Importance of Accuracy and Consistency in the Weighing Process

Weighing is essential to many industries, especially those that prioritize accuracy and consistency, such as pharmaceuticals. Precise weighing of ingredients for manufacturing can make the difference between a successful medication and one that fails.

Automated weighing systems can increase efficiency and ensure that batches are correct, but they don’t eliminate the need for human oversight. Using best practices for the entire weighing process is key to getting accurate measurements.

Preparation of Samples

Sample preparation is a vital step in the weighing process that has a direct impact on analytical results. It is important to develop a sample preparation method that meets quality and accuracy requirements, while balancing productivity and product safety.

The sample preparation methods used in a lab can vary from one facility to the next, but there are some common steps that must be taken to ensure accurate results. Depending on the type of analysis, these steps may include:

The sample must be free of any foreign particles or substances that can affect its weight. It is also important to make sure the sample is evenly distributed on the weighing pan. This is especially important for accurate moisture analyses. The weighing pan needs to be clean and free of residues from previous measurements. For this reason, it is best to use a separate container for the sample that can be tared and easily cleaned. A small sample can be placed directly on the weighing pan, but this method increases the risk of errors.

Placement of Samples on the Balance Pan

When it comes to weighing, consistency among operators is the key to accurate and repeatable results. This is because different handling techniques can introduce error. For instance, loss of material during transfer from one container to another can affect the measurement.

Also, vibrations and air currents can affect the readings of an analytical balance. This is why the weighing process should be carried out in a place that is free of such factors and controlled for temperature and humidity.

In addition, it is important to tare the balance pan before placing the sample. This is done by placing an empty container on the weighing pan and pressing the tare button. Once the tare is set, the weight displayed on the screen is the sum of the weight of the empty container and the sample. In addition, bare hands should be avoided when touching the weights as hand grease can cause errors. Instead, clean forceps should be used for this purpose.

Recording of Readings

One of the most common sources of measurement error is in reading and recording a measurement. Whether the measurements are made on a scale or measuring tape, if they are incorrectly read or recorded they can be inaccurate.

For this reason it is important to follow the proper procedure for recording your results. It is also recommended to use a data logging system for your analytical balance, as this will help eliminate transcription errors and prevent erroneous data entries.

Some weighing systems also incorporate advanced technology to reduce weighing errors and speed up the process. For example, in-motion weighing systems allow vehicles to be weighed while traveling over the weighbridge, resulting in higher accuracy and more efficient traffic flow. Similarly, automated weighing systems with user-friendly interfaces can reduce the traditional learning curve for new staff, enabling rapid onboarding. This can increase productivity and improve overall quality. This is especially true in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes such as ‘weigh and dispense’ procedures.

Cleaning the Balance Pan

Keeping the balance clean is essential for obtaining accurate results and avoiding contamination. Even small amounts of residual material from the previous user can affect weighing accuracy and potentially pose health hazards for other users.

After each weighing operation the balance should be thoroughly cleaned, especially when weighing toxic substances. Ideally, this is done after each use and before the next operator starts work. Laboratory SOPs should specify how often the equipment is required to be cleaned, taking into account the risks involved in the process and the sensitivity of the weighed samples.

To clean the balance, first switch off the display and unplug the power – but be sure not to tilt or disconnect any connected peripherals. Then wipe the entire surface area of the balance using a lint-free cloth or paper towel dampened with a mild cleaning agent. Remove the weighing pan and wipe carefully, paying special attention to any residues on the metal parts (weight lock, breeze break ring and dust plate). Removable parts that are stainless steel can be sterilized in a dishwasher.

How to Take Steps to Control Weight

Taking steps to control weight can help reduce your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and other chronic health conditions. Start by reshaping your diet.

Eat more vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats like olive oil, avocados and nut butters. Limit sugary drinks and processed foods.

Eat More Vegetables

Vegetables are naturally low in calories and fill you up with fiber. They also provide many important nutrients, such as potassium and folate. You should aim to eat about 2 to 4 cups of vegetables per day. All vegetables count toward this goal, including starchy vegetables (such as potatoes and legumes) and leafy vegetables. It is important to get vegetables of different colors, as they contain a variety of nutrients.

It may be difficult to eat the recommended amount of veggies if you dislike them. Try experimenting with different preparations to find out which ones you find irresistible. For example, broccoli might taste boring steamed but when roasted with parmesan cheese and topped with balsamic glaze it can be absolutely delicious.

Make veggies the star of your meals by adding them to omelets, wraps and homemade pizzas. Replace empty-calorie snacks with veggies like carrots, cherry tomatoes and celery slices. They’ll keep you full and satiated and give you more energy for your daily activities.

Eat Less Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide energy to the body and brain, but they also can contribute to weight gain when consumed in excess. Carbs are a source of sugar, which the body converts to energy or stores in fat cells for use later. Choosing carbohydrate sources that are low in added sugar and processed flour is an important first step to cutting back on these calories.

Eating less carbohydrates also means eating more fiber-rich foods. This will help the body’s hypothalamus send a signal to stop eating when you are full. Eating high-fiber foods can also improve bathroom regularity and promote healthy gut bacteria.

The best sources of carbohydrates include whole grains (quinoa, bulger and brown rice), beans and lentils, nuts, seeds and avocados. Avoid highly processed carbohydrates, including baked goods made with white flour and sugary sodas. Check food labels to identify serving sizes and keep an eye out for added sugars in the form of dextrose, fructose, corn syrup, cane crystals or maltodextrin.

Eat More Healthy Fats

Fats provide energy, help cells to function and maintain proper hormone levels. Eat healthier fats while limiting unhealthy ones. Unhealthy fats include those from fatty meats, hard cheeses, whole milk and butter. Unsaturated fats are healthier choices and include vegetable oils like olive and canola, seeds and nuts, oily fish such as sardines, salmon and tuna, avocados and some vegetables. Remember, however, that all fats contain calories and should be consumed in moderation. Each gram of fat provides nine calories. For this reason, it’s important to read labels when choosing fats. Choosing the healthiest options can make the biggest difference in your overall diet.

Eat Less Added Sugars

Eating too much added sugar can lead to weight gain and increase your risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and tooth decay. Added sugars are found in sweetened beverages, desserts and sweet snacks such as soda, fruit drinks, energy drinks, candies, cookies, ice cream and cakes.

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that no more than 10% of your calories should come from added sugars. That means no more than 36 grams (or about 9 teaspoons) for a man and 25 grams (or 6 teaspoons) for a woman.

The best way to reduce your added sugar intake is to start by scanning ingredient lists and Nutrition Facts Labels at the grocery store. Try to choose beverages that don’t contain added sugar and swap out sweet snacks for lower-calorie options such as whole fruits or unsweetened yogurts and ice creams made with low-fat milk or a pinch of stevia powder. When baking, consider adding warm spices such as ginger, allspice and cinnamon instead of added sugar for a tasty flavor.