Regular calibration of tablet hardness testers is essential for maintaining accurate, reliable quality control measurements.
Calibration Importance
Load cell calibration services ensure equipment adheres to legal and quality requirements. Incorrect measurements can lead to product defects, financial losses, or safety hazards.
Key Parameters to Calibrate
Force Measurement
The primary calibration involves verifying the load cell accuracy:
- Use certified reference weights
- Test at multiple points across the measurement range
- Compare readings to known standards
- Adjust or replace load cell if outside tolerance
Jaw Movement
Verify consistent jaw travel and positioning:
- Check speed of compression
- Verify parallel alignment
- Ensure smooth, consistent motion
Thickness Measurement
For testers with integrated thickness gauges:
- Use calibrated gauge blocks
- Verify accuracy across range
- Check for wear on measuring surfaces
Calibration Procedure
- Preparation: Clean equipment and allow temperature stabilization
- Zero Verification: Confirm zero point without load
- Low-Range Check: Test at lower end of measurement range
- Mid-Range Check: Test at typical operating range
- High-Range Check: Test at upper limit
- Documentation: Record all results and adjustments
Maintenance Methods
Regular maintenance ensures continued accuracy:
- Clean jaws to remove tablet fragments
- Replace batteries in portable units
- Inspect load cell connections
- Verify software/firmware updates
Calibration Frequency
- Daily: Zero verification
- Weekly: Quick accuracy check
- Monthly: Full calibration verification
- Annually: Complete calibration with certification
Documentation
Maintain calibration records including:
- Date and technician
- Standards used
- Results before and after adjustment
- Next calibration due date