Sartorius CPA Precision Balance

Overview

The Sartorius CPA Precision Balance is a laboratory-grade analytical weighing instrument engineered for reproducible mass measurement in regulated and non-regulated research, quality control, and routine testing environments. Utilizing electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology with a monolithic sensor architecture, the CPA series delivers high linearity, exceptional long-term stability, and minimal drift under variable thermal and mechanical conditions. Unlike strain-gauge-based platforms, the EMFC principle ensures true zero-point stability and eliminates hysteresis—critical for traceable mass determination in accordance with ISO 9001, ISO/IEC 17025, and pharmacopeial standards (USP , EP 2.1.3). Designed and manufactured in Germany, each CPA balance undergoes individual factory verification against national metrological standards prior to shipment, supporting traceability to the International System of Units (SI) via accredited calibration certificates.

Key Features

• Monolithic electromagnetic force compensation sensor: Integrated single-crystal structure minimizes thermal expansion effects and enhances shock resistance without compromising sensitivity.
• isoCAL automatic internal calibration and adjustment: Motor-driven calibration mass deployment enables one-touch recalibration at user-defined intervals or temperature thresholds (±1.5 °C deviation trigger), ensuring continuous compliance with ISO/GLP documentation requirements.
• Backlit LCD display with 16 mm high digits: Optimized contrast and viewing angle guarantee legibility under diverse ambient lighting—including fume hood or glovebox installations—without parallax error.
• Bidirectional RS-232C interface: Supports real-time data streaming to LIMS, ELN, or custom databases; compatible with Sartorius DataControl software and third-party applications via ASCII protocol.
• GLP-compliant data handling: Timestamped weight records include operator ID, balance ID, environmental metadata (optional external sensor input), and calibration history—fully audit-trail ready when paired with YDP20-0CE thermal printer or certified PC software.
• Preloaded application modes: Includes percentage weighing, parts counting (with statistical evaluation), dynamic animal weighing (filtering motion-induced noise), net/gross accumulation, and 12-unit conversion (g, mg, oz, ct, etc.).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CPA Precision Balance accommodates a broad range of sample types—from fine powders and viscous liquids (using draft shields) to irregular solids and live biological specimens—within its defined weighing pan geometry and maximum capacity range (models span 120 g to 6200 g, readability 0.1 mg to 10 mg). All units comply with European CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD) and meet the mechanical and electrical safety requirements of IEC 61010-1. For regulated pharmaceutical and clinical laboratories, the balance supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through configurable electronic signatures, audit trail encryption, and role-based access control when integrated with validated Sartorius LabX software or equivalent qualified systems. Routine performance verification aligns with USP repeatability and eccentricity tests, as well as ASTM E898–22 for precision balances.

Software & Data Management

Data integrity is maintained via native support for Sartorius’ certified LabX software (optional), which provides full electronic record management including automated report generation, multi-user permission tiers, and secure cloud backup. When used with the YDP20-0CE thermal printer, all printouts embed machine-readable QR codes linking to raw data files and calibration logs. The RS-232C port permits direct integration into enterprise resource planning (ERP) workflows or automated dispensing systems without middleware. All stored data retains immutable timestamps, operator identifiers, and event flags (e.g., “calibration executed”, “door opened during weighing”), satisfying ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available).

Applications

The CPA series serves core functions across analytical chemistry, materials science, food safety testing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Typical use cases include formulation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) per batch release protocols, gravimetric preparation of standard solutions for HPLC calibration, moisture content analysis by loss-on-drying (LOD), tablet weight variation testing per USP , and density determination via pycnometry. Its robust construction and low maintenance footprint make it suitable for shared core facilities, teaching laboratories, and GMP production support areas where uptime and procedural consistency are prioritized over ultra-micro capabilities.

FAQ

Does the CPA balance support external environmental sensors (e.g., temperature/humidity)?

Yes—via optional analog input module, enabling real-time environmental compensation and enriched metadata logging.
Can isoCAL be scheduled automatically without manual intervention?

Yes—through LabX software or built-in timer function, allowing calibration triggers based on time, temperature change, or usage cycles.
Is the RS-232C interface compatible with modern USB-only computers?

Yes—using certified USB-to-RS-232 adapters with FTDI chipsets; driver installation and baud rate configuration must follow Sartorius Technical Note TN-CPA-RS232-2023.
What documentation is provided for IQ/OQ validation?

Sartorius supplies a complete Validation Support Package (VSP), including URS template, FAT/SAT protocols, and pre-validated test scripts aligned with GAMP5 guidelines.
How often should performance verification be performed between calibrations?

Per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 6.4.10, daily checks using certified reference weights are recommended; frequency may be adjusted based on risk assessment and historical stability data.