How to Use a Triple Beam Balance

When you think of the triple beam balance, you probably remember it from science class in school.  You probably remember an accurate and dependable weighing scale that could operate with no battery and now 110 VAC power. But it’s been awhile and you may be wondering how to use a triple beam balance?  We’ll show you how to use the Adam triple beam balance below.

The triple beam balance has been the standard in science classrooms for decades. Whether you’re weighing solids, liquids, powders or even animals, a triple beam balance is well equipped to handle the job. These balances offer the accuracy and convenience of a toploading balance while allowing users (many times these are students) to gain hands-on experience through manipulation of the poises and attachment weights (usually sold separately).

triple beam balance

Triple Beam Balance Instructions

To weigh using the triple beam balance, place the item to be weighed on the stainless steel pan. The beam will move up. Adjust the weights on the 3 beams until the beam pointer is aligned with the zero mark again. Start with the largest weight and work towards the smallest. Each weight should be moved until the beam falls below zero then moved back one notch and then the next weight moved. The last weight moved will be the sliding weight on the front beam. Slide this weight until the beam pointer aligns with the zero mark. Read the weight by adding the values for each weight. For example 400 + 20 + 5.7 = 425.7g 

If the sample is more than 610 grams it will be necessary to add a weight to the hanger on the right side of the beam. Add the 500g counter weight first, then increase to 1kg, 1kg plus 500g or 2 of the 1kg masses. Add these counter masses to the readings from the sliding beams to determine the mass. Counter weights are supplied only with the TBB 2610S and TBB 2610T.  These instructions above specifically correspond with the Adam Equipment brand of triple beam balances but they should give you a good idea of how a triple beam balance generally works from any scale manufacturer.

 

Affordable & Reliable Weighing Device for Schools

A triple beam balance is a type of mechanical balance that is commonly used in scientific and laboratory settings to accurately measure the mass of an object. It consists of a horizontal beam with three weights that can be moved along the beam to balance the object being weighed.

One of the primary benefits of using a triple beam balance is its high level of accuracy. The balance uses a lever system to measure the mass of the object, which allows it to be extremely precise. This is important in many scientific and laboratory applications where accurate measurements are critical.

Another benefit of the triple beam balance is its simplicity and ease of use. It does not require any electricity or batteries, and it is straightforward to operate. The user simply places the object being weighed on the platform, moves the weights along the beam until the balance is achieved, and reads the mass of the object from the marked scale on the beam.

The triple beam balance is also highly durable and reliable. It is made of sturdy metal components that are designed to withstand the rigors of laboratory use. It is also resistant to temperature changes and other environmental factors that can affect the accuracy of electronic balances.

In addition to its accuracy, simplicity, and durability, the triple beam balance is also a cost-effective solution for measuring mass. It is significantly less expensive than many electronic balances, making it a budget-friendly choice for educational and research institutions such as junior high school science class.

So, we showed above how to use a triple beam balance and it’s an excellent tool for accurately and affordably measuring the weight of smaller objects. It is easy to use, highly accurate, durable, and cost-effective, making it a valuable addition to any scientific or laboratory setting on a budget.