In a laboratory, everything revolves around small quantities. A deviation of a tenth of a milligram can make an analysis, formulation or batch release unreliable. MASSLAB calibrates analytical balances, semi-micro balances and precision balances on site at your premises, using weights of the appropriate class from our own laboratory.
We calibrate independently of brand, so also balances from brands we do not supply ourselves.
The more accurate the balance, the more accurate the weights need to be. The measurement uncertainty of the test weight contributes directly to the result of the calibration. For an analytical balance with 0.1 mg readability we therefore use weights of class E2 or better. For precision balances these are usually F1 or F2 weights, depending on the readability and the weighing range.
We manage our reference weights ourselves and know the current value and uncertainty of every weight. Your certificate lists the weights used, with their traceability to national standards.
With fine balances, the environment is as decisive as the balance itself. Our technicians therefore pay attention to:
A balance with a readability of 0.1 mg is not suitable for weighing out 0.1 mg accurately. With small quantities the relative error increases, mainly because of the repeatability. The minimum weight is the smallest quantity at which the measurement uncertainty remains within your own requirement, for example 0.1 % or 1 %.
From the calibration measurements, the measurement uncertainty in use can be calculated, and from that the minimum weight for your requirement. Do you work according to pharmaceutical regulations or internal procedures with your own tolerance? Let us know in advance. We then tailor the measuring points and the reporting accordingly.
A calibration is a snapshot. Many laboratories therefore check their balances daily or weekly themselves with a check weight and record the result. This way you spot a deviation in time and can show the auditor that the balance was also in order between two calibrations.
For these checks you use weights with a valid certificate. We supply E2 and F1 weights and calibrate your own check weights of class F1 and lower in our laboratory. If you hand them over during the calibration visit, we take care of both at once.
Usually annually, supplemented by your own daily or weekly check with a check weight. For critical applications or heavy use, laboratories often opt for a shorter interval.
No. We prefer to calibrate laboratory balances in their own location, because the environment contributes to the result. Our technician comes to you with the weights.
That depends on the repeatability at your location and your own accuracy requirement. The minimum weight can be determined from the calibration measurements; let us know your requirement in advance.
No. The internal adjustment weight allows the balance to correct itself, but it is not a traceable calibration. A calibration with external certified weights shows whether the balance really weighs correctly.
Yes. We calibrate the balance under the conditions in which it is used and state the environment on the certificate.
New calibration weights, optionally with a certificate from our own laboratory.
Request a quote or call us. We calibrate in our own laboratory in Geldermalsen or on site, throughout the Netherlands and Belgium.