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Calibration is an essential measure to ensure the accuracy and reliability of measuring devices. They ensure that the measured values correspond to the actual physical quantities.

Calibration is essential in many areas, such as industry, science and laboratories, in order to obtain correct measurement data and maintain quality standards.

Below you will find what calibration involves and why it is important for certain devices, the types and procedures, information on intervals and logging and traceability, and the benefits and challenges of calibration work:

What is calibration?

Calibration is the process of comparing a measuring device to an accurate, traceable reference source. This determines whether the deviations of the measuring device are within the permissible tolerances. Calibration does not include the adjustment of the measuring device, but only the determination and documentation of the deviation of measurement results.

Device types that need to be calibrated:

Almost all measuring devices require regular calibration, including:

1. Temperature sensors (e.g. thermocouples, resistance thermometers).
2. Pressure gauges.
3. Electrical measuring devices (e.g. multimeters, oscilloscopes).
4. Length measuring devices (e.g. calipers, micrometers).
5. Scales and force gauges.

Why is calibration important?

1. Calibration ensures that a measuring device provides accurate and reliable values. Precise measurements are essential, especially in areas such as medicine, research and industry.
2. Inaccurate measurements can have serious consequences in safety-critical environments such as the pharmaceutical or automotive industries.
3. Many industrial processes require consistent quality. Calibrated devices help to maintain consistent product quality and minimize rejects.
4. Cross-industry standards such as ISO 9001 require regular calibration work to ensure the traceability and reliability of measured values.

Types of calibrations:

1. Factory calibration:
A calibration performed by the meter manufacturer, often during manufacturing or prior to shipment.

2. Accredited calibration:
This is where the calibration is performed by an independent, accredited testing body that is certified to international standards such as ISO/IEC 17025.

3. Internal calibration:
Many companies perform their own calibrations using internally calibrated reference devices.

Calibration procedure:

There are different methods of calibration, which vary depending on the type of device and application. The most important methods are:

1. Comparison calibration:
The measuring device to be calibrated is compared with a calibrated reference device or a standard. Deviations are documented.

2. Direct calibration:
Here, the measuring device is compared directly with a normalized standard or a physical quantity.

3. Software-supported calibration:
Many modern measuring devices, such as electronic measuring systems, can be calibrated with software support by automatically analyzing and calibrating the measured values.

Calibration intervals:

• Depending on the application and the measurement accuracy requirements, measuring devices should be calibrated regularly. Typical intervals are between six months and several years, depending on the type of measuring device, its use and the required accuracy.
• Measuring devices that are subject to heavy use or are used in extreme environments should be calibrated more frequently. This includes devices that are exposed to mechanical stress, extreme temperatures or humidity.

Logging and traceability:

• After each calibration, a calibration certificate is issued documenting the measured deviations, the measurement conditions and the reference standards used.
• The calibration must be traceable to national and international standards to ensure that the measurements are consistent and verifiable.

Advantages of regular calibration work:

• Regular calibration allows errors in measurement systems to be detected early and rectified before they cause major damage.
• Calibration work helps to optimize processes and avoid costly errors caused by incorrect measurements.
• In many industries, regular calibrations are required by law. They help to pass audits and meet regulatory requirements.

Challenges in calibration work:

• Factors such as temperature, humidity and electromagnetic interference can affect the accuracy of calibration. Calibrations must therefore be carried out under controlled conditions.
• Calibrations are often costly, especially if they are performed by accredited bodies or require elaborate reference standards.
• During calibration, the measuring device cannot be used, which can lead to downtime in some processes.

Calibration work is essential to ensure measurement accuracy, quality assurance and compliance with legal requirements. Regular calibration minimizes errors, improves process efficiency and ensures that measuring devices are accurate and reliable.

Here are the most important aspects to consider when commissioning calibration work:

When commissioning calibration work, there are some key aspects to consider to ensure that the calibration meets requirements and is carried out to a high quality. Choosing the right calibration service provider influences the accuracy, reliability and traceability of the measurements as well as compliance with standards and regulations.

• Make sure that the calibration laboratory is accredited according to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard. This standard defines international requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories and guarantees that the laboratory is capable of performing precise and reliable calibrations.
• Depending on the industry and country, additional certifications may be required, e.g. ISO 9001 for quality management systems. Make sure that the provider can produce all relevant certificates.
• Make sure that the service provider offers calibration work for the specific measuring devices used in your company. It is important that the provider has experience with the types of equipment you use, e.g. for:
• Temperature measuring devices (e.g. thermocouples, PT100).
• Pressure measuring devices.
• Electrical measuring devices (e.g. multimeters, oscilloscopes).
• Length measuring devices (e.g. calipers).
• Scales and force measuring devices.
• Check whether the provider also carries out on-site calibrations if it is logistically difficult to transport the devices to the calibration laboratory.
• The calibrations should be traceable to national or international standards so that the results can be checked at any time. This traceability guarantees that the calibrations are carried out in accordance with globally recognized standards.
• After calibration, a detailed calibration certificate should be issued documenting the calibration results, reference devices used and measurement uncertainties.
• Find out about the measurement uncertainties specified by the calibration laboratory for the various measuring instruments. The measurement uncertainty indicates how accurately the calibration was carried out. Lower uncertainty values mean a more precise calibration, which may be necessary for critical applications.
• Make sure that the calibration work provides the accuracy you require. Determine in advance what the accuracy requirements are for your application.
• An experienced calibration service provider with many years of expertise is an important factor for the reliability and quality of the calibrations. Ask about the provider's references and whether they have experience in your industry.
• Inquire about the average processing times for calibrations. In many cases, it is important that measuring devices are calibrated and available again quickly to minimize downtime in production or in the laboratory.
• Check whether the supplier offers express services if very fast calibration is required.
• Some providers offer flexible schedules for calibration work to avoid interrupting operations. Make sure that the provider can cater to your specific requirements.
• Some providers offer discounts or lower prices for long-term maintenance and calibration contracts. This can be a cost-effective solution if regular calibrations are required.
• Pay attention to whether there are additional costs, e.g. for shipping the measuring devices or for issuing calibration certificates.
• A good calibration provider will offer reliable and accessible customer support. This is important in case questions or problems arise after calibration.
• A quality provider will also offer consultancy services to develop the best calibration strategy for your equipment and requirements.
• Ask if the provider offers recommendations for calibration intervals based on the needs of your industry and the type of measurement equipment.
• Some calibration labs offer reminder services to let you know in good time when the next calibration is due. This helps to avoid missing deadlines and ensure that measuring devices are always kept up to date.
• In certain industries, such as medical technology, aerospace or the pharmaceutical industry, there are special requirements for calibration. Make sure that the supplier meets the specific standards and regulations for your industry.
• Calibration work should be documented in such a way that it meets the requirements of audits. The provider should be able to provide all necessary documentation and evidence.

When commissioning calibration work, it is crucial to choose an accredited provider with experience and an excellent reputation. Pay attention to the traceability of measurements, compliance with standards, accuracy and measurement uncertainties. Turnaround time, cost, flexibility and quality of service also play an important role in ensuring that the calibration meets the requirements of your operation and meets quality standards.

Calibration work can be ordered from various providers. Comprehensive information on calibration providers from all over the world can be found at Exportpages.