The integrity of weights and measurements depends on the calibration of your measuring instruments. Any process undertaken to calibrate instruments checks the performance of a measuring tool. Calibration is the change of an instrument’s configuration. Calibrated instruments generate measuring data within a reasonable accuracy range.
What Instrument Calibration Entails
Calibrating begins with the testing of a measuring instrument to confirm its accuracy. The accuracy test is compared to a set and acceptable range of results. When a discrepancy in a measurement arises, the instrument undergoes configuration or resetting. These processes restore the measuring equipment’s accuracy, making it operate efficiently and safely. Such equipment includes speedometers, scales, temperature probes, and flow meters.
After calibration, the values of the measurements should vary within a range. Testing equipment or a calibrator defines the normal range. The calibrating engineer uses a calibrator to create a standard environment for accuracy. The equipment undergoes correction, repair, and adjustment whenever a deviation occurs. The calibrator also needs periodic calibration.
The Need For Calibration Of Equipment
Calibration ensures that new measuring equipment works according to expected standards. Also, sometimes instruments need calibration due to long periods of disuse. Other times the calibration is part of the maintenance of measuring equipment after a specified usage period.
The equipment also needs calibration after exposure to harsh or rough conditions. It also becomes necessary once the instrument undergoes modification and repair. Calibration is a legal requirement required by local and international standards. It extends the durability of measuring equipment. Durability depends on periodic repair and maintenance of equipment. Due to calibration, instruments give reliable readings through their enhanced performance.
Besides protecting the equipment, it makes organizations productive and efficient. It also makes them profitable and saves time and money. It helps businesses whose operations depend on curating accurate data. Such include transportation and fleet companies. Also, those that manufacture, sell, or buy products need it.
Institutions found to generate inaccurate measurement data face severe litigation. Imagine the repercussions of measurement errors, such as in the pharmaceutical industry. In temperature-dependent operations, wrong settings can destroy the quality of perishables. Wrong measurements also dent their reputation as clients view the wrong readings as dishonest or fraudulent. Businesses wishing to establish long-term relationships invest in calibration. It promotes customer satisfaction.
Setting The Frequency Of Calibration
The scheduling of calibration of instruments mainly depends on their frequency of use. Some firms have a pre-set calibration schedule. It can run on a monthly, semi-annually, or quarterly basis.
Calibration timespans depend on if the business generates both essential and non-critical measurements. In such a case, annual calibration works best. Statutory requirements also dictate that all measuring equipment undergo annual or biannual calibration. Calibration intervals also depend on the recommendations of the instrument’s manufacturer.
An organization should conduct the exercise before and after a major measuring project. The measuring equipment may accidentally take a hit that destabilizes its settings. Then it would require checking and resetting to expected levels of performance. Some measuring equipment gives gross measurement checks. Such include voltage checkers and need no calibration.
When done early or as required, calibration averts the need for costly repairs later. These damages arise from unreliable measurements. Damages may occur on the measuring equipment. They may destroy truck parts that may break from overloading through erroneous weighing.
Conclusion
The need for calibration arises as the accuracy of measuring instruments deviates gradually. Instruments undergo mechanical shocks and face extreme operating conditions. The accuracy of readings also deviates due to lapses of disuse of the equipment. Calibration eliminates errors in measurements. It facilitates the setting of measuring instruments to expected levels of accuracy. Calibration directly impacts the integrity of equipment and the businesses using them.
