Two of the most common questions we get are "Are these scales calibrated?" and "Do they come with a calibration certificate?". To answer these questions, we will cover what a factory calibration is, and how a service calibration by a provider like Scales Plus differs.

What is a Factory Calibration? 

A factory calibration is a verification performed by the manufacturer as a quality check. The scales are tested, and if necessary, calibrated to ensure they are performing within their specifications. However, these results are generally not published or documented, meaning no calibration certificate is provided and there is no traceability. The best way to think about a factory calibration is that it is strictly a quality control procedure. 

There are instances where a manufacturer will provide a factory calibration and include documentation. This is rather uncommon, but there are some that provide that service on specific models. At Scales Plus, any products available with a factory calibration certificate are noted in the product details and included in the pricing.

What is a Service Calibration?

Service calibrations are performed by a professional scale service provider like Scales Plus. Calibrations are performed by trained technicians following industry standards with the traceable test weights. The results of the calibration are documented, and a NIST-traceable calibration certificate is provided. Certificates show the "as found" and "as left" data, documents the test weights used, lists the load test points, and includes information about the location and environmental status where the calibration was performed.

Which One Do You Need?

Whether you need a factory or service calibration depends on your individual quality or regulatory requirements. Here are several things to consider:

• Does your quality system require documented third-party calibration?
• Do you require verification and qualification of equipment before it is put into production?
• Does your organization require ISO accredited calibration certificates? 

If any of the above are true, you will need a service provider to calibrate your instruments either on-site at your location or at the time of order. A factory calibration would not provide sufficient documentation or traceability.

Did you know Scales Plus offers calibration services for new equipment?