electrostatic analytical balance
Date: circa 1930
Inventory Number: 2006-1-0104
Classification: Analytical Balance
Dimensions:51 x 42 x 27.5 cm (20 1/16 x 16 9/16 x 10 13/16 in.)
Accessories: small plastic box of weights; solid aluminum cyclinder marked "3"; large cyclinders (to be connected to power source and meter) (2); plexiglass stand for cylinders; sliding weights (2)
Description:
Standard-looking wood and glass-enclosed two-pan analytical laboratory balance that has been retro-fitted by a user for the electrostatic measurement of mass by the replacement of one of the pans by a system of two metallic cylinders, one fixed to the floor of the case while the other hanging from the balance beam. It rests on leveling screws.
Pillar of balance is marked: "Prae [AS] cision / Germany". A modern notecard from inside the scale is marked: "Balances are very delicate and fragile! So handle most gently. Do not go "poking around" at balance parts." Another one on fiberboard base sheet is marked: "Turn voltage back to zero before snapping power off. Voltage may take ca 2 min. to come on. Measure diameters of cylinders on spare set (Do not take cylinders out from balance." Weight set inside balance is marked: "Physics 13b".