Why Is Frequent Calibration Important In Industrial Systems?

Industrial & Manufacturing Blog

Efficiency in industrial production is often measured in terms of seconds. Systems are precisely time to produce a quality product in as little time as possible, and instrument calibration is essential to this process. The frequency of instrument calibration is often the key to a more profitable operation:

The Challenges of Calibration

In a global survey conducted in 2009, process manufacturing companies said that their biggest challenge was the amount of calibration equipment they had to carry. This was especially problematic in the oil and gas industries, where the instruments requiring calibration are often spread out across a large area. Some companies said that they were not calibrating fieldbus instruments at all, due to a false belief that digital devices are always accurate.

What This Means in Terms of Dollars

In an economic downturn, demand for many products decreases, cutting into profits. This is the time that manufacturers need to increase efficiency by improving productivity. Staying on top of instrument calibration can make a difference big enough to pay for the labor involved in more frequent checks and updating calibration equipment to more efficient computerized models.

Manual Vs. Computerized Calibration Systems

The problem of loss from improper calibration is more pronounced in industries that use manual, paper-based calibration. Only around 23 percent of industries use specialized calibration management software for all of their systems. In the paper-based systems, documentation errors due to typos, mis-keying of data or unreadable notes were a frequent problem.

The Benefits of Frequent Instrument Calibration

Frequent calibration of instruments has several benefits that add up to increased productivity and profits.

  • Instrument stability and performance are maximized
  • Quality remains consistently high
  • Standards are more easily maintained
  • Power usage is better controlled
  • Safety issues are minimized

How Often to Calibrate

How often instruments are calibrated depends on a number of factors, such as manufacturer recommendations, or how the instrument is being used. Quality standards may also determine calibration frequency needs. History trend analysis is the most effective way to determine your calibration frequency needs.

Software-based history trend analysis is the most efficient method to obtain this information.

Frequent instrument calibration can increase productivity, reduce energy costs, help maintain quality and increase the safety of your operations. All this adds up to increased profits for your business. The first step is to ensure you have the most efficient calibration system and equipment by having a qualified calibration expert assess your needs and recommend solutions.

The cost of more efficient calibration is offset by the increase in production and profits for your company. To learn more, contact a company like Miller Calibration with any questions you have.

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