If a plate pool contains different melting points, one total hides how each group is used. If the count tracks stock, cycles or preparation, keep the groups on separate lines.
Fields that distinguish groups
- Plate IDs and labelled melting points may differ.
- Track cycle counts separately for each group.
- Use the same definition of preparation time for both groups.
Split the table
Put plate ID, melting-point group, date and completed cycle together in the record. If shared rack or cabinet space matters, report that capacity as a separate physical measure; do not merge the plate groups into one usage total.
Investigate mismatches. If the label and container loading record disagree, log a separate matching error. A count table alone does not show the effect of a wrong plate on goods.
Show usage by group
At month end, calculate cycle count and preparation time measured by the same method for each group. Keep raw plate counts too; cycles and stock answer different questions.
Different melting points belong on different record lines.
When a group is added
Record the start date and IDs when a new melting-point group enters the pool. Do not allocate earlier totals to it; compare trends only across matching groups and periods.
Check the floor matches the record
The group label in the record, mark on the plate and rack location should agree. If a sample check finds a mismatch, review the related count lines and loading records together.
