Triple Beam Balance Equilibration

1. A triple beam balance is used to measure mass. In the metric system, mass is measured in grams. A triple beam balance can be used to find the mass of an object or to measure out a specific amount of a substance for an experiment.

2. The triple beam balance is a lever. The platform on the left side of the balance is for the sample. The right side of the balance has three beams, each containing weights called poises. The poises are used to balance the object being measured.

3. Equilibrate the triple beam balance before using it to obtain the mass of a sample.

4. Turn the balance so the scales are facing you.

5. Move all poises (2, 3, and 4) to the “0” position and be sure the platform (1) is clean and empty.

6. Turn the adjustment wheel (7) to the rear of the balance to move the balance indicator(5) up.

7. Turn the adjustment wheel toward the front of the balance to move the indicator line down.

8. The balance is equilibrated or calibrated when the balance indicator and the center graduation (6) are even.