Shimadzu AUW Series Analytical Balance

Overview

The Shimadzu AUW Series Analytical Balance is a high-precision mass measurement instrument engineered for laboratories requiring consistent accuracy, rapid stabilization, and robust environmental resilience. Built around Shimadzu’s proprietary Uni Bloc monolithic aluminum sensor technology, the AUW platform eliminates traditional multi-component load cell architectures—reducing mechanical hysteresis, thermal drift, and sensitivity to air currents. This design delivers exceptional long-term stability and repeatability under variable ambient conditions, including operation inside fume hoods or near HVAC vents where conventional balances exhibit instability. The series adheres to international metrological standards—including OIML R76 and NIST traceability protocols—and is designed to support GLP-compliant workflows in pharmaceutical QC, academic research, and materials science applications.

Key Features

• Uni Bloc Monolithic Sensor: A single-piece aluminum sensing element ensures minimal creep, superior shock resistance, and immunity to micro-vibrations—critical for sub-milligram weighing in non-isolated lab environments.
• Wind-Resistant Enclosure: Hermetically sealed mechanical architecture suppresses convection-induced oscillation, enabling stable measurements even at airflow velocities exceeding 0.5 m/s—validated per ISO 17025 environmental testing guidelines.
• 3-Second Stabilization Time: Full-scale settling time of ≤3 s (to ±0.1 mg) with instantaneous zero-return functionality minimizes throughput bottlenecks during high-volume sample processing.
• PSC (Predictive Self-Calibration): Continuously monitors internal temperature gradients; initiates calibration automatically upon detecting ≥0.5 °C ambient shift—ensuring consistent sensitivity without user intervention.
• Timed Calibration Scheduler: Configurable intervals (e.g., every 2, 4, or 8 hours) maintain metrological integrity across extended unattended operation—essential for 24/7 quality control labs.
• Direct-Window Data Transfer: Native Windows-compatible serial output via single RS-232 cable; no driver installation required. Supports real-time data streaming into Excel, LIMS, or custom QA databases.
• Density & Counting Modes: Optional density determination kit enables ASTM D792-compliant solid density analysis. Built-in piece counting and unit conversion (g, oz, carat, etc.) streamline inventory and formulation tasks.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AUW Series accommodates standard analytical sample containers (crucibles, vials, weigh boats) up to 80 mm diameter on its stainless-steel pan. Its draft shield design meets ISO 9001 requirements for controlled weighing environments and supports compliance with USP , EP 2.1.6, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with audit-trail-enabled software (e.g., Shimadzu LabSolutions). All models undergo factory calibration with NIST-traceable weights and include full calibration certificates compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation standards.

Software & Data Management

Data export follows ASCII-based RS-232 protocol (9600 baud, 8N1), compatible with industry-standard laboratory informatics systems. The balance supports ISO print formatting for regulatory submissions and includes timestamped internal clock logging for GLP audit trails. Optional battery module (AU-BAT) enables portable use while retaining full calibration history and time-stamped records. Firmware updates are performed via serial interface, preserving configuration integrity across maintenance cycles.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical raw material assay and blend uniformity testing (per USP )
• Reference standard preparation in accredited calibration labs
• Gravimetric titration and solvent recovery quantification
• Density characterization of polymers, ceramics, and metal powders (ASTM D792, ISO 1183)
• Micro-quantity catalyst dosing in catalysis research
• QC release testing of medical devices requiring weight-based specifications

FAQ

Does the AUW Series comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records?
Yes—when integrated with validated third-party data acquisition software supporting electronic signatures, audit trails, and role-based access control.
Can the balance perform automatic calibration without manual weight handling?
Yes—PSC and timed calibration functions operate fully autonomously using internal motorized calibration mass (standard on AUW/AUX models).
Is density determination possible without external software?
Yes—the built-in density mode calculates specific gravity directly using buoyancy principle; only the optional density kit (AU-DK) and calibrated sinker are required.
What is the recommended recalibration interval under ISO/IEC 17025?
Typical intervals range from 3 to 6 months depending on usage frequency and environmental stability; PSC and timed calibration reduce need for external verification.
Are RS-232 cables and terminal emulation settings documented?
Yes—full communication protocol specification (including command syntax, error codes, and polling formats) is provided in the English-language Operation Manual (Cat. No. SM-1001-EN).