Introduction
All equipment engaged in manufacture or production activities need to undergo regular recalibration for yielding quality output. Calibration has a direct impact on manufacturing processes which in turn eventually affect a company’s bottom line. Hence, as an equipment owner, you can only ill-afford to neglect calibration needs. Calibration has a direct impact on manufacturing processes which in turn eventually affect a company’s bottom line. Hence, as an equipment owner, you can only ill-afford to neglect calibration needs.
Guidelines on recalibration frequency
Like with the differences in their sizes and functions, equipment bear varying frequency requirement. Therefore, there is one catch-all answer to how often you should re-calibrate your machines. However, you could gain some useful insights from our set of guidelines that commonly apply to determine frequency calibration of all equipment.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Equipment comes with a manual of detailed instructions on their operations as well as recommendations on calibrations frequency.
But, remember, these are only recommendations. When you start operating your equipment, you might see a difference in actual calibration needs varying from those recommended. Therefore, while following instructions, you should rely on self-assessments as well.
At fixed periods – monthly, quarterly, or semiannually
Most equipment users believe in getting their equipment checked on a fixed and regular basis. Depending on the nature of your equipment and its usage, you could design their recalibration routine – monthly, quarterly, or semiannually. If your equipment tasks include a mixture of critical and non-critical measurements, go for annual recalibration.
In accordance with project requirements
Some projects work on high-quality standards, entailing stringent checks on equipment. For such projects, it is mandatory for you to recalibrate your equipment before their use.
Prior to a major critical measuring project
Before initiating a critical project or process which involves measurement, have your equipment recalibration. The use of finely calibrated equipment would ensure refined results and higher quality products. Make sure that you oversee the recalibrations so to prevent any negligence. Once, done, keep the equipment aside until its eventual use.
At the end of a critical measuring project
The operations of measuring equipment may alter its calibrations, not significantly, but, perhaps in a minor way. But a little difference in readings could adversely impact the critical processes for which it is being employed. Hence, finishing your project get the concerned equipment recalibrated. This task would help you in testing your results.
Post accident
Accidents cause harm to equipment, altering amongst other things, its calibrations. Hence, if your equipment happens to meet an accident, promptly ask an experienced technician to recalibrate it. It is also necessary for you to get its associated internal safety checked.
Conclusion
Calibration plays an important role in manufacturing processes, and significantly affects product quality. It also serves safety needs and ensures reliability. Therefore, it is imperative that firms and factory owners treat calibrations and recalibrations with seriousness.
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