Temperature is the most commonly measured parameter, no matter the industry.  To maintain accuracy, temperature calibrator equipment is necessary. Measuring temperatures involve a wide range of specialty sensors such as thermistors, thermocouples, infrared sensors (IR), bimetal thermometers, resistive temperature detectors (RTSs).

What is a Temperature Calibrator?

Temperature calibrators come in a variety of styles in addition to some referring to a calibrator but can also be called a temperature indicator, or temperature simulator.

A calibrator must be able to verify that a temperature sensor is reading the actual temperature, within some tolerance in the environment in which they apply it.

For this reason, it must consist of a stable temperature source capable of reaching the desired range of temperatures.

Questions to Ask When Choosing an ISO 17025 Temperature Calibrator

• Do I need to calibrate sensors or temperature displays?
• What are the size and shapes of the sensors?
• Do you need speed to change temperatures?
• How deep does the liquid bath or dry block need to be?
• We use what temperature range?
• Multiple probes at a time?
• Can it be used in the field or is it strictly laboratory?

The Three Specifications of a Temperature Calibrator

There are three specifications that are of vital importance when selecting a temperature calibrator.  Understanding these three will significantly allow you to select the best calibrator for your needs.

1. Accuracy: The accuracy between the instrument’s display temperature and the actual temperature of calibration well. How closely the measured value is to the true value.
2. Stability: When a calibrator reaches its set point, there is some fluctuation in temperature as the unit tries to maintain that temperature.  The fluctuation can impact the calibrations.  Stability adds to the accuracy in determining overall system uncertainty.
3. Uniformity: Temperature consistency of the heat source throughout the test zone. All calibrators have differences from the top, middle, and bottom.  In order to gain uniformity, the user must place the probes in a way to minimize uniformity errors.

Dry Blocks

Dry blocks are versatile temperature calibrators that work by heating and cooling a metal block to a specific temperature and maintaining that temperature.  It provides a stable temperature source and can be adjusted to test different points.  They are especially lightweight and can easily be transported to the field.

Temperature Baths

A temperature calibration bath is a uniform enclosure with a stirred fluid that can be adjusted to numerous temperature test points.  They in fact provide excellent thermal contact, uniformity, and stability for temperature sensor calibration.  Because they don’t rely on drilled inserts, they are able to calibrate many inserts at a time.

Thermocouple / RTD Calibrators

Thermocouple / RTD Calibrators test the accuracy of temperature sensors through electronic circuitry.  They are able to provide technicians a simple, cost-effective way to test in the field.

Find the Solution for Your Needs

To maintain accuracy, calibrating temperature monitoring equipment is necessary.  It is vital to not only go with quality manufactured products but to work with a company that provides the best products but can repair and is an ISO 17025 accredited lab that can calibrate your equipment when needed.  Do your due diligence and find a company that can help you find the right solution for your Industry’s needs.