(2) The materials are listed in the order of their preference with regard to stability.
The first four materials are also considered applicable for use in smaller weights,
in addition to materials such as gold (alloy), tantalum, and aluminum. It is
important to assume that the total error caused by changes in any of the materials
in the preceding list does not exceed one to ten parts per million (ppm).
5. Certification and Adjustments
a. Calibration of weights.
(1) Clean weight to be tested with lint-free cloth moistened with alcohol or
toluene.
Never open weights while cleaning them; metal shims or small weights for adjustment
NOTE:
are easily lost.
(2) Never submerge weights in any fluid.
(3) Never use any adhesive material on weights.
(4) Standard weights should be cleaned with alcohol only when fingerprints are
visible.
(5) Always handle standard weights by lifters and tweezers. Stress safety in
handling weights.
(6) Allow weights to stabilize to ambient temperature four hours for weights of 1
pound and less, and 12 hours for weights over 1 pound.
b. Adjustments of Weights.
(1) Knob-type weights - unscrew knob and add or remove weight.
(2) Sealer-type weights - remove or add weight as necessary and reseal.
(3) Round-type weights - remove weight by drilling holes.
(4) Flat, thin weights - weight should be removed from edges of weight. No
weight can be added.
c. Methods of Adjustments.
In the military a certificate will be used or a weight will have a DA Label 80 on it to
certify its accuracy. A weight may change in value for different reasons: locality of
weighing (i.e. the temperature or humidity varies significantly), damage to the weight, or
several other different reasons. If a weight should change in value, can it still be used?
Definitely, if this happens, weight may be added to or taken away from these standards. If
a weight were over in tolerance, what could be done to bring it back within tolerance?
One method of taking away weight from a standard is simply to drill out a specified
amount from the standard. On the other hand a certain amount of weight may have to be
added to the standard. There normally is a well in the weight in which small weights may
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