What is temperature calibration?

Temperature calibration is the critical process of verifying the accuracy of a temperature measuring instrument by comparing its readings to a known and trusted standard. This ensures that the measurements provided by the device are reliable and consistent, a cornerstone for safety, quality, and efficiency across a multitude of industries.

The fundamental principle of temperature calibration involves placing the instrument under test alongside a reference device of higher accuracy in a stable temperature environment. Any discrepancies between the two readings are recorded, and adjustments can be made to the instrument being tested to bring its readings in line with the standard. This process helps to counteract the natural drift and wear that can cause instruments to lose their accuracy over time.

Why is Temperature Calibration So Important?

The significance of regular temperature calibration cannot be overstated. Inaccurate temperature readings can have far-reaching and detrimental consequences, including:

Compromised Safety: In many industrial processes, precise temperature control is vital for preventing accidents. For example, in the chemical industry, incorrect temperature readings could lead to dangerous reactions. In food processing, it ensures that products are cooked to safe temperatures, eliminating harmful bacteria.

Reduced Product Quality: Many products are sensitive to temperature variations during manufacturing and storage. In the pharmaceutical industry, the efficacy of drugs can be compromised by improper temperatures. Similarly, the taste and texture of food products can be negatively affected.

Regulatory Non-Compliance: Many industries are subject to strict regulations regarding temperature monitoring. Failure to provide evidence of regular and accurate calibration can result in significant fines and legal issues. Standards such as ISO 17025 are internationally recognized benchmarks for calibration laboratories.

Process Inefficiency and Financial Loss: Inaccurate temperature control can lead to increased energy consumption, wasted materials, and production delays, all of which impact a company’s bottom line.

Instruments That Require Temperature Calibration

A wide array of instruments rely on accurate temperature readings and therefore require regular calibration. These include:

Thermometers: Digital, liquid-in-glass, and bimetallic thermometers.

Thermocouples: Versatile sensors used in a broad range of industrial applications.

Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTDs) and Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs): Known for their high accuracy and stability.

Thermistors: Highly sensitive temperature sensors.

Infrared (IR) Thermometers and Thermal Imagers: Used for non-contact temperature measurements.

Data Loggers and Chart Recorders: Devices that record temperature data over time.

Ovens, Furnaces, and Freezers: To ensure they maintain the correct temperatures for their intended purpose.

In conclusion, temperature calibration is an essential practice for any application where temperature is a critical parameter. By ensuring the accuracy of temperature measuring instruments, organizations can safeguard their processes, products, and personnel, while also adhering to regulatory standards and optimizing operational efficiency.

Why temperature calibration at Minerva Calibrations?

We arrange the temperature measuring instrument calibration in our partner’s laboratories accredited according to ISO/IEC 17025 by their national accreditation body. This way, we can guarantee that your temperature calibration is traceable to SI. 

We firmly believe that calibration service is and will always be a human endeavour. That’s why we ensure you always have a dedicated contact person and personalized service. This is especially helpful if your instrument needs urgent maintenance.

We’re amazed ourselves: our team now works for over 1,000 clients in 69 countries. Most have built long-term partnerships with us. Why? We believe in technology, innovation, and communication.

Sending your instrument for repair or calibration is never a convenient time. We understand that perfectly. Don’t worry. In the Minerva online portal, you can track the service progress, from day one through delivery.

Advantages of temperature calibration

• Accurate and reliable temperature measurement
• Optimal performance of your instrument or machine
• Prevents waste
• Process improvement and profit optimalisation
• Detection of obsolete equipment

Temperature calibration cost

Every request is unique. That’s why we determine the cost based on the type of measuring instrument, the maximum accuracy of the instrument, and the measuring procedure. This way, you never pay too much. Calibrating a thermometer naturally has a different cost than maintaining a large device.

For a quote with an exact price, please send an email to sales@minerva-calibration.com. Briefly describe your situation and needs. Or click the quote request button below.