Calibration weights or test weights are solid metal blocks used to assess the precision of scales and balances. They are meticulously designed to indicate a specific weight ranging from one milligram for the most sensitive analytical and microbalances to fifty kilogrammes for less sensitive platform scales. This post will go through the top 5 best practises for attaining accurate calibration with calibration weights.
Top 5 Practices for Correct Calibration Using Calibration Weights
Calibration weights are critical instruments for ensuring precise measurements in a variety of industries, including laboratories, manufacturing, and quality control. To produce dependable and exact results, weight calibration must conform to particular best practises.
Buying the Right Calibration Weights
There are several different kinds of calibration weights, and you can't just pick one at random. Calibration weights are classified. HiWeigh provides E1, E2, F1, and M1 Class test weights made of aluminium, stainless steel, brass, and cast iron, among other materials.
When you are calibrating a scale that offers very accurate measurements, like an analytical or microbalance, you will need E1 or E2 class weights. These weights are made of stainless steel or aluminium with the highest precision, making them an ideal choice for calibrating scales of the highest precision.
On the other hand, weighing scales that require standard precision can choose Class F1 test weights for calibration needs. Furthermore, these stainless steel weights are more affordable compared to E1 and E2 class test weights. In the case of industrial scales like floor scales or platform scales, M1-class weights are best. The M1 Weights can reach more than 50 kilograms in weight, plus they are constructed in cast iron, brass, and steel.
Ensure to do extensive research before taking a decision.
Find a Stable, Level Surface When Calibrating
When you are getting ready to calibrate your scale, make sure to find a stable and level surface that is far from vibrations caused by external objects. Make sure that you’re not putting your 3-foot weighing scale on a wobbly table because it won’t lead to a successful calibration. Instead of worrying about the amount of outside interference, try calibrating your weighing scale on an anti-vibration table or a firm table top. All four feet should be present, and the bubble in the levelling tool should be in the centre. That's why, floor will be the best place to calibrate a large industrial scale.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
While the calibration method for most scales or balances is typically the same, you should never assume you know what you're doing, especially if you've never calibrated a scale before. Manuals are written for a purpose; they are intended to be read! If you follow the instructions, you have a far better chance of effectively calibrating your scale or balance. If you've misplaced your instructions, many websites, like Inscale, have links to manuals on the product page.
Check Calibration Regularly
Unfortunately, calibration does not stay the same indefinitely. Your scales and balances may start to move or offer two different weight readings for the same item over time. These are indicators that another calibration is required. If you find the manufacturer's advice for how often to calibrate in the handbook, mark your calendar appropriately.
If the handbook does not include a recommendation, we recommend calibrating at least once a year. If your scale or balance is used infrequently, for extremely tough, severe chores, or transferred to different places, we recommend calibrating it more frequently, such as once a month.
Always Keep Calibration Weights Clean
The E1, E2, and F1 are made with incredible precision. Lack of care can lead to its deterioration and the inaccurate calibration of your weighing scale. For instance, calibration weights shouldn’t be handled with gloves and tweezers. Your bare fingerprints create lubricants that add a tiny amount of weight and may even corrode the test weight over time. Dirt, dust, and lint are further hazards that should be avoided at all costs.
If fingerprints, dust, or dirt fall on the test weights, it can mar their precision to a great degree. In such scenarios, make sure to remove it with a soft brush, cleaner, or soap before using it again.
Final Thoughts
In short, these are the best practises to ensure that your calibration weights are able to offer accurate calibration for several years. However, you need to make sure that you are buying the right test weights to calibrate your weighing scale. At the same time, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use it with precision and calibrate your weighing scale seamlessly.
コメント