METTLER TOLEDO AL204 / AL104 Analytical Balance

Overview

The METTLER TOLEDO AL204 and AL104 analytical balances belong to the established AL Classic series — a line engineered for precision, reliability, and operational efficiency in routine laboratory environments. These balances operate on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) principle, delivering high reproducibility and stability under standard ambient conditions (20 ±5 °C, <70 % RH, non-condensing). Designed for general-purpose quantitative analysis, they serve as foundational instruments in quality control labs, academic teaching laboratories, pharmaceutical formulation units, and chemical synthesis workflows where trace-level mass determination is required but ultra-micro sensitivity is not mandated. The AL series balances are manufactured in Switzerland and distributed globally through authorized channels, adhering to ISO 9001-certified production protocols and conforming to international metrological standards including OIML R76 and NIST Handbook 44.

Key Features

• Electromagnetic force compensation sensor architecture ensures consistent repeatability of ±0.1 mg across the full weighing range.
• Dual-model configuration: AL104 (110 g capacity) and AL204 (210 g capacity), both with 0.1 mg readability — optimized for balance between resolution and practical working range.
• Robust housing constructed from ABS engineering plastic, providing resistance to common laboratory solvents, acids, and mechanical impact without compromising structural rigidity.
• Large, high-contrast backlit LCD display with intuitive icon-based navigation and tactile keyboard layout — designed for rapid operation and reduced user error in high-throughput settings.
• Integrated RS232 serial interface supports direct data transmission to printers, PCs, or LIMS systems without additional hardware adapters.
• Standard in-use protective cover minimizes contamination risk from spilled reagents or particulates, extending service life and reducing maintenance frequency.
• External calibration capability using certified weights (100 g for AL104; 200 g for AL204) enables traceable verification per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AL204/AL104 balances accommodate a broad spectrum of sample types — from dry powders and granules to small-volume liquid containers and filter papers — within their 90 mm diameter stainless steel weighing pan. The 220 mm effective draft shield height provides adequate airflow control for measurements sensitive to convection currents, while remaining compatible with standard lab glassware such as 50 mL beakers and 100 mL volumetric flasks. All models comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) directive 2014/30/EU and low-voltage directive 2014/35/EU. Documentation includes Declaration of Conformity and factory calibration certificate traceable to national metrology institutes (e.g., METAS, NIST). For regulated environments, the balances support GLP-compliant recordkeeping when paired with METTLER TOLEDO’s LabX Lite software or third-party validated data capture solutions.

Software & Data Management

While the AL series operates autonomously via front-panel controls, its RS232 interface enables seamless integration into digital lab infrastructures. Raw weight data — including timestamp, net/gross/tare values, and application mode identifier — can be streamed in ASCII format to external databases or Excel-based reporting tools. When connected to METTLER TOLEDO’s free LabX Lite software, users gain access to basic audit trail functionality, customizable report templates, and automated pass/fail evaluation against pre-set tolerance limits. Though not natively 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, the system supports electronic signature implementation through validated middleware configurations meeting FDA and EMA expectations for non-critical QC applications.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical: Active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) dispensing, excipient ratio verification, and tablet weight uniformity testing per USP <905>.
• Chemistry: Stoichiometric reagent preparation, gravimetric titration endpoint confirmation, and catalyst loading in synthetic reaction setups.
• Food & Agriculture: Moisture content determination via loss-on-drying (LOD), nutrient concentration calibration, and feed additive blending verification.
• Education: Undergraduate analytical chemistry labs requiring robust, entry-level instrumentation aligned with ASTM E1153 and ISO 17025 pedagogical guidelines.
• Environmental Testing: Filter mass change analysis for total suspended solids (TSS), particulate matter (PM₁₀/PM_2.5) quantification, and soil moisture assessment.

FAQ

What is the difference between AL104 and AL204?
The AL104 offers a maximum capacity of 110 g, whereas the AL204 extends to 210 g — both maintain identical readability (0.1 mg) and repeatability (0.1 mg). Linearity error differs slightly: ±0.2 mg for AL104 and ±0.3 mg for AL204.
Is internal calibration available on these models?
No — AL204 and AL104 require external calibration using certified weights. Internal motorized calibration is not implemented in this generation.
Can these balances be used in regulated GMP environments?
Yes, provided calibration and performance verification follow documented SOPs, and data handling complies with organizational validation policies. Full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance requires supplemental software validation.
Does the balance include draft shield assembly?
Yes — a full-height sliding glass draft shield with 220 mm effective clearance is integrated into the base unit.
What is the warranty coverage for AL series balances?
Standard manufacturer warranty is 2 years parts and labor, extendable to 3 years upon registration with METTLER TOLEDO’s global service network.