Calibration
Definition : Calibration consists of comparing the output of the instrument under test
against the output of an instrument of known accuracy when the same input (the
measured quantity) is applied to both instruments.
This procedure is carried out for a range of inputs covering the whole measurement
range of the instrument.
Unless current performance of process & product are measured accurately it is
difficult to think of improvement. So Calibration is vital for any quality improvement
program.
Instrument calibration has to be repeated at prescribed intervals because the
characteristics of any instrument change over a period. Changes in instrument
characteristics are brought about by such factors as mechanical wear, and the effects
of dirt, dust, fumes, chemicals and temperature changes in the operating environment
Calibration can be called for:
with a new instrument
when a specified time period is elapsed
when a specified usage (operating hours) has elapsed
when an instrument has had a shock or vibration which
potentially may have put it out of calibration
whenever observations appear questionable
Calibration Program:
Testing and calibration procedures are documented
Tests to check calibration are performed on a scheduled basis.
Adjustment to the equipment are made based on test results
Confirmation labeling should indicate when the equipment is next due for
calibration
Measurement equipment that is deemed not to require calibration should be
identified .
Verification of accuracy and repeatability
Traceability
Calibration Records are maintained
Calibration Application:
Product Quality
Designed experiments
Environmental testing
Testing
Safety
Failure mode analysis
Traceability
This knowledge of the full chain of instruments involved in the calibration
procedure is known as traceability, and is specified as a mandatory requirement
in satisfying the BS EN ISO 9000 standard.
Calibration Certificate:
• the identification of the equipment calibrated
• the calibration results obtained
• the measurement uncertainty
• any use limitations on the equipment calibrated
• the date of calibration
• the authority under which the certificate is issued.
Calibration Report