Best Practices in Calibrating Weighing Scales

Weighing instruments are valuable tools used by almost any industry. But these instruments suffer from wear and tear, especially when the device is subjected to harsh working conditions. Calibrating weighing scales is therefore crucial to maintaining the performance of such scales. However, the calibration needs to be done correctly; otherwise, poor calibration practices will only worsen the performance of a weighing scale.

Challenges with scale calibration

One of the primary misconceptions with scale calibration is that many industries think it is possible to do it themselves. Unfortunately, the calibration process is more complicated than initially perceived. You need to take the scale entirely out of commission so that the manufacturer can perform calibration. Putting a scale out of commission is a challenge, especially when the weighing device plays an integral role in the production cycle.

Scale calibration best practices

To ensure that scale calibration is effective, the following best practices need to be observed:

• Choosing the correct scale frequency. How frequently you calibrate a scale depends on legal requirements as well as commodity value. If the device is used in processing such as weighing ingredients or batches of products, calibration should be done more often. If the scale is also affected by environmental factors such as vibration, you may also need to calibrate more often.
• Using only certified weights. In selecting a company to conduct calibration, you need to ensure that they comply with legal requirements. Always check if the company complies with regulations on having their weights certified.
• Regular servicing and calibration. Do not wait until weighing instruments get put entirely out of commission. Yes, it adds to the additional overhead costs, but hiring a professional calibration company saves you the trouble of having to worry about decommissioned scales.
• Always choose a reputable scale calibration company. You need to be familiar with regulations that dictate industry standards on scale calibration. Before hiring a service provider, always check their credentials. Make sure that they have current accreditation and comply with state and national standards.
• Following the proper steps in calibration. The company should follow the step-by-step process of calibrating scales. Different types of scales undergo specific calibration processes. If the calibration company does not follow the recommended steps, there is a higher risk of endangering the safety of your equipment.
• Each calibration should be adequately documented. As the scale owner, you need to require the calibration company to keep detailed documentation of each test. Some of the vital information included in the documentation is the calibration company’s license number and credentials of the technician.

These best practices are generally applicable regardless of your industry. Nevertheless, some requirements vary depending on the type of scale as well as the individual compliance specifications expected. As such, it is always best to trust the services of a reputable and experienced scale calibration provider to ensure that each calibration test is done at the highest possible standards while at the same time guaranteeing compliance with all legal and industry-mandated requirements.