Shimadzu AU-SMK Precision Density Balance
| Brand | Shimadzu |
|---|---|
| Origin | Japan |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | AU-SMK |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
| Weighing Capacity | 120–320 g |
| Minimum Readability | 0.1 mg |
| Density Resolution | 0.0001 g/cm³ |
| Density Measurement Modes | Solid (fixed-density method), Liquid (requires optional sinker P/N 321-60640) |
Overview
The Shimadzu AU-SMK Precision Density Balance is an integrated analytical instrument engineered for high-accuracy density determination of solid and liquid samples in regulated laboratory environments. It operates on the principle of Archimedean buoyancy, combining high-resolution mass measurement with precisely calibrated displacement volume calculation to deliver traceable density values compliant with ISO 1183-1, ASTM D792, and USP . Unlike conventional balances, the AU-SMK integrates a dedicated density module—comprising a built-in draft shield, precision suspension hook assembly, and temperature-stabilized weighing chamber—to minimize environmental drift and ensure reproducibility across repeated measurements. Designed specifically for QC/QA laboratories in pharmaceuticals, polymers, ceramics, and fine chemicals, the system supports both fixed-density (solid) and immersion-based (liquid) protocols without requiring external software or manual computation.
Key Features
- High-stability electromagnetic force compensation sensor with 0.1 mg readability and <0.0001 g/cm³ density resolution
- Dual-mode density calculation engine: automatic solid density (via air-weight/water-weight ratio) and liquid density (via sinker displacement method)
- Integrated environmental monitoring: real-time ambient temperature and humidity logging synchronized with each measurement record
- Modular hardware architecture—compatible with Shimadzu’s optional liquid density sinker (P/N 321-60640), certified stainless-steel sample pans, and anti-static ionizer accessories
- GLP-compliant operation: full audit trail including operator ID, timestamp, calibration history, and raw weight data per measurement event
- RS-232 and USB interfaces supporting direct integration into LIMS and ELN platforms under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AU-SMK accommodates solids ranging from granules and powders to irregularly shaped metal or polymer specimens (max. dimensions: Ø80 mm × H120 mm). For liquids, compatibility extends to aqueous solutions, organic solvents, oils, and low-viscosity suspensions—provided the optional sinker is used and temperature equilibration is maintained per ISO 5725 guidelines. All density results are traceable to NIST-certified reference standards. The instrument meets IEC 61000-4 electromagnetic immunity requirements and carries CE marking for conformity with EU Measurement Instruments Directive (MID) Annex MI-001. Calibration verification follows Shimadzu’s internal SOPs aligned with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and JPAL accreditation criteria.
Software & Data Management
The AU-SMK operates natively via Shimadzu’s proprietary DensityCalc™ firmware (v3.2+), eliminating dependency on PC-based applications. Measurement workflows are fully configurable: users define sample type, material class, temperature correction coefficient (e.g., water density at measured T), and pass/fail tolerance limits. Each result exports as a structured CSV file containing raw air weight, immersed weight, temperature, calculated density, standard deviation (n=3), and uncertainty budget per GUM (JCGM 100:2008). Audit logs are encrypted and time-stamped, supporting retrospective review during GLP/GMP inspections. Optional Shimadzu LabSolutions™ Link enables centralized instrument fleet management, remote calibration scheduling, and automated report generation compliant with Annex 11 and ALCOA+ data integrity principles.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical excipient qualification: density verification of lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, and mannitol per USP monographs
- Polymer quality control: batch-to-batch consistency testing of polyethylene, PET, and PTFE pellets against ISO 1183 specifications
- Electrolyte formulation in battery R&D: precise density mapping of LiPF₆ solutions across concentration gradients (0.5–1.5 mol/L)
- Ceramic green body inspection: detection of porosity deviations in sintered alumina substrates prior to firing
- Food ingredient authentication: differentiation of honey adulteration via anomalous density shifts outside 1.42–1.45 g/cm³ range
FAQ
What density measurement standards does the AU-SMK support?
It complies with ISO 1183-1 (plastics), ASTM D792 (rubber and plastics), USP (pharmaceutical density), and JIS K 7112 (Japanese industrial standards).
Is the liquid density sinker included with the base unit?
No—the sinker (P/N 321-60640) is an optional accessory and must be ordered separately for liquid-phase measurements.
Can the AU-SMK perform temperature-compensated density calculations?
Yes—users input measured bath temperature or connect an external Pt100 probe; the firmware applies ISO 3696-grade water density tables for automatic correction.
Does the instrument support multi-language UI and regulatory reporting?
The interface supports English, Japanese, Chinese, German, and French. All reports include mandatory metadata fields required for FDA, EMA, and PMDA submissions.
What is the recommended recalibration interval under GLP conditions?
Shimadzu recommends daily zero calibration, weekly span verification using certified weights, and full performance verification every 6 months—or after any mechanical impact or environmental relocation.
