Used Laboratory Balances For Sale (191)

Introduction

Whatever the process being undertaken in a laboratory, it is essential to have precision balances for accurate weighing of samples. There's a wide range of laboratory balances available, for applications in all types of laboratories - in schools, universities, and industry.

With this buying guide, we hope to help you find your way round the options, and point out the most important factors to consider.

Types of Laboratory Balance

Laboratory balances are one of the more straightforward pieces of lab equipment, in that there are few moving parts, and the basic function is weighing samples. The different types of balance depend on the weights of the samples, and the accuracy that is needed.

Micro Balances

Ultramicro and micro balances are designed for the smallest samples, and high resolutions of up to 0.0001 mg.

Typical minimum sample weight: 0.06 – 0.36 mg
Typical capacity: 6g with 0.0001 mg readability
Typical capacity: 52 g with 0.001 mg readability
Analytical Balances
Analytical balances offer good performance, accuracy and stabilisation times, and are ideal for complex weighing applications. They need a draught-free location on a solid bench, free from vibrations. Some analytical balances have built-in calibration masses and temperature monitoring.

Typical minimum sample weight: 0.01 – 1 mg
Typical capacity: 31 – 520 g
Typical readability: 0.01 – 1 mg
Precision Balances
Precision balances are designed for larger sample weights.

Typical minimum sample weight: 0.012 – 180 g
Typical capacity: 210 – 64,000 g
Typical readability: 0.01 – 100 mg
Top Pan Balances
These are for even larger sample weights, and have no draught shield. A typical sample weight could be 500g, weighed with an accuracy of 1 DP.

Features to consider

Below are some of the key criteria to take into account when buying a lab balance.

Sample size

In choosing a laboratory balance, you will need to know the maximum weight and the smallest (net) weight of your samples.

Accuracy

Make sure you know the accuracy needed for your process.

Automatic Calibration

Many lab balances come with built-in calibration software, which helps ensure high accuracy. All should come with a tare function.

Draught Shield

Is there an in-built draught shield? Some draught shields are motorised. Does the shield have a frame that could obscure your vision of the weighing area?

Display

The display is important – is it clear enough? Is it back-lit?

Dimensions

Check on the dimensions of the scales: in particular, the size of the weighing pan, and the free space above the pan.

Environmental conditions

The environmental conditions need to be considered:

Is it a hazardous area?
Is it a wet application?
Do you need a robust casing?

Accessories for Lab Balances

The accessories you need will depend on the model of laboratory balance, and your application. Some are listed below:

Draught shields (these can be built-in, but also added on)
Dust cover
Scale connection software
Anti-vibration table – not exactly an accessory, but an additional item of equipment that may be necessary

Thinking of buying a second-hand lab balance

Why buy second-hand?

The main reason for buying a second-hand laboratory balance is cost: typically, you might save about 50% on the cost of a new one, which is an important consideration if you have a limited budget.

A good laboratory balance may be expected to last for at least 10 years, depending on how much it is used. So, as long as a second-hand lab balance comes from a reputable source, and has been looked after correctly, it can provide as good a service as a new one.

However, as with making a new purchase, there are other considerations besides cost.

Considerations in buying second-hand Lab Balances

Age of the laboratory balance

Make sure you find out when the laboratory balance was originally purchased, and ask about its reliability. Ask to see the maintenance records, or service records. Ask why it is being sold.

Manufacturer

Check that the manufacturer still supports the model of lab balance you are considering.

Features

Be clear about what features you need, taking into account future needs. Will the model meet your requirements? Will the model of lab balance meet your requirements?

Now what?

Lab Merchant provides a service for those looking for laboratory balances and those who have balances to sell.

We merely ask a fee for advertising what you have to sell and what you are looking for: you do the rest.

Have a look through our website at what's on offer. Then it's up to you to get in touch with the buyer, or seller, and work out the price between you.

Lab Balance Manufacturers

Here's a list of leading manufacturers in alphabetical order:

Adam Equipment
Denver
Kern & Sohn
Mettler Toledo (top of the range)
Ohaus
O'Hea
Oxford
Radwag
Salter Brecknell
Sartorius (top of the range)

Lab Balance Buying Checklist

Essential information

Here's a short checklist of what to look for when buying a laboratory balance:

Accuracy
Precision
Readability
Reliability
Draught protection
Tare function
Level adjuster
Ease of use
Ease of cleaning
Connection to a printer

Hints and tips

Be clear about the specification

Make a list of the features you need in order of priority. This will largely be a matter of experience, but will also depend on standard protocols and regulations.

Make sure that the model you choose has all the features you need, and the features you will need in the future. You cannot upgrade a laboratory balance!

Accuracy and accuracy

Accuracy and reliability cannot be compromised – these should be a priority when choosing laboratory equipment.

Accessories

Some accessories may be necessary. Check whether the balance comes with these or not.

Research the manufacturer

Does the manufacturer have a reputation for reliability and durability?