Calibrating Load Cells

ISO9000 and many other standards specify the maximum period between re-calibration as once every two years and more frequently if the instrument deterioration is significant during that period (typically more than 1%.)

Many load cell users adopt an annual calibration as the standard interval to ensure that measurements are always as accurate as possible, which is particularly important if they are being used for safety-critical applications. However, although many load cell users choose annual calibration, very few do a comparison between the current calibration and the previous calibration to determine the degree of accuracy drop-off.

This is a highly useful exercise, as the results can be used to determine a more suitable re-calibration time period, which may even be more frequently than one year if the load cell is being used in a particularly harsh environment or arduous operational conditions (high vibration levels, excessive cyclic loading).

If the load cell is used infrequently, it may not be necessary to re-calibrate it every 2 years. The accuracy required for each load cell’s specific application, and risks associated with its use, should also be considered when deciding how often to re-calibrate a unit.

Please contact prosupport@spinlock.co.uk to arrange calibrating your load cell