Calibration

Course details

Calibration is a key component in all systems where instruments are used to collect measurements for the purpose of assessing the reliability and capability of manufacturing operations, testing products against specification in laboratories, and determining compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements. The accuracy of such measurements is dependent on regular calibration of the measuring instruments. The calibration requirements in standards such as ISO 9001 and ISO/TS 16949 (automotive), and relevant FDA documents, must be complied with in the relevant industrial sectors.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this training course, delegates should be able to:

• Develop a calibration system procedures in accordance with ISO 9001, ISO/TS 16949 or FDA (device) requirements
• Demonstrate understanding of measuring instrument terminology such as bias, accuracy, precision, resolution, repeatability, traceability, uncertainty of measurement
• Choose the instruments that require inclusion in the calibration system
• Select appropriate calibration intervals

Course Programme

• General introduction to calibration and its objectives
• Explanation of terminology used e.g. Precision, Accuracy, Traceability, Metrology, Measurement Uncertainty
• Selection of measurement tools, gages and instruments and interpretation of accuracy statements
• The role of the product specification
• Dealing with non-conforming instruments
• Destructive and non-destructive measurement and test
• Interpretation of calibration certificates
• Examples of Instrument calibration
• Questions and Answers on most commonly used instruments
• Developing a calibration system – interpretation, evaluation and traceability to calibration standards

There will be substantial time devoted to discussion on the management and administration of the calibration system, in particular on the procedures and systems that it is necessary to have in place to meet the requirements of the ISO 9001 standard and other quality system standards, and how to deal with quality audits on calibration. The first part of the course is devoted to technical issues to do with calibration, while the latter part of the course deals with management and administration issues. The course does not include actual demonstrations of instrument calibration.