.

Step 2

Place the container, close the doors, press tare

Place the container (watch glass, weighing paper or weighing bottle) in the centre of the pan, close the doors and press tare (1) until the display shows 0.0000 g.

Step 3

Add the substance with a spatula

Open a side door and add the substance a little at a time with a spatula (1). Do not spill onto the pan; clean up immediately if you do.

Step 4

Close the doors, wait for stability, then record

Close all doors and wait for the stability indicator before recording the mass (1). Samples must be at room temperature; warm items create air currents and drifting readings.

Common mistakes

Weighing substances directly on the pan without a container.
Handling weighing containers with bare fingers: skin oil and moisture add mass. Use tweezers or gloves.

Care and safety

Brush the pan and weighing chamber clean after every use.
Keep it on a sturdy, vibration-free bench away from doors, air conditioning and direct sunlight.

SOP for using a analytical balance

A summary of the standard operating procedure (SOP) for a analytical balance that your laboratory can adapt. Each step is explained in the how-to section above.

1Protective equipment

A lab coat and powder-free gloves.
A mask or a ventilated weighing enclosure for toxic powders.

2Before use

The balance is level (bubble centred) and has been on for at least 30 minutes.
The pan and chamber are clean; the doors are closed.
Run an internal or external calibration as scheduled or after the balance is moved.
Samples and containers are at room temperature.

3Procedure

Check it is level and warmed up
Place the container, close the doors, press tare
Add the substance with a spatula
Close the doors, wait for stability, then record

4After use

Remove the container, brush away spills and close the doors.
Leave it on standby if used often, so it does not need warming up again.
Record use in the balance log.

5Verification & calibration

Daily check with a standard weight (e.g. class E2 or F1) near the usual load; record the result.
Periodic repeatability and eccentricity tests, and calibration by an accredited lab at least once a year.

6Emergencies

Spill inside the balance: switch off and clean with a brush and damp cloth according to the SDS; never spray liquids.
Chemical on skin or in eyes: rinse with running water for at least 15 minutes (eyewash or safety shower), then report to the lab supervisor.

A print-ready version with purpose, scope, illustrated procedure, verification and sign-off boxes. Fill in your own document number and effective date.

Download the SOP (PDF, A4)

Types and sizes

Analytical balances usually weigh 120–220 g with 0.1 mg readability; semi-micro balances read 0.01 mg and micro balances 0.001 mg for tiny samples. Precision balances (0.01–0.001 g) are used for rougher weighing. Internal calibration is convenient in busy labs.