A&D GP-12K/20K/30K Series Precision Benchtop Balances

Overview

The A&D GP-12K/20K/30K Series are precision benchtop balances engineered for high-capacity, high-reproducibility mass measurement in regulated industrial, pharmaceutical, and quality control environments. Utilizing A&D’s proprietary SHS (Super Hybrid Sensor) technology—a monolithic electromagnetic force compensation transducer with integrated thermal drift compensation—the series delivers rapid stabilization (≤1.5 seconds), exceptional linearity, and long-term repeatability under variable ambient conditions. Designed to meet the metrological rigor required for GLP, GMP, and ISO-compliant workflows, each unit features an internal motorized calibration system with traceable reference weights, eliminating manual intervention and ensuring consistent accuracy across daily operations. The robust mechanical architecture—comprising die-cast aluminum alloy housing and a large 304 stainless steel weighing pan—supports demanding applications ranging from raw material receipt inspection to formulation batch verification and in-process weight checks.

Key Features

• SHS sensor technology: High-sensitivity electromagnetic force restoration mechanism with real-time temperature compensation, enabling stable readings even during ambient fluctuations.
• Internal automatic calibration: Motor-driven calibration weights activated via single-key command or scheduled intervals; full traceability with calibration history stored per GLP requirements.
• IP65-rated base unit: Dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets—ideal for wet-process areas, cleanrooms with frequent sanitation, and manufacturing floors requiring washdown capability.
• Blue fluorescent VFD display: High-contrast, wide-view-angle screen with adjustable brightness; supports simultaneous display of gross/net/tare values, status icons, and unit indicators.
• Ergonomic dual-mount design: Integrated leveling feet and optional floor stand (GP-S models) allow flexible deployment—either on laboratory benches or integrated into production lines with separated display and weighing modules.
• Comprehensive data integrity tools: Built-in audit trail for calibration events, user-defined ID entry, time/date stamping, and configurable auto-zero and auto-power-off functions to reduce operator variability.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The GP-Series accommodates diverse sample forms—including bulk powders, packaged components, liquid containers, and irregularly shaped parts—thanks to its large stainless steel pan (280 × 360 mm for GP-30K) and optimized wind draft shielding. All models comply with international metrological standards including OIML R76-1 (2021), ANSI/NCSL Z540-1, and ISO/IEC 17025 for testing and calibration laboratories. For regulated industries, the balance supports 21 CFR Part 11–ready data export when used with WinCT software (version 4.0+), providing electronic signatures, secure user access levels, and immutable audit logs. Full documentation packages—including factory calibration certificates, uncertainty budgets, and installation qualification (IQ) templates—are available upon request to support GMP validation protocols.

Software & Data Management

WinCT software (Windows-compatible, USB/RS-232 interface) serves as the central hub for data acquisition, statistical analysis, and regulatory reporting. It enables direct download of all stored records—including timestamped weighings, GLP logs, comparator results, and counting session metadata—with CSV, Excel, and PDF export options. Advanced features include real-time SPC charting (X-bar/R, Cp/Cpk), customizable report headers with lab/company branding, and automated backup to network drives. When configured with WinCT’s “Validation Mode,” the software enforces role-based permissions, electronic signature capture for critical actions (e.g., calibration confirmation), and tamper-evident file hashing—ensuring full alignment with FDA and EMA expectations for electronic records.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: Raw material verification, tablet/capsule counting, blend uniformity sampling, and final product checkweighing under GMP Annex 11 controls.
• Food & beverage QA/QC: Portion control validation, ingredient batching, yield reconciliation, and HACCP-mandated weight audits.
• Chemical & polymer processing: Catalyst dosing, resin mixing ratios, and drum-filling verification with ±0.1 g resolution at multi-kilogram loads.
• Automotive and electronics assembly: Component kitting verification, PCB weight screening for solder paste consistency, and battery cell mass sorting.
• Contract laboratories: ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing services requiring documented traceability, environmental monitoring integration, and inter-laboratory comparison readiness.

FAQ

Does the GP-Series support external calibration with certified weights?
Yes—manual calibration using external Class F1 or better reference weights is fully supported via dedicated calibration mode, with results logged alongside internal calibration events.
Can multiple users be assigned distinct access levels in WinCT?
Yes—WinCT v4.2+ supports up to 10 user profiles with configurable permissions for calibration, data export, report generation, and system configuration.
Is analog output (e.g., 4–20 mA) available as a factory option?
Analog output is available as an optional module (GP-AO Kit) for continuous process integration with PLCs or SCADA systems.
How is temperature drift compensated during extended operation?
The SHS sensor incorporates dual thermistors and adaptive firmware algorithms that continuously monitor thermal gradients across the load cell structure and dynamically adjust gain parameters in real time.
Are service manuals and firmware update tools publicly accessible?
Authorized service partners receive full technical documentation, diagnostic utilities, and firmware update packages through A&D’s Secure Partner Portal; end-users may request limited maintenance guides via certified distributor channels.