Sartorius M-Pact Precision and Analytical Balance
| Brand | Sartorius |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | M-Pact |
| Capacity | up to 6,200 g |
| Readability | down to 0.1 mg |
Overview
The Sartorius M-Pact Precision and Analytical Balance is a rigorously engineered entry-level weighing instrument developed by Sartorius AG, a German manufacturer with over 150 years of metrological expertise. Built upon the foundational principles of electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC), the M-Pact delivers stable, repeatable mass measurements across its full capacity range — from high-capacity precision applications (up to 6,200 g) to fine analytical work (with readability down to 0.1 mg). Its design philosophy centers on operational robustness, intuitive workflow integration, and compliance-ready functionality — making it particularly suited for teaching laboratories, quality control environments in contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), and routine R&D settings where operator training time and procedural consistency are critical constraints.
Key Features
- Electromagnetic force compensation (EMFC) sensor architecture ensuring long-term stability, minimal drift, and high reproducibility under variable ambient conditions.
- Integrated internal calibration system with motor-driven calibration mass, enabling fully automated recalibration at user-defined intervals or upon temperature deviation detection — compliant with ISO 9001 and GLP documentation requirements.
- Large, recessed stainless-steel weighing pan (standard dimensions: 180 × 180 mm) optimized for voluminous samples and container handling without edge-loading errors.
- Intuitive, icon-driven touchscreen interface with multilingual support (English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese), designed to minimize operator training time and reduce input error rates.
- Modular connectivity suite including standard RS232, optional USB device/host, and Ethernet interfaces — compatible with LIMS integration and centralized instrument management platforms.
- IP54-rated housing for resistance against dust ingress and incidental liquid splashes, supporting use in non-sterile but controlled laboratory environments.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The M-Pact accommodates diverse sample forms — solid powders, granules, pre-weighed vials, crucibles, and small assemblies — thanks to its wide pan geometry and low-profile draft shield compatibility (optional accessory). It supports dynamic weighing modes including parts counting, percentage weighing, density determination (with optional kit), and checkweighing. From a regulatory perspective, the balance meets essential requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for calibration traceability, conforms to OIML R 76-1 (2021) for non-automatic weighing instruments, and provides audit-trail-capable operation when paired with Sartorius LabX software (sold separately). Its firmware architecture supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures and user access controls when deployed in GMP-regulated environments.
Software & Data Management
While the M-Pact operates autonomously via its onboard interface, seamless data integrity is achieved through optional integration with Sartorius LabX™ software. LabX enables full method definition, real-time data capture, automatic metadata tagging (operator ID, timestamp, balance serial number), and export to CSV, PDF, or directly into enterprise systems via ODBC or API. All measurement events — including calibration logs, tare actions, and stability triggers — are time-stamped and stored locally with tamper-evident encryption. The balance also supports direct printing to Sartorius-certified thermal printers for GLP-compliant hard-copy records.
Applications
- Academic instruction in chemistry, biology, and materials science laboratories, where ergonomic design and consistent repeatability reduce learning curves.
- Raw material receipt inspection and batch release testing in pharmaceutical and food-grade manufacturing facilities operating under ISO 22000 or ICH Q7 frameworks.
- Preparation of standard solutions and reference standards in environmental testing labs accredited to ISO/IEC 17025.
- Quality assurance workflows involving formulation checks, tablet weight uniformity, and excipient dispensing in pilot-scale production.
- Field-deployable use in mobile labs due to its shock-resistant construction and battery-powered operation mode (optional).
FAQ
Does the M-Pact require external calibration weights?
No — it features an integrated motorized internal calibration mechanism that uses a certified internal mass standard; external weights are only required for periodic verification or accreditation audits.
Is the M-Pact suitable for ISO 17025-accredited testing?
Yes — when used with documented calibration certificates (traceable to national metrology institutes), validated procedures, and appropriate environmental monitoring, it fulfills metrological requirements for accredited weighing tasks.
Can the M-Pact connect to a networked LIMS?
Yes — via Ethernet or RS232 with configurable ASCII or Modbus RTU protocols; LabX software provides native LIMS and ERP integration pathways.
What is the warm-up time before achieving full specification accuracy?
Less than 30 minutes under typical lab conditions (20–25 °C, <60 % RH); stabilization time may extend slightly in environments with significant thermal gradients.
Is the weighing pan removable for cleaning?
Yes — the stainless-steel pan is tool-free detachable and autoclavable (up to 121 °C, 20 min), supporting hygiene-critical applications in biopharma and clinical research settings.
