Sartorius GL224i-1SCN Analytical Balance

Overview

The Sartorius GL224i-1SCN is a precision analytical balance engineered for routine laboratory weighing tasks requiring high reproducibility and regulatory traceability. Based on electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) technology, it delivers stable, drift-free measurements under standard ambient conditions (10–40 °C, ≤80 % RH non-condensing). Its 0.1 mg readability and 220 g maximum capacity align with Class I accuracy requirements per OIML R 76-1 and meet the minimum performance criteria defined in USP <41> for analytical weighing applications. The balance is designed for use in quality control laboratories, academic research settings, and pharmaceutical manufacturing environments where compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when paired with compliant software), and GxP documentation standards is mandatory.

Key Features

• Internal calibration system with motor-driven mass actuation—eliminates manual calibration weights and reduces operator dependency.
• Overload protection circuitry safeguards the load cell against mechanical shock or accidental overloading up to 150 % of nominal capacity.
• Integrated bottom-loading hook for density determination and magnetic susceptibility measurements using optional accessories (e.g., density kit YDK01).
• Multi-language interface supporting 11 languages—including English, German, Spanish, Chinese (Traditional/Simplified), Japanese, and Korean—enabling seamless deployment across multinational facilities.
• 15 mm high-contrast white-backlit LCD display with anti-glare surface, optimized for readability under variable lighting conditions.
• Dedicated application modes: standard weighing, percentage weighing, piece counting, density measurement, and unit conversion—all accessible via intuitive soft-key navigation.
• RS232 serial interface (DB25 female) enables direct connection to LIMS, ELN, or custom data acquisition systems; supports ASCII protocol with configurable baud rate (up to 115.2 kbps).
• Security lock slot compatible with standard Kensington-style cables for physical asset protection in shared lab environments.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The GL224i-1SCN accommodates samples up to 220 g placed on its Ø90 mm stainless-steel weighing pan. Its compact draft shield (height: 160 mm) provides adequate airflow management for low-volatility solids while maintaining rapid stabilization (<2.5 s). The balance conforms to international metrological standards including OIML R 76-1 (Class I), ISO 9001:2015 clause 7.6, and ASTM E898–20 for laboratory balance verification. When operated with documented calibration records, environmental logs, and audit-trail-enabled software (e.g., Sartorius LabX), it satisfies GLP and GMP data integrity requirements per ALCOA+ principles. Internal calibration traceability is maintained through factory-certified reference masses, with calibration certificates available upon request (ISO/IEC 17025 accredited).

Software & Data Management

While the GL224i-1SCN operates as a standalone instrument, its RS232 interface allows full integration into Sartorius LabX™ software for automated data capture, electronic signature, and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. LabX enables user-defined workflows, real-time statistical analysis (mean, SD, CV%), automatic report generation (PDF/Excel), and secure database archiving with time-stamped audit trails. For basic data export, the balance supports auto-print functionality via connected serial printers and can transmit weight values directly to Excel or text files using terminal emulation tools (e.g., Tera Term, PuTTY). All internal memory stores up to 999 weighing events with timestamps, user IDs, and stability flags—accessible via query commands.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical formulation: active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) dispensing, excipient ratio verification, and tablet weight uniformity testing per USP <905>.
• Chemical synthesis: stoichiometric reagent dosing, catalyst loading, and yield calculation in R&D and pilot-scale labs.
• Materials science: powder density profiling, gravimetric moisture analysis (with optional drying oven), and catalyst loading consistency checks.
• Food & beverage QA: nutritional labeling verification, additive concentration validation, and batch release testing per ISO 22000.
• Academic teaching labs: fundamental metrology instruction, uncertainty propagation exercises, and comparative weighing methodology studies.

FAQ

What is the minimum sample weight this balance can measure reliably?
The minimum weight is determined by the balance’s repeatability (0.1 mg) and required measurement uncertainty (typically ±0.1 %). For a 0.1 % tolerance, the minimum weight is 100 mg. This value must be verified under actual lab conditions per USP <41> and documented during risk-based method validation.
Does the GL224i-1SCN support external calibration with certified weights?
Yes—it accepts external calibration via standard Class E2 or better weights. However, internal calibration is recommended for daily operation to minimize handling errors and maintain traceability to factory-set references.
Is the balance suitable for use in regulated environments subject to FDA or EMA audits?
Yes—when used with LabX software, configured audit trails, and validated SOPs, it fulfills data integrity requirements under 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11. Full qualification documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ templates) is available from Sartorius Technical Services.
Can the balance operate on battery power?
No—the GL224i-1SCN requires continuous AC power. It does not support internal or external rechargeable batteries; the YRB11Z battery pack referenced in legacy documentation applies only to portable models (e.g., CPA series), not the GL-i platform.
How often should internal calibration be performed?
Per ISO/IEC 17025 and GxP guidelines, internal calibration should occur at startup, after relocation, following significant ambient temperature shifts (>5 °C), and at user-defined intervals (e.g., every 2 hours during continuous operation). Automatic calibration scheduling is supported via LabX.