From the Prototype Kilogram to Mass Standards
Mass comparators are high-precision balances designed to detect the smallest differences in mass with exceptional accuracy and repeatability. They are essential tools in mass metrology, used to calibrate and verify reference weights through traceable methods under carefully controlled environmental conditions.
With advanced technology, automated load alternators, and intelligent software integration, mass comparators ensure minimal measurement uncertainty and maximum reliability for laboratories and industries requiring ultra-precise weighing.
Explore mass comparators by type
Featured Solutions and Services
Introducing the Cubis® and Cubis® II Manual Mass Comparator
Outstanding Performance Meets Your Requirements for Weight Calibration
Combining metrological weighing competences with integrated control of workflows, in alignment with International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML) R111-1 recommendations that define metrological and technical requirements for the global harmonization of mass determination.
Table-Top Robotic Mass Comparators CCR-C
Accurate Yet Compact and Cost Efficient Solutions for Mass Determination and Dissemination Processes
The CCR-Compact Robotic System is a table-top automated solution for mass determination and dissemination up to 10 g. With 120 magazine positions, it enables unattended overnight and weekend operation, increasing throughput and efficiency. Its dual robotic arm technology, featuring patented weight handlers, manages reference and test weights simultaneously with high precision and consistency.
Software ScalesNet-M
The Individual Software Solution for Professionally Calibrating Weights
Careful acquisition of weighing data and associated parameters is one of the most important criteria in mass metrology. ScalesNet-M is a professional, modular software solution for mass calibration and laboratory management, designed for applications ranging from small measurement laboratories to national metrology institutes. Developed from Sartorius’ extensive expertise in mass metrology, it ensures traceable, secure, and transparent calibration processes.
Mass Comparators, Laboratory Balances and Single or Multi-Channel Pipette Calibration Systems for Volume Calibration
Precision You Can Trust. Efficiency You Can Measure.
Accurate volume calibration is the foundation of reliable analytical results, regulatory compliance, and laboratory excellence. Sartorius empowers laboratories, calibration service providers, and metrology institutes with a complete portfolio of solutions for gravimetric volume determination in accordance with ISO 8655 and ISO 4787.
Services for Mass Comparators
Keep your mass comparators at peak performance throughout their entire lifecycle with services carried out by engineers who work directly with the original design data, firmware, and parts.
- Installation and setup - On-site installation, leveling and initial startup - for reliable results from day one
- Maintenance & contracts - Preventive maintenance and service contracts at defined intervals to stay within specification, year after year
- Repair and spare parts - Manufacturer-backed repair with original Sartorius spare parts and verified performance
Mass Metrology Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
A Sartorius Mass Comparator is a high-precision instrument specifically designed to compare test weights with reference weights. It is commonly used in national metrology institutes and calibration laboratories to disseminate the national kilogram reference, ensuring traceability, accuracy, and low uncertainty in mass measurements.
Sartorius Mass Comparators offer extremely high readability, often ranging from 0.1 µg (micrograms) to 10 mg, depending on the model. This allows for precise comparison of even minute differences in mass.
Common applications include:
- Calibration of weights according to OIML and ASTM recommendations or National Norms derivates from these. Common Classes are E2, F1 and F2 from OIML and 1,2 and 3 from ASTM
- Verification and adjustment of mass reference standards
- Quality control in pharmaceutical and high-tech manufacturing
- Mass, Density and Volume metrology-research like the dissemination of the Kilogram prototypes and working references of accuracy classes E0 and 000
- High accuracy Industrial applications like reference gas filling systems
They incorporate features such as active vibration isolation, climate monitoring (temperature, humidity, air pressure), and draft shields to minimize environmental influences on measurement results. Automated MCs also ensure that the weight to be always centered (centermatic technology) and Robotic MCs delivers the weights in the center (+/- 0.25 µg/mm). For Manual MC >40 kg Sartorius offers a centermatic accessory (YWP03C)
Yes. Sartorius offers automated mass comparator systems, such as those with robotic handlers and automated weight changing, to improve throughput and reduce operator error in high-volume calibration labs.
A mass comparator is far more precise and is designed specifically for comparing known weights to test weights, rather than general-purpose weighing. They offer lower measurement uncertainty, better repeatability, and greater resistance to environmental disturbances.
They are typically adjusted with OIML weight classes E2 and F1.
Sartorius Mass Comparators can calibrate weights from milligram to kilogram ranges, some even in tons, typically covering from E1 to M3 class weights as per OIML R-111 classification and 000 to 7 class from ASTM E617.
Sartorius comparators are either used with mass calibration QAPP or external calibration management software (like ScalesNet-M) for data logging, uncertainty calculations, and traceability documentation.
Typically recommended annually, or more frequently depending on usage and criticality. Routine servicing helps maintain measurement of integrity and compliance with accreditation standards.