5 Factors To Consider When Selecting A Calibration Company

5 Factors To Consider When Selecting A Calibration Company

by gcc-admin-alpha

Weighing and measuring equipment is used in industries ranging from pharmaceutical manufacturing to military contracts to ensure compliance, precision, and safety. Unfortunately, due to normal wear and tear, every measuring instrument loses its effectiveness over time. Calibrating your measuring equipment has various advantages, including increased instrument life, more precise results, simpler certification, and lower expenses.

When it comes to calibrating your equipment, you need a calibration laboratory you can rely on for efficiency and peace of mind. Here are some things to think about when selecting calibration services for your equipment.

Accreditation

One of the characteristics to look for in a calibration lab is if it is third-party accredited. It is critical to work with a calibration service provider who has been accredited by third-party standardization bodies. This is because certification verifies the accuracy of a lab’s calibrations. When you work with an approved calibration laboratory, you can be confident that they satisfy quality assurance standards.

Look for a calibration service provider who has been accredited by numerous standardizing agencies. Some of the most valuable calibration lab accreditations are:

  • ISO/IEC 17025:2005
    This certification is provided by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and specifies the competence, consistency, and impartiality of a laboratory. ISO/IEC 17025 certification is commonly seen as a fundamental indicator of a laboratory’s competency. The standard is divided into five sections: general, management system, structure, resources, and process.

    This standard is critical for any calibration laboratory to meet since it improves a lab’s industry reputation and promotes efficiency, performance, and compliance.

  • ISO 9001
    ISO 9001 is another important standard. Although ISO 9001 is not as specifically aimed at calibration laboratories as ISO/IEC 17025, it is an essential part of implementing a quality management system (QMS). A quality management system (QMS) is a set of practices meant to help a company improve continuously.

    ISO 9001 certification may help any company that wants to provide high-quality products. The standard requires companies to document their operations in order to generate a QMS handbook. The accreditation procedure also includes regular audits by a certifying agency.

Capabilities

Precision calibration is critical for assessing the accuracy and effectiveness of your equipment. With so many sectors relying on metrology equipment, calibration laboratories must have the skills and capabilities to operate with a wide range of equipment. Calibration of a thermometer, for example, differs from calibration of a sensor.

A reputable calibration service provider can fulfill all of your calibration requirements, including:

  • Calibration of Pressure and Vacuum
    Pressure gages are widely used in food and beverage processing plants, labs, oil refineries, and other scientific settings. Pressure and vacuum calibration employ computerized pressure modules to determine if pressure gages produce reliable data, assisting organizations in meeting customer expectations and adhering to industry standards.
  • Mass and torque calibration
    Torque devices are used during production when the automotive and machine manufacturing sectors need to measure torque. Manufacturers can guarantee their devices transmit the proper tension to the fastener by performing frequent torque and mass calibration.
  • Calibration of Electronics
    Electrical characteristics such as current, voltage, resistance, time, and frequency must be measured in a variety of businesses. Electrical calibration is performed in calibration labs using calibration equipment that has been certified against standards from independent regulatory authorities.
  • Surface Plate Calibration and Resurfacing
    For accurate measurements, surface plates must fulfill flatness standards. These plates may have peaks or depressions from wear, indicating that they should be resurfaced on a regular basis. Surface Plate Calibration and Refinishing are critical for ensuring that goods satisfy industry requirements.

Accuracy

You want your company’s measurement equipment to be as precise as possible. Accurate calibration equipment can provide more precise findings, boosting the usefulness of your equipment.

A reliable calibration facility will either send a qualified technician to your location or calibrate your equipment in a laboratory. During the calibration procedure, the technician will compare your instrument’s measurements to a standard to check if they match.

If your equipment produces a reading that differs from the norm and falls outside of the standard accuracy ratio, the technician will discover the problem. They will then tweak your instrument till the reading is accurate.

Service To Customers

One of the finest traits of a calibration lab is a commitment to client service. Calibration must be done on a regular basis, perhaps as frequently as every few months, depending on how frequently the device is used. Developing a professional partnership with a full-service calibration service provider guarantees that the calibration process runs smoothly and that your equipment satisfies expert requirements.

Here are some of the customer service advantages to look for in a calibration lab:

  • Knowledgeable technicians: When acquiring on-site calibration services, you want professionals that understand the processes required to calibrate your unique equipment. Look for a trustworthy calibration business that has properly trained specialists that can do on-site calibration.
  • Fast turnaround: When you need equipment calibration services but want to avoid costly downtime, look for a calibration company with fast turnaround times. You should be able to ask a calibration laboratory about how long it takes them to service equipment. Few manufacturers can afford to be without an essential piece of equipment for months as they wait for calibration. Look for a calibration laboratory that can complete the calibration in a few days.
  • Multiple ways to calibrate: Many calibration labs will perform field calibration, where they send a technician to your company’s location to perform the calibration on-site. While this method saves time on shipping, calibration may not work if temperature and humidity interfere with sensitive devices. Look for a calibration service provider that offers multiple calibration methods, including on-site and laboratory calibration. If the lab provides regional pickup and delivery, that’s another bonus.

