METTLER TOLEDO MR204/A Analytical Balance
| Key | Brand: METTLER TOLEDO |
|---|---|
| Model | MR204/A |
| Maximum Capacity | 220 g |
| Readability | 0.1 mg (1/10,000 g) |
| Calibration | Internal |
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Balance Type | Analytical Balance |
Overview
The METTLER TOLEDO MR204/A Analytical Balance is a high-precision laboratory instrument engineered for routine quantitative analysis in regulated and research environments. Operating on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) principle, it delivers stable, drift-free mass measurements with exceptional repeatability and linearity across its full weighing range. Designed to meet the stringent requirements of analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical quality control, and materials science laboratories, the MR204/A provides 0.1 mg readability (1/10,000 g) and a maximum capacity of 220 g—optimized for applications demanding trace-level accuracy without compromising robustness or operational efficiency.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) sensor architecture ensures high reproducibility, minimal thermal drift, and long-term stability under variable ambient conditions.
- Internal calibration system with motorized calibration mass enables automated, user-initiated calibration at any time—fully compliant with ISO 8655-6 and USP <41> requirements for balance verification.
- SmartPan™ weighing pan design minimizes air current interference and improves settling time by up to 30% compared to conventional pans, enhancing throughput in high-volume QC workflows.
- Integrated levelControl™ system with visual bubble indicator and adjustable feet ensures rapid, precise leveling—critical for maintaining measurement integrity on non-ideal lab surfaces.
- RS232 and USB interfaces support direct data transfer to LIMS, ELN, or Excel-based reporting systems; optional Ethernet module available for network integration.
- GLP/GMP-compliant documentation features include automatic print/log of calibration records, adjustment history, and user-defined ID tagging for audit-ready traceability.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MR204/A accommodates standard sample containers—including weighing boats, crucibles, and volumetric flasks—within its 220 g capacity limit. Its draft shield (sold separately as part of the optional SCS kit) meets ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 environmental control recommendations for precision weighing. The balance complies with international regulatory frameworks including ASTM E898–22 (Standard Guide for Selection and Use of Laboratory Balances), ISO 17025:2017 (clause 6.4.3 on equipment suitability), and EU GMP Annex 11 (data integrity requirements). All firmware versions are validated per METTLER TOLEDO’s internal software lifecycle protocol aligned with ICH Q9 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles.
Software & Data Management
The MR204/A operates with built-in application modes—including parts counting, percentage weighing, density determination, and formulation—with configurable presets stored locally. When connected to METTLER TOLEDO LabX® software (via optional license), users gain full audit trail functionality: timestamped operator logins, electronic signatures, real-time deviation alerts, and encrypted database storage compliant with ALCOA+ (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate) data integrity standards. Export formats include CSV, PDF, and XML—compatible with enterprise systems requiring structured metadata for regulatory submissions.
Applications
- Pharmaceutical QC labs performing active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) assay, excipient blending verification, and reference standard preparation per USP <1251>.
- Academic and industrial research groups conducting gravimetric analysis, stoichiometric reagent dispensing, and catalyst loading quantification.
- Food and beverage testing facilities executing moisture content determination (AOAC 950.46), ash residue analysis (AOAC 923.03), and nutritional labeling compliance checks.
- Environmental laboratories performing filter weighing for particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) analysis per EPA Method 201A and ISO 12103-1.
- Materials science labs calibrating reference weights, characterizing nanomaterial yields, and validating dispersion uniformity in composite formulations.
FAQ
What does “0.1 mg readability” mean in practice?
It indicates the smallest mass increment the balance can display—equivalent to one ten-thousandth of a gram. This resolution supports accurate weighing of low-mass samples typical in analytical chemistry, such as standards, titrants, or micro-dosed APIs.
Is internal calibration sufficient for GLP/GMP compliance?
Yes—provided calibration is performed at defined intervals (e.g., daily pre-use), documented with operator ID, and verified against traceable reference standards per SOP. The MR204/A’s internal calibration meets ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 metrological requirements when integrated into a formal quality system.
Can the MR204/A be integrated into a networked laboratory environment?
Yes—via optional Ethernet interface and LabX software, enabling centralized configuration management, remote diagnostics, and synchronized firmware updates across multiple instruments in multi-site operations.
Does the balance support dynamic weighing or vibration compensation?
No—the MR204/A is optimized for static, stable weighing conditions. For environments with mechanical vibration or airflow disturbances, installation on a dedicated anti-vibration table and use of an approved draft shield are strongly recommended.
What maintenance is required to sustain long-term accuracy?
Routine cleaning of the weighing chamber and pan using lint-free swabs and isopropyl alcohol; annual performance verification by an accredited service provider using NIST-traceable weights; and periodic inspection of leveling feet and draft shield seals per METTLER TOLEDO Service Manual SM-MR204.
