Instrument Calibration | Detailed Explanation
Instrument Calibration is the process of configuring the instrument
to provide a result for the samples within an acceptable range. Although
the exact process can vary from product to product, the calibration process
usually involves using the instrument to test samples of one or more known
values called "Calibrator".
Calibration is a comparison between a known measurement
(standard) and a measurement using your instrument. Typically, the accuracy of
a standard must be ten times the accuracy of the device being measured.For
calibration of scale, a calibrated slip gauge is used
Need of Instrument Calibration
In today's industry, more devices are already being used for
detectable accuracy, yet the accuracy of the instrument can be the difference
between ruining the entire measurement process and getting it right the first
time. If you need it or not, the question is ultimately what you and you or
your quality auditing team need to decide.
The rules do not prescribe which equipment to calibrate when
and when it should not. This is certainly in addition to those determined by
your own quality management systems. If your company's process involves
measurement using any type of instrument, then your standards may require that
you can prove that the instrument provides accurate readings and can rely on it
to do what it mean to measure. If this is the case, then annual calibration is
common practice and will most definitely be necessary for calibration.
Importance of Instrument Calibration
The importance of calibration is not only to check that the
displayed values of the instrument are within the specification, but also to
help you understand the inaccuracy of the displayed values at specific points
of measurement.
When you are calibrating an instrument, it is best to
measure at the points of measurement. For example, food caterers and retailers
require that they keep hot-kept food at 63 ° C or above to avoid the
cultivation of harmful bacteria, so calibrating a thermometer at 63 ° C would
be appropriate.
A calibration certificate proves that an instrument has been
checked and verified against these critical points of measurement, and will
list any errors in that instrument, which assure you to demonstrate to an
auditor or client that your Instrument reading is within specified accuracy, and
is fit for your desired application. The certificate will be available for most
instruments that are used in a professional environment where traceable
accuracy is required.
In a professional environment, calibrating an instrument
based on its purchase and based on annual re-calibration as per standard
procedure, but if your instrument application demands a shorter duration
between calibrations, then often setting 'automatic re-Set' is the best. It is
good practice, also a Call process with qualified laboratory technician also
help, In this way you will always be reminded that when your instrument is
about to be calibrated, and without your prior knowledge the accuracy of the
instrument will not be compromised.
If you are using an instrument that is not calibrated, then
it is assumed that your measurements may be considered unreliable and
incomplete to national or international standards in a professional
environment.
Why Calibration is Required?
Virtually all appliances degrade over time in a rough
fashion. As components age, they lose stability and drift from their published
specifications. Normal handling can also adversely affect calibration, and
rough handling can throw equipment out of calibration altogether, even if it
appears to be physically fine. Regular calibration assures that the equipment
consistently meets the required specification. Having a well-designed and
organized calibration program often results in quality, productive efficiency
and increased revenue.
When we need Instruments Calibration?
Calibration intervals can vary within an industry or plant.
The frequency depends on the equipment and application. As a rule, however,
calibration must be done at least once a year. In more critical applications,
the frequency will be much higher.
Who performs the Instrument calibration?
When planning and implementing a calibration program, it is
important to use a provider who is qualified and follows a national standard. Choosing
a company to the ISO 17025 standard is the best option, and in some industries,
required. ISO / IEC 17025: 2005 specifically refers to the requirements of
testing and calibration laboratories and lays down very stringent standards for
those using it, Accredited calibration providers, such as Precision Calibration
Systems, monitor through their accrediting bodies with very specific quality
management system requirements, with regular audits and reviews. What makes
Precision Calibration Systems stand out from the competition is our customer accountability
and turnaround time
