What is static charge?
It can be challenging to achieve accurate results even with the best equipment. This is because of external factors such as humidity that can impact accurate weighing. Additionally, a static charge is one external factor that might not be on top of your mind. This article will explain how static charge can impact precise weighing and how you can reduce it to receive accurate results.
How is Static Charge Made?
Objects generally have a balance of negative and positive charges. In addition, static electricity is made when there is a charge imbalance on an object. Also, the amount of charge relies on several factors, such as the texture of the materials, the contact surface area, the material separation speed, and the humidity level. Powdery substances are especially sensitive to static effects on weight.
So, when a static charge builds up on our hands, it will stay there until we transfer it to another item like a person or something metal. This is why we experience “static shocks.”
Static Charge’s Effect on Precision Weighing
Moreover, there are several ways in which daily items and actions can cause static charge in a lab setting. The examples include:
- Wiping or drying equipment or surfaces with a cloth
- Eliminating or putting on PPE like a hair net or laboratory coat
- Putting down or picking up glassware while you are wearing gloves
- Applying powder in a weigh boat
Objects with the exact charge negate each other, and those with opposite charges attract each other. This can lead to slight movement of objects. Plus, the attraction of particles along with any movement produced by static charge can cause errors in weight measurements.
How to Manage Static Charge to Ensure Accurate Weighing
Fortunately, there are steps you can perform to manage static charge when it comes to precision weighing.
- Use an ionizer to eliminate static electricity
- Utilize antistatic equipment
- Increase or work in a humid environment to lower the risk of static charge
CONTACT THE SCALE PEOPLE FOR WEIGHING EQUIPMENT AND CALIBRATION SERVICES!
Since 1956, The Scale People have earned a reputation as the finest service provider for calibration and repairs of weighing equipment in the mid-Atlantic area. Our sales team can help work with you to find the best weighing equipment for your application. We currently have offices in Columbia, MD, and Newport News, VA, but we offer our services nationwide. Over the years, we have built up a long list of satisfied clients from a wide variety of industries, including pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and government manufacturing. We are a fully ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited service company offering calibration for balances, scales, dynamometers, force measurement, test weights pipettes, and more. All of our services have a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We’re only a phone call away at +1 (800) 451-9593. To learn more about what we do, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.