Calibration is a mandatory process to which measuring instruments are subjected. In simple terms, the definition of calibration states that it is the process of comparing the value of an instrument to a reference value.
This process is essential in research laboratories and other facilities that use measuring and testing instruments. Understanding its importance will make your laboratory more accurate and efficient.
Le recours à la métrologie n’est pas une option, mais plutôt une obligation, et il est également nécessaire de la mettre en œuvre dans le cadre d’une révision périodique au sein de votre installation. Pour vous permettre d’en savoir plus, cet article traite de l’importance d’un bon étalonnage.
Why calibrate?
Its purpose is to ensure that the measurements produced by the instruments are accurate, and to compare the results of different measurement methods to ensure consistency.
Un dispositif d’étalonnage possède une valeur connue ou de référence, qui est comparée aux valeurs de l’instrument à étalonner. Sur la base des résultats, l’utilisateur final applique des valeurs de correction à l’instrument pour améliorer la précision et l’exactitude de l’équipement étalonné.
These values generally do not deviate and remain within the uncertainty that was provided during calibration, making them a crucial part of the measurement. If you are using a calibrated instrument, it is essential that you choose the right calibration device for the job.
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How is this done?
Ideally, the measurement should be performed twice: once before calibration and once after, in order to determine an appropriate reliable standard. In order to have greater guarantee in the process, it must be carried out periodically, in order to establish a standardized interval.
In addition, it must be carried out in an environment similar to that in which the instrument will be used.
What about failures and mistakes?
Calibration is a process that requires more than purely mechanical work. While it is true that the proper execution of the measurement requires a measuring instrument and an established reference framework, we must not forget that certain phenomena can alter the quality of the results.
Calibration errors are always possible. No matter how accurate the science becomes, we must always consider these drawbacks.
Errors that can arise from this process are: random errors, systematic errors, and a third category called negligent errors. The latter involves not only the instrument or equipment, but also errors which may depend strictly on human or environmental issues.
In general, the values obtained do not deviate and remain within the uncertainty that was provided during the measurement. Therefore, the calibration process is a crucial part of the measurement. If you are using a calibrated instrument, it is essential that you choose the right calibration device for the job.
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Difference between calibration and adjustment
Calibration or adjustment? These two terms can be confusing, but they are not synonymous. We have already talked about the first process.
Adjustment, on the other hand, is the adjustment that is made according to the instruments, in order to minimize errors in this part of the process. The calibrator thus guarantees that the measurement values remain within the accepted margins, that their deviation is reduced to a minimum, depending on the reference values and that they comply with the regulations.
Calibration laboratory in Quebec
The purpose of calibration is to ensure that a measurement is accurate and repeatable. The measurement is carried out by a qualified professional, requires a high degree of expertise and a reliable calibration laboratory.
Chez SEP Métrologie, nous disposons de professionnels hautement qualifiés pour réaliser tous les processus d’étalonnage dont vous avez besoin. Nous disposons de toutes les certifications correspondantes.
Contact us at 450 776-328 or 450 776-2194 or info@sepmetrologie.com. We are SEP Métrologie, experts in measurement and metrology.
