Checklist: calibration of measurement equipment
Keep track of when your slide rule, micrometer screw and measuring clock were last inspected
A measuring instrument that has taken damage or is worn does not necessarily show an obviously wrong number — it just shows a slightly wrong number that looks credible. Therefore a fixed calibration routine is one of the cheapest insurance policies you can make at a fine mechanics workshop.
§Before you put an instrument into operation
- 01Is the instrument free from visible damage, scratches or wear on the measuring surfaces?
- 02Has the zero point been checked (e.g. caliper jaws fully closed)?
- 03Is there a calibration certificate or marking with the latest control date?
- 04Is the instrument suitable for the tolerance you need to check (at least approximately 10 times finer)?
§PLACEHOLDER_17
- 01Check regularly against a reference measure or calibrated block
- 02Store the instrument in a case or box when not in use
- 03Avoid temperature shock—let instrument and item equalize temperature before fine measurement.
- 04Report immediately if an instrument is dropped or subjected to impact
§Calibration log
| Instrument | Serial no. | Last calibrated | Next calibration | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sliding gauge | ||||
| Micrometer screw 0-25 mm | ||||
| Measurement | ||||
| Thread-locking lacquer/adhesive, spring washers or lock nuts |
Use the log actively — hang it by the measuring equipment or integrate it into the company's quality system so that it is visible to everyone when each instrument was last checked and when it should be checked again.