While the sensitivity of a microbalance makes it ideal for use in cases where precision is a priority, this quality can be quite frustrating. This is because the equipment's sensitivity to the environment can end up leading to inconsistent results. Getting a final reading can also be challenging as the equipment's display value may keep on changing. The following are tips that will come in handy in helping you to avoid the frustrations that usually come with using a microbalance.

Minimize the effects of vibrations

Vibrations, even those that human beings cannot detect, usually affect the readings of a microbalance. Making sure that you minimize the equipment's exposure to these vibrations will go a long way towards reducing the changing-display-value problem.

If your are located in an area that is prone to strong winds, near a seashore, next to a train track or near a construction site, your balance will be prone to giving inconsistent results. To increase your device's accuracy, place the balance near the corner of the room. This will minimize vibration interference because corners of a building tend to be more stable -- they have enhanced structural support. And since they are less prone to vibrations, placing the balance near a corner will minimize inconsistencies. Placing it away from the door, will also reduce the effect of the vibrations caused by the opening and closing of the door.

Using a dedicated workbench is also an easy way of reducing vibration-caused inconsistencies. A heavy and stable workbench is less susceptible to vibrations caused by movement. Making sure that no activity, other than weighing, takes place on the bench will also eliminate micro-vibrations that can sometimes mess with the accuracy of a reading.

Minimize the effects of temperature fluctuations

A microbalance has metallic parts. Changes in temperature usually causes some of these parts to expand and contract. With a machine as sensitive as a microbalance, these fluctuations usually lead to inconsistent readings. Making sure that your balance is installed in a room that is shielded from environmental temperature fluctuations is an easy way to improve its accuracy.

To keep the room temperature within an acceptable range, install an air conditioner. You can also minimize the effect of temperature fluctuations by placing the balance away from lamps, furnaces, burners and any other equipment that can generate heat.

If you choose to use an air conditioner, ensure that you place the balance away from the vents of the air conditioning system. This is because these vents generate drafts with temperatures that are markedly different from room temperature. Exposing your balance to these drafts will therefore lead to inaccurate readings.

For more tips, contact a company like Strack Scale Services.

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