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HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU CALIBRATE?

by | Dec 3, 2018

Calibration Services

Reasons For Calibration

Calibration is the means of testing the accuracy and precision of measuring equipment. It is achieved by checking the accuracy of the instrument with a known value or ‘standard.’ There are multiple reasons that justify the calibration of an instrument, but it ultimately provides confidence in measurement results obtained during critical and non-critical projects. Routine calibrations are a sure way to guarantee the reliability of measuring apparatus and eliminate the chance of inaccurate readings and distorted findings.

When Should A Measuring Instrument Be Calibrated?

Unfortunately, there is no single answer to this question. Each measuring instrument has its own  

  • According to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
    • Manufacturers provide recommendations for recalibration that differ according to the type of measuring apparatus. Instructions and specifications should be followed, and maintenance conducted accordingly.
  • After a mechanical incident or accidental drop or knock, vibration or electrical shock.
    • Accidents can and do occur at any given moment. Any measuring instrument that has been knocked, dropped or has received an excessive amount of vibration or electrical shock should be calibrated.
  • Whenever observations or results are questionable.
    • Measuring apparatus should be calibrated whenever the accuracy of measurement results are suspect.
  • Monthly, quarterly or semi-annually, bi-annually or annually.
    • If an instrument is typically used for critical measurements, it is advisable to calibrate monthly or quarterly to ensure the accuracy of results. It is generally recommended that measuring instruments used for critical and non-critical work be calibrated semi-annually, bi-annually or annually.
  • Before commencing a major/ critical project.
    • Some projects demand extremely reliable and accurate measurement results. Measuring apparatus should be calibrated immediately before a critical project begins and should be isolated until use to guarantee the accuracy of results.
  • Upon completion of a major/ critical project.
    • It is recommended that measuring instruments be calibrated upon completion of any critical project as proof of the accuracy of results obtained.

Professional Calibration Services

It is also important to consider the credibility of test results. If an instrument has a near perfect or stable history, then calibration could be performed less frequently. Analog instruments are inherently more unstable than digital measuring equipment; however, digital apparatus also have analog circuitry that requires regular calibration. Instruments that have an unstable history with drifting results should be calibrated more frequently, and before and after every project as standard practice. Users should always refer to manufacturer’s guidelines and regulatory standards regarding instrument calibration. It is recommended that companies obtain the advice and services of professional calibration experts to ensure the optimum performance of their measuring equipment.

ASG X-Technologies offers comprehensive calibration services to a broad range of industries. Our technicians are trained to the highest standards and have extensive knowledge of calibration standards. For accredited calibration advice, support and service call ASG on 1300 880 414.