Experience

When it comes to measuring precision, you need experienced calibration services to assure the functioning of your equipment. Consider hiring a calibrating business with years of expertise. Working with an expert calibration service provider has the following advantages:

  • Precision calibration services on a full-service basis.
  • Professional, experienced specialists that can solve equipment difficulties.
  • Services for equipment repair.

Let Gulf Coast Manage Your Calibration Schedule.

Are you looking for calibration services, or is your equipment producing out-of-the-ordinary results? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Gulf Coast Calibration has over 40 years of expertise and has developed to become one of the Gulf Coast region finest weighing equipment and calibration firms. Our calibration services, which encompass equipment in a variety of sectors, are provided through our in-house laboratory or on-site at our clients’ facilities.

Call us to discuss your calibration, test or repair needs at:
713.944.3139.

Request for Calibration Quote
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Difference Between Dial Calipers and Digital Calipers

Difference Between Dial Calipers and Digital Calipers

by gcc-admin-alpha

Calipers are precision measuring tools that are used in many industries such as manufacturing, engineering, and metalworking. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the dial caliper and digital caliper are two of the most common. In this blog post, we’ll go over the key distinctions between the two and when to use each.

Dial Caliper:

A dial caliper, also known as a Vernier caliper, is an old-fashioned measuring tool that has been around for a long time. It is made up of a scale with a pointer that moves along the scale as the jaws open and close. The scale is usually marked in 0.001 inch or 0.02 mm increments, allowing for precise measurements.

The dial caliper has the advantage of being easy to read and not requiring any batteries or electronics. It’s also tough and can withstand extreme temperatures. It may, however, be more difficult to read for those with visual impairments, and it may not provide measurements with the same precision as a digital caliper.

Digital Caliper:

In contrast, a digital caliper is a more modern measuring tool that uses electronics to provide highly accurate measurements. It has a digital readout that displays the measurement in inches or millimeters, with some models also displaying fractions. Digital calipers’ jaws are typically made of stainless steel and can measure internal, external, depth, and step dimensions.

A digital caliper’s benefits include its ease of use, accuracy, and ability to display measurements in a variety of units. It’s also great for people who need to take measurements quickly or have trouble reading the scale of a dial caliper. It does, however, require batteries, and the electronic components may not be as long-lasting as the mechanical components of a dial caliper.

Here are some additional differences between dial calipers and digital calipers:

  • Price: In general, dial calipers are less expensive than digital calipers. If you’re on a tight budget or only need a caliper occasionally, a dial caliper may be a better option.
  • Resolution: Digital calipers usually have a higher resolution than dial calipers. Some digital calipers, for example, can measure to within 0.0005 inches or 0.01 mm, whereas dial calipers may only measure to within 0.001 inches or 0.02 mm.
  • Ease of use: In general, digital calipers are easier to use than dial calipers, especially for beginners. Without having to count the marks on the scale, the digital readout makes it simple to read the measurement. Some people, however, may prefer the tactile feedback of a dial caliper.
  • Battery life: Digital calipers are powered by batteries, which can be inconvenient if the battery dies in the middle of a job. Many digital calipers, on the other hand, have a long battery life and some even have an auto-off feature to conserve battery power.
  • Range: Digital calipers typically have a greater measurement range than dial calipers. Some digital calipers, for example, can measure up to 12 inches or 300 mm, whereas dial calipers may only measure up to 6 inches or 150 mm.
  • Accuracy: Digital calipers are generally more accurate than dial calipers, especially when measuring with high precision. This is due to the greater accuracy with which digital calipers can display measurements, as well as the elimination of human error that can occur when reading the markings on a dial caliper.
  • Speed: Because digital calipers provide an instant digital readout, they are faster to use than dial calipers. This makes them ideal for tasks requiring a large number of measurements to be taken quickly, such as in a manufacturing environment.
  • Durability: Because dial calipers have fewer moving parts and do not rely on electronic components, they are generally more durable than digital calipers. However, this can vary depending on the caliper’s quality.
  • Maintenance: Because digital calipers contain electronic components that must be protected from moisture and dust, they require more maintenance than dial calipers. This can include routine cleaning, battery changes, and calibration on occasion.
  • Environment: Because dial calipers do not have electronic components that can be damaged by dust or moisture, they are better suited for use in dirty or dusty environments such as a machine shop. Digital calipers are better suited for use in clean environments where accuracy and speed are more important than durability, such as a laboratory or inspection room.
  • Display: Dial calipers have an analog display that shows the measurement in the form of a pointer and a scale, whereas digital calipers have a digital display that shows the measurement in numbers. For some people, especially those who are used to working with digital displays, this can make digital calipers easier to read.
  • Zero reset: Most digital calipers have a zero reset button that allows you to reset the measurement to zero without physically moving the caliper’s jaws. This is a useful feature if you need to take multiple measurements and want to start each one from the beginning.
  • Data output: Some digital calipers include a data output feature that allows you to connect the caliper to a computer or other device and record measurements.
  • Brand & Quality: Both dial and digital calipers are available in a variety of brands and quality levels. Higher-quality calipers are generally more accurate and durable, but also more expensive. It is critical to select a caliper that is appropriate for your needs and budget, as well as a reputable brand with a proven track record.
  • Units of measurement: Digital calipers have the ability to switch between different measurement units, such as inches, millimeters, and fractions. In contrast, dial calipers are typically calibrated in only one unit of measurement and cannot be easily switched.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both dial and digital calipers have advantages and disadvantages. Dial calipers are more traditional and less expensive, but they can be more difficult to read and have a lower resolution. Digital calipers are more user-friendly and have a higher resolution, but they require batteries and may be more expensive. Finally, the decision between the two boils down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the job.

