Calibration

comparing an instrument with a reference

Calibration compares a measuring instrument with a reference standard of higher accuracy and records the deviation. Traceable calibration links the result through an unbroken chain to national or international standards.

If an instrument is found out of calibration, previous results must be assessed for validity and the affected product handled.

Common mistake

Treating a valid calibration sticker as proof that the measurement system is good. Calibration says nothing about repeatability or operator influence; that is MSA.

Calculate it

Type 1 Gauge Study (Cg, Cgk): Cg, Cgk and bias test from repeated measurements of one master part.

Related terms

• Bias: systematic measurement error
• Traceability: following a product through its history
• %GRR: gauge repeatability and reproducibility