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Interface Calibration 101

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Calibration of force and torque sensors is critical to receiving accurate data from measurement testing.  Calibration is the comparison of the instruments output against the known standard of measurement. For a load cell, it is the comparison of the load cell output against the standard test loads.

The calibration ensures the sensor is performing accurately and set for ideal output based on the capacity and configuration of the design. A standard calibration tests repeatability and linearity, which are both used to determine the accuracy. Calibration tests are run to identify any potential measurement errors caused by zero offset, non-linearity, hysteresis, non-repeatability, and shifts from zero.

The team of calibration experts at Interface are specifically trained to provide this specialized service as part of our quality and lab standard requirements of operations. Interface is ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and A2LA Accredited for Torque and Force Calibration in accordance with the recognized International Standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017.

Interface certifies all our load cells with accredited calibration before releasing the product for shipment. Certificate information includes tabulated measurement variables data, zero balance, computed nonlinearity and hysteresis, and traceability statements. We are often recognized as the most complete calibration certification in the industry

In a recent customer survey, we found that one of the most important roles that Interface force measurement solutions play is for our calibration services. This is due to the accuracy, reliability, and dependability over long periods of time of the load cells we manufacture and service.

Why Calibrate?

Calibration is important based on many different factors, including continued performance, safety, and compliance with ISO or industry specific standards. Interface’s standard recommended calibration interval is to recalibrate every 12 months. The frequency of calibrations should be determined by the following use case factors that may affect measurement accuracy:

  • Measurement quality and allowable tolerance range
  • Level of stress to which the equipment is subjected
  • Stability of past calibrations
  • Required measuring accuracy
  • Quality assurance requirements

Interface Calibration Services

Interface provides calibration and repair services on load cells and torque transducers, including devices made by other sensor manufacturers. In fact, Interface performs more than 100,000 calibrations every year. This includes new products as well as devices sent to Interface for recalibration and repair. Repairs include a complete evaluation of the device prior to repair and calibration upon completion.

In addition, here are some other benefits for choosing Interface as your calibration services partner:

  • ISO 17025 Accredited
  • Scheduled Repairs for Ongoing Inventory Management
  • Custom Calibration Services
  • RMA Tracking and Permanent Archive of Test Data
  • NMI Certified Gold and Platinum Standard Reference Load Cells
  • Interface Gold Standard Calibration Software Used for Data Collection and Analysis
  • Full-Service Machine Shop for any Mechanical Requirements

Calibration Services Process

The Interface calibration team consists of a team of professionals dedicated to an optimized calibration and repair process for timely management of our customer’s requests. We begin the calibration service process with our technical services group who manage the request and RMA process, in addition to evaluation and troubleshooting.

We evaluate all products at our headquarters with our team of experts. The sensor goes through a thorough inspection process to identify any necessary repairs and to ensure device is in working condition in preparation of a calibration. This includes an electrical test. Based on the extensive evaluation, if the device is found to be unrepairable, there is no charge. We also will work to find a replacement unit. All work beyond the evaluation is sent to the customer for approval.

The final step in our calibration services process is the actual calibration. Our calibration team is considered the most experienced in the industry due to the sheer volume of work product they calibrate every day.  Interface also is heavily invested in conducting all our calibrations with the most advanced equipment, including our proprietary Gold Standard® and Platinum Standard® systems. These machines ensure that the transducers are calibrated to the most accurate ability possible before returning to the customer.

Even the most high-end manufactured load cells and finely tuned components endure accuracy degradation over continued use. To ensure your sensors are always ready for peak performance, check out our calibration services request form. We also provide a full range of calibration grade products for metrology and testing labs. You can also give us a call at 480-948-5555 to discuss your specific calibration needs.

 

Calibration for Crane Scale and Dynamometer Applications

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Interface is well-known for excelling at calibration services for load cells. Did you know this service excellence extends to dynamometers and crane scales?

Interface can calibrate dynamometers and crane scales with capacities of 100,000 pounds of force or more. This family of devices is often found in industrial, commercial, energy, military, and aerospace industry applications.

Crane scales are used as overhead weighing solutions ranging from light to heavy capacities and are normally placed in the load string of a crane. The devices provide crane overload protection, as well as information about the handling of bulk material.  Some models are equipped with wireless communications to allow monitoring from safe distances at multiple locations.

Dynamometers, which are sometimes referred to as tension links or dyna-links, are also used in many overhead weighing applications. These devices are usually smaller and lighter than crane scales allowing them to be used in vertical and horizontal positions.  In addition to weighing and crane overload protection applications, dynamometers are often used for crane certification, elevator certification, and several other inline test and measurement applications.

What really makes Interface different when it comes to our calibration services for crane scales and dynamometers?

First, our calibration equipment is custom-made for this exact purpose. That means we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to your specific calibration needs, giving you the peace of mind that your calibrations are done correctly.

Second, we have decades of experience providing industry-leading service and putting our customers first. We are sought out for this service for a reason—because we get it done right.

Additionally, Interface does not use hybrid systems for its calibrations. We use direct force application and NIST traceable force standards with customized fixture assemblies for each type of equipment. These important distinctions allow us to focus on providing the best-accredited calibrations for crane scales and dynamometers available in the industry.

Not only are we recognized experts in calibration services, but Interface is also known globally for reliability, accuracy, and longevity of its products. Interface manufactures force products which are used worldwide in test and measurement applications, as well as our own renowned metrology lab. Our specialized engineering and metrology teams pay close attention to the performance data of these standards. With proper maintenance and regular calibrations by Interface, we provide assurance that load cells are operating at the highest standard.

Interface understands that aerospace and military engineering professionals cannot wait long periods of time to receive their load cells after calibration service. We are known for our quick turnaround time. We make sure load cells, crane scales, dynamometers, and other force measurement equipment is calibrated to perfection expeditiously, to prevent significant disruption to any operations.

“Interface’s 51 years of experience in manufacturing and calibrating force measurement devices makes us one of the largest and most sought-after calibration service providers in the world. Our team follows strict standards and protocols to make sure our customers are receiving the best calibrations possible.”  Mike Cobb, Director of Services.

This year, Interface introduced a new Tiered Calibration Services Program to offer customized and expedited services.  No matter the tier of service, Interface services receive a warranty and all our service is ISO 17025 accredited calibration service. To schedule a service, visit here.