GAUGE BLOCK CALIBRATION

The Gauge block was invented in at the end of the nineteenth century; this makes gauge block calibration among the oldest high precision calibrations in dimensional metrology. The main purpose of a Gauge clock is to standardize length- over time the necessity for higher accuracy has become a largely recognized issue for gauge blocks- making gauge block calibration and gauge block re-calibration vital to be sure that measurements are of the highest precision and quality. So you may wonder, when do I get my Gauge block re-calibrated? There are a handful of things to be considered when it comes to this; here are a few general guidelines:

WHEN TO GET YOUR GAUGE BLOCK RE-CALIBRATED?

• The more often you use your gauge blocks (especially those used for jobs requiring the highest precision possible) you should get your blocks calibrated more frequently as the constant use can cause need for adjustment
• A gauge block being used less often or is the block is being used on jobs with a larger window for uncertainