New Video From Mettler-Toledo Shows The Advantages Of Sample Handling Automation In Density Determination
Automating sample handling makes density measurements more efficient and error-free. The new METTLER TOLEDO video compares manual and automated sample handling, showing each step of the automated workflow and the advantages compared to manual sample handling.
September 2, 2015 - Density measurement is used in many labs for quality control of incoming goods, intermediate or final products.
The Evolution of Density Measurement
1. Manual density measurement
In the earlier days, only manual methods like pycnometers and hydrometers have been used to determine the density or the corresponding concentration of a sample.
2. Digital density measurement
The first digital density meters appeared in the 80's, using a Peltier thermostated measuring cell. This measuring cell consists of a hollow glass tube which vibrates at a certain frequency. This frequency changes when the tube is filled with the sample: the higher the mass of the sample, the lower the frequency. This frequency is measured and converted into density. Calibration is carried out with air and distilled water. A built-in Peltier thermostat controls the temperature very precisely without the need of a water bath. Thanks to digital density meters, the accuracy and reproducibility of measurements could be greatly improved. These digital density meters require manual sample handling. The sample is introduced into the measuring cell with the syringe and then removed manually. The cleaning of the measuring cell is also done manually, as well as the drying. These manual steps are error prone, as they depend on the skills of the operator.
3. Automated sample handling: Fast, error-free measurements
The next step in density measurement is to also perform the sample handling automatically. Sample automation units like the SC1 from METTLER TOLEDO run all steps automatically, performing sampling, draining, cleaning and drying without intervention of an operator. As these steps are systematically performed in the same way, there is no more user dependent workflow. This results in an increased accuracy and repeatability. In addition it saves a lot of time, which the operator can use more efficiently.
Watch the new video to learn how sample handling can be automated in your routine density measurements.
Find more general information on density here.
Help employers find you! Check out all the jobs and post your resume.
September 2, 2015 - Density measurement is used in many labs for quality control of incoming goods, intermediate or final products.
The Evolution of Density Measurement
1. Manual density measurement
In the earlier days, only manual methods like pycnometers and hydrometers have been used to determine the density or the corresponding concentration of a sample.
2. Digital density measurement
The first digital density meters appeared in the 80's, using a Peltier thermostated measuring cell. This measuring cell consists of a hollow glass tube which vibrates at a certain frequency. This frequency changes when the tube is filled with the sample: the higher the mass of the sample, the lower the frequency. This frequency is measured and converted into density. Calibration is carried out with air and distilled water. A built-in Peltier thermostat controls the temperature very precisely without the need of a water bath. Thanks to digital density meters, the accuracy and reproducibility of measurements could be greatly improved. These digital density meters require manual sample handling. The sample is introduced into the measuring cell with the syringe and then removed manually. The cleaning of the measuring cell is also done manually, as well as the drying. These manual steps are error prone, as they depend on the skills of the operator.
3. Automated sample handling: Fast, error-free measurements
The next step in density measurement is to also perform the sample handling automatically. Sample automation units like the SC1 from METTLER TOLEDO run all steps automatically, performing sampling, draining, cleaning and drying without intervention of an operator. As these steps are systematically performed in the same way, there is no more user dependent workflow. This results in an increased accuracy and repeatability. In addition it saves a lot of time, which the operator can use more efficiently.
Watch the new video to learn how sample handling can be automated in your routine density measurements.
Find more general information on density here.
Help employers find you! Check out all the jobs and post your resume.