Calibrate and save money

Calibrating a measuring device shows how much its results deviate from the defined standard. The important thing is not whether the measuring device shows the correct result, but knowing how large the deviation is. Sometimes it is appropriate to adjust the measuring instrument to show the correct result; at other times, it is better to leave it alone and take the deviation into account in production.

"By calibrating your measuring instruments regularly, you can gain an understanding of how objects behave over time and identify any significant drift. In industry, frequent calibration is important so that costly complaints can be avoided. Many people understand the importance of calibration, but they may not realise how much it can ultimately cost or the risk it can pose to consumers if it is not carried out", says Petra Lantz, head of the Control and Calibration department at RISE.

Wide range of services

As the national metrology institute, RISE hosts most of Sweden's national measurement laboratories and offers a wide range of calibration services, both accredited and advanced. We also collaborate closely with other international institutes that share our mission.

"Our facility has a team of highly skilled engineers and researchers working on calibration. This expertise sets us apart from other calibration providers in Sweden, many of whom state their traceability via us," says Mats Olsson, Research and Business Development Manager for the Control and Calibration Department at RISE.

At home or in the field.

Calibration can be performed either at RISE or on site at the company as a field calibration.

Petra Lantz says, "Field calibration is ideal if you have sensitive or heavy equipment that is difficult to move, or a large number of smaller measuring instruments that need to be calibrated at the same time."

In addition to calibration, RISE offers services relating to the adjustment and inspection of measuring instruments. While closely linked to calibration, inspection involves ensuring that the measured values remain within the specified requirements. For instance, a shop's scales must not show a weight that is several grams too high.

Conversely, Mats Olsson says that a scale that shows too little can result in significant accumulated costs for the company.

One example is petrol stations, where larger facilities can have a weekly fuel turnover of 100 cubic metres. Even if the fuel dispensers remain within the permitted deviation of plus or minus 0.5 per cent, this can result in significant accumulated discrepancies. For example, if the meters show 0.5 per cent too little and the turnover is 100 cubic metres, this could result in lost revenue of around 750,000 Swedish kronor per year.

"We are often hired to perform checks much more frequently than required by law to avoid this type of large accumulated error,' says Mats Olsson.

Training for those responsible for measuring equipment.

RISE also provides training services in this area. For example, we offer training for measurement equipment managers and production personnel who need to know how to handle measurement results after calibration.

"If the measuring device shows an error, this must be taken into account. In addition, a certain degree of measurement uncertainty must be considered. Therefore, it is important to be aware of and consider both of these factors when looking at any deviations," says Mats Olsson.