HOW TO CHOOSE A CALIBRATION LAB FOR YOUR MKS VACUUM GAUGE

Finding a calibration lab for your MKS vacuum gauge can be hard. Below are a 5 questions you should be asking yourself before choosing a provider to ensure you receive accurate and quality service.

QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Is the provider ISO/IEC 17025 accredited?

Accredited calibrations labs are rigorously assessed on factors relevant to the operation of the lab. During assessment, accrediting bodies observe the personnel, the equipment and the environment to ensure all meet ISO 17025 standard. This quality management system is considered the highest standard, therefore any lab that meets its requirements is deemed technical competent to the highest degree. If a lab you are considering is accredited and includes calibration of your MKS vacuum gauge in their scope of accreditation, this means the lab is fully equipped to give you accurate measurements on your instrument.

PERSONNEL

Are the technicians familiar with the measurements needed for your gauge?

Laboratory personnel should meet the qualifications you are looking for in order to properly calibrate your vacuum gauge. If a lab is accredited and includes your vacuum gauge in their scope of accreditation, this means the personnel have been assessed on this procedure and are knowledgeable in accurately calibrating your vacuum gauge. By choosing an accredited lab with personnel who specialize in the measurements you are seeking, you are guaranteeing yourself quality results.

ENVIRONMENT

Is the laboratory environment controlled?

Not all laboratories have a monitored and controlled environment. When choosing a laboratory it’s important to note that an environment that is monitored is desired. This is because certain environment conditions, such as temperature and humidity, can interfere with measurement results. Accredited calibration labs are required to consistently monitor their environment to ensure there are no adverse effects.

TRACEABILITY

Does the provider offer calibration certificates and data sheets?

Traceability is essential when it comes to calibrations. When a provider can show proof that an instrument is traceable through NIST, customers can feel confident in the service they are receiving. Accredited calibration labs are required to trace all instruments calibrated through NIST.

PRICING

How much will the service cost?

Costs for calibration can be very costly. Don’t let a price tag scare you. Quality over quantity is the best moto to follow when calibrating your MKS vacuum gauge. If you choose to go with a lab that has cheaper prices but isn’t accredited, you are not guaranteeing yourself accuracy. Notably, it will cost you more to pay for a cheap calibration that ends up failing compared to paying for an accredited calibration that will give you precise results.

Everything you need to know about MKS vacuum gauge calibration and maintenance
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