Understanding Calibration & Its Applications

By Carey Bourdier


Many machines and instruments require calibration, and this just means that a calibrator with a known measurement is compared to the measurements of the machine or device that needs calibration. The goal is that the known measurement and the test measurement will match. If they don't match, adjusts are made carefully until the two do match.

The process of calibrating objects is not a new task; it actually is an ancient one that became increasingly important after the early days of the Industrial Revolution. Of course, calibration devices are far more accurate today than they were a century ago or even 30 years ago. Calibration is need for just about every device or piece of machinery for most industries. The equipment that creates our food products needs calibration, as does the equipment that makes computers, trucks, cars and even children's toys.

Instruments need calibration on many occasions, not the least of which is before they are used for the first time. Most industries must have their equipment calibrated from time to time and receive calibration certification. In addition, calibration is needed if employees notice abnormalities or data inaccuracies. Calibration also is needed when any adjustments are made to the equipment. In addition, sometimes a machine might be jostled or moved and calibration will be needed to insure accuracy. Even a sudden change in weather or temperature can have an effect on certain pieces of equipment which will require calibration services.

There are many different instruments that are used to perform calibration services, and the type of instrument used depends on the type of measurements that need to be taken. In general, there are pressure calibrators, temperature probe calibrators, block calibrators, multi-function calibrators and many more. Some are handheld pieces of equipment and others are larger or need to be placed on a level surface in order to work.

While some industries have employees on hand to perform calibration tasks, often experts are called in to perform various types of calibration. These experts are highly trained and many not only take these precise measurements but also complete any necessary repairs or adjustments. Some calibration companies can even provide the proper certification that might be required.

These calibrators or experts of calibration are called calibration technicians, and they must attend technical school and then gain five years of calibration experience before they can become Certified Calibration Technicians. Often you will find that the technician has a bachelor's degree in metrology or perhaps mechanical engineering. Metrology is particularly helpful, as it is actually the science of measurement. These technicians spend many months and years understanding measurement and learning to use the variety of devices needed to perform the services. They calibrate all types of devices, including optical equipment, industrial equipment and electrical equipment.




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