Calibration is a process in which the accuracy of a device is measured or compared with standard measurements. In the measurement, the accuracy of the standard device should be ten times the accuracy of the device that is being measured. Most of the organisations accept the accuracy ration of 3:1 too; since it sometimes isn’t easy to match the standard ratio. The difference between the standard device accuracy and measurement device accuracy is termed as an error in the device.
Factors Affecting the Accuracy of a Device
- The environment in which the device is used.
- Electric or mechanical shocks.
- Type of the instrument.
- Accuracy of the device can also be affected due to wear and Tear.
Benefits of Calibration
- Calibration of the device ensures that the device is working properly and producing accurate results.
- It determines the precision, reliability, and measurement of the device.
- It determines if the device is reliable enough to be trusted.
- Maintains the standard of quality check which is important to any business who need accurate results.
When to implement a calibration procedure for measuring instruments
- When the manufacturer recommends it.
- After the device have been exposed to any mechanical or electrical shocks.
- According to the requirement of the device (monthly, quarterly or yearly).
- When instruments are being tested.
- After repairs.
- After an event that could have affected the accuracy of the measurement device.
- It depends upon the task. Some measurements are critical for which instrument needs to be calibrated before and after the measurement.
Types of Calibration Procedures for Measuring Instruments
There are various calibration procedures for measuring instruments that can be used depending upon the desired result. The method also depends upon the regulatory authorities’ requirements.
ISO 17025 Accredited Calibration
It is a strict form of calibration. It requires the organisation conducting the calibration to be accredited to ISO 17025. Measurements and standards used in this calibration should be traceable and is acceptable and recognized both national and internationally. If the calibration is done under a calibration service provider, a certificate also needs to be issued which is in compliance with ISO 17025.
Calibration with Data
Calibration with data is almost similar to ISO 17025. The only difference is that it does not need to follow the ISO standard.
Standard Calibration
This is the most preferred form of calibration. It does not have criticalities and it does not require a license or certification.
Requirements for Calibration Procedures for Measuring Instruments
- Documentation of the whole calibration procedure.
- A measurement with which we want to compare our device.
- A standard device that is capable of giving precise measurements.
- If there are no standard devices to measure your device with, document a calibration basis.
- Accuracy ratio which is acceptable within the organisation.
Process for Calibration Procedures for Measuring Instruments
At first, the device is checked whether it is able to bear the calibration or not. After that calibration process starts with a comparison of the two devices. The first task is to check basic damages if the device has any. Then the environment is analyzed, in which the calibration process needs to be checked. By maintaining a pre-calibration standard, the expected result can be achieved. Choosing a standard for measurement is the next step in the process. By using the desired calibration method, the frequency of the device is checked. In this, the range of environment is measured in which the device could be used.
While the device is being calibrated it’s every step is documented. This documentation is necessary for future reference. This document consists of all the steps which are needed to be followed to reach a successful calibration.
It is more likely that an organisation hires the services a calibration technician within the entire process. A technician documents the entire process of a successful calibration. Process of calibration may sound expensive and difficult but it is not like that as it saves you from various discrepancies which may harm your long-term goals and end up being much more costly.