SDL Atlas Explorer G204A-LB Precision Analytical Balance
| Brand | SDL Atlas |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Country of Origin | Imported |
| Model | G204A-LB |
| Price Range | USD 6,800 – 13,600 |
Overview
The SDL Atlas Explorer G204A-LB is a high-precision analytical balance engineered specifically for textile laboratories requiring consistent, traceable mass measurement in quality control, raw material verification, and finished fabric testing workflows. Designed around electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology, it delivers stable, drift-compensated readings under variable environmental conditions common in textile production facilities—such as ambient humidity fluctuations and low-frequency mechanical vibrations from nearby looms or finishing equipment. Its sealed weighing chamber minimizes airflow interference and particulate contamination, critical when measuring small, lightweight textile specimens (e.g., yarn snippets, fiber bundles, or dye-lot samples) where even microgram-level deviations impact colorfastness calculations or blend ratio validation. The G204A-LB operates within a certified Class I or II laboratory environment per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements and supports GLP-compliant documentation through integrated audit-trail-ready interfaces.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) sensor architecture with automatic internal calibration triggered by temperature drift detection or user-defined time intervals
- Hermetically sealed draft shield with dual-side sliding doors—optimized for rapid sample loading while maintaining thermal and aerodynamic stability during multi-specimen batch weighing
- Programmable readability modes: selectable resolution from 0.1 mg to 1 mg, enabling adaptive precision based on test method requirements (e.g., ASTM D123 for yarn mass per unit length)
- Large backlit LCD display (128 × 64 pixels) with adjustable contrast and real-time status indicators (stability, calibration state, overload warning)
- Dual serial communication ports: RS-232 (for legacy LIMS integration) and USB-B (for direct connection to Windows-based QA software or Excel data logging)
- Robust aluminum alloy housing with IP42-rated ingress protection against dust and incidental splashes—suitable for placement near wet-processing stations
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The G204A-LB accommodates standard textile test specimens including cut fabric swatches (up to 200 mm × 200 mm), spun yarn skeins (ASTM D123 loop format), and fiber tufts mounted on precision weighing boats. Its pan geometry and clearance height support optional accessories such as anti-static weighing trays (for synthetic fiber handling) and magnetic sample holders for metallic-threaded fabric fragments. Regulatory alignment includes full compliance with ISO 9001:2015 clause 7.1.5 (monitoring and measuring resources), NIST-traceable calibration certificate included, and compatibility with FDA 21 CFR Part 11–enabled software platforms when paired with SDL Atlas’ optional DataBridge Suite. All firmware adheres to IEC 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility in industrial environments.
Software & Data Management
The balance supports ASCII-based data streaming via both RS-232 and USB protocols, enabling seamless integration into textile-specific QA systems—including SDL Atlas’ own TextileTest Manager v4.x and third-party platforms like LabWare LIMS or Sartorius LabX. Each recorded measurement embeds timestamp, operator ID (via optional keypad input), balance serial number, and environmental metadata (if external温/humidity sensor is connected). Audit trail functionality logs all calibration events, zero adjustments, and parameter changes with user attribution and ISO 8601 timestamps—meeting GLP/GMP documentation integrity standards. Export formats include CSV, TXT, and XML for downstream statistical process control (SPC) analysis in Minitab or JMP.
Applications
- Quantitative determination of fabric weight (g/m²) per ISO 3801 and ASTM D3776
- Yarn linear density verification (tex, denier) using wrap reel–based sampling per ASTM D1577
- Moisture regain testing per AATCC Test Method 20A, where precise dry-mass recording post-desiccation is essential
- Chemical additive dosing validation in dyeing and finishing baths (e.g., catalyst concentration checks)
- Calibration mass verification for secondary standards used across textile metrology labs
FAQ
Does the G204A-LB meet ASTM E898 requirements for analytical balances in textile testing?
Yes—the balance satisfies ASTM E898-22 Section 5.2 criteria for readability, repeatability, and eccentric load performance when operated within its specified environmental envelope (15–30°C, ≤70% RH non-condensing).
Can the draft shield be removed for oversized textile samples?
No—the sealed chamber is integral to EMFC stability; however, optional extended-height shields (part #G204A-SH-EH) are available for specimens up to 300 mm tall.
Is USB data output compatible with macOS systems?
USB operation is class-compliant HID mode only on Windows; macOS users must employ RS-232 with a certified USB-to-serial adapter and terminal emulation software.
What is the recommended recalibration frequency for GLP audits?
Daily zero check plus weekly internal calibration is standard; external verification with certified weights every 3 months is advised per ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.4.6.
