Calibrating your equipment annually or every 5 years? Regulation or recommendation?

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Accurate measurements are at the core of various industries, from ensuring product quality and safety to conducting scientific research and monitoring critical infrastructure. Test and measurement equipment requires regular calibration to maintain data integrity and guarantee reliable performance.

But how often should this calibration be carried out? While the simple answer might appear to be “frequently,” the reality is more nuanced and depends on multiple factors.
International standards like ISO 17025 do not prescribe a universal calibration frequency for all equipment. Instead, they promote a risk-based approach, acknowledging that the optimal interval depends on the specific context in which the equipment is used.

This article delves into the intricacies of determining the appropriate calibration frequency for your test and measurement equipment.

Calibration Frequency As Per ISO 17025

According to ISO 17025, the frequency at which equipment should be calibrated is not explicitly stated as a one-size-fits-all guideline. Instead, the standard emphasises the need for calibration intervals based on the risk of inaccurate measurements.

The frequency should consider several factors, such as the equipment’s usage, the environment in which it operates, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, compliance testing as per ISO 17025 suggests an annual calibration for most equipment to ensure it performs within its specified accuracy.

For highly sensitive or high-risk environments, such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or aerospace, more frequent calibrations may be necessary. Some instruments require checks as often as every three months.

Longer intervals may be acceptable in less critical applications. The overarching principle of ISO 17025 is that the calibration frequency should align with the importance of the measurements being made, the impact of potential inaccuracies, and the equipment’s operational environment.

The Fallacy Of A Universal Calibration Recommendation

For instance, Rolls Royce calibrates the test cells used for its Trent XWB engines every three months. In contrast, customers in the gas industry are advised to calibrate their gas detectors every six months, mainly when used in confined spaces.

The aim is to ensure that the equipment meets technical specifications for safety and accuracy. In these cases, neglecting calibration could lead to significant risks, including compromised safety and product failure.

Consider two contrasting examples: a high-precision thermometer used in pharmaceutical research versus a basic voltmeter in a hobbyist’s workshop. Their requirements for accuracy and calibration differ significantly.

Applying a blanket rule, such as annual calibration for both, doesn’t make sense. The research thermometer demands frequent calibration due to its high accuracy requirements and the impact of inaccurate measurements on the research. At the same time, the hobbyist’s voltmeter could operate reliably with much less frequent calibration.

This is why standards like ISO 17025 encourage a risk-based approach rather than a universal rule. The onus falls on the equipment user to determine the appropriate calibration frequency based on how critical the measurements are and the specific operational context of the equipment.

Factors That Influence Calibration Frequency

Several factors influence how often calibration should be performed on equipment. Equipment specifications constitute a significant factor. Each instrument has inherent accuracy limitations and environmental tolerances that must be considered. Referring to the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential for understanding the equipment’s baseline calibration needs.

The next factor is measurement uncertainty. How critical is high accuracy in your measurements? The precision required for your application will dictate how often the equipment should be checked. More frequent calibration may be necessary if you consistently require highly accurate results.

Equipment usage also plays a significant role. Instruments used frequently or under demanding conditions may experience wear and tear, leading to faster accuracy drift. As a result, they will need to be recalibrated more often than equipment used occasionally.

However, equipment not used for long may benefit from recalibration before use.

Environmental factors like extreme temperatures, vibrations, dust, and moisture exposure can also accelerate instrument drift. In these cases, shorter calibration intervals may be required to maintain equipment accuracy.

Finally, the impact of inaccuracy must be considered. More frequent calibration is justified if inaccurate measurements could lead to safety risks, significant financial losses, or reputational damage. In such cases, ensuring measurement precision is paramount, and the benefits of maintaining accuracy outweigh the costs associated with calibration.

What About 5-Year Calibration Certificates?

Some manufacturers offer 5-year calibration certificates, which may seem appealing in terms of reducing costs and maintenance efforts. However, at Coltraco Ultrasonics, we adhere to the highest safety and accuracy standards. While we respect that each customer has discretion regarding calibration intervals, we recommend an annual calibration as best practice.

This approach aligns with the guidelines of significant approval bodies such as UKAS, NIST, and UL, which generally recommend annual calibration for specialised test equipment. By adhering to these standards, Coltraco Ultrasonics ensures that its customers’ equipment performs reliably over the long term.

Offering extended calibration intervals, such as 5 years, could compromise safety and performance, particularly for critical equipment.

Choosing The Right Calibration Schedule For Your Equipment

Ultimately, selecting the proper calibration schedule for your equipment does not follow a rigid timeline; it considers several factors unique to your application.

For industries with stringent regulatory requirements, such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or aerospace, more frequent calibration, sometimes as often as every three months, may be necessary to maintain precision and compliance with safety standards.

A longer interval may be acceptable in less demanding environments, provided the equipment is not exposed to harsh conditions.

To make informed decisions about calibration frequency, it’s essential to consider the manufacturer’s guidelines, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements like those set forth by ISO 17025.

Trust Coltraco For Your Calibration Needs
When you invest in equipment from Coltraco Ultrasonics, you are not just purchasing reliable instruments; you are gaining the support of a company committed to ensuring the longevity and accuracy of your tools.

Our Coltraco Customer Care Commitment includes lifetime support, and we have established ODA Service Centres worldwide so that you can send your equipment for calibration at a convenient location.

We go above and beyond for our customers, enhancing their equipment during calibration and building a reputation for exceptional service. For more information on how we can assist with your calibration needs or to inquire about ISO 17025 compliance, contact us at [email protected].

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