Call us to discuss your calibration, test or repair needs at:
713.944.3139.

Request for Calibration Quote
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Dimensional Tools and Thier Common Defects

Dimensional Tools and Thier Common Defects

by gcc-admin-alpha

Dimensional tools are critical tools for ensuring precise measurements in manufacturing and engineering processes. These tools are used to measure dimensions such as length, width, and thickness to ensure that products and components meet specific specifications. Dimensional tools, like any other tool, can have flaws that cause inaccurate measurements or cause the tool to malfunction.

This blog post will go over the most common defects that can occur in dimensional tools and how to avoid them.

Wear and Tear

Wear and tear is one of the most common defects on dimensional tools. Regular use or exposure to harsh conditions can cause tools to wear out over time. This can result in inaccurate measurements and even irreparable damage to the tool.

How to Prevent:

To avoid wear and tear, use the proper tool for the job and handle it with care. Regular maintenance and cleaning can also help your tools last longer.

Damage

Another common defect on dimensional tools is physical damage. Accidental drops, mishandling, and other types of trauma can cause misalignment or other types of defects that affect the tool’s accuracy.

How to Prevent:

To prevent damage, it’s crucial to handle tools with care and store them properly when not in use. Protective cases or covers can also help prevent damage during transport or storage.

Calibration Issues

Dimensional tools must be calibrated on a regular basis to ensure accurate measurements. Calibration issues are a common flaw that, if not addressed, can cause serious problems.

Calibration problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including wear and tear, damage, or temperature or humidity changes.

How to Prevent:

Calibration issues can be avoided by following the manufacturer’s calibration guidelines and ensuring that tools are calibrated on a regular basis.

Digital Display Issues

Digital dimensional tools, such as calipers or micrometers, may exhibit display issues. This can include a dim or flickering display, inaccurate readings, or other issues.

Battery issues, display damage, or other technical issues can all cause display issues.

How to Prevent:

To avoid display problems, keep tools clean and dry, and replace batteries on a regular basis.

Rust and Corrosion

Rust and corrosion are another common problem with dimensional tools. Metal tools are prone to rust and corrosion, especially if they are exposed to moisture or other corrosive substances.

How to Prevent:

To avoid rust and corrosion, keep tools in a dry, clean, and well-ventilated place. Cleaning and oiling on a regular basis can also help to prevent rust and corrosion.

Improper Handling and Use

Improper handling and application of dimensional tools can also result in flaws. This can include using the incorrect tool for the job, using too much force, or using the tool incorrectly.

How to Prevent:

It’s critical to use the right tool for the job and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use to avoid defects caused by improper handling and use. Proper training and education can also aid in the prevention of defects caused by human error.

Loose Fittings and Parts

Finally, loose fittings and parts can cause dimensional tool defects. This can include loose screws, bolts, or other fasteners that impair the accuracy and stability of the tool.

It is critical to inspect tools on a regular basis and tighten any loose fittings or parts to avoid loose fittings and parts.

How to Prevent:

Regular maintenance and cleaning can also aid in the prevention of loose fittings and parts.

Conclusion

Finally, precision engineering and manufacturing require dimensional tools. They are, however, susceptible to a variety of flaws that can impair their accuracy and reliability. Understanding these common flaws and taking preventative measures will ensure that your tools remain accurate and reliable for years to come. Regular maintenance, cleaning, and calibration are required to keep your dimensional tools in excellent working order.

Call us to discuss your calibration, test or repair needs at:
713.944.3139.

Request for Calibration Quote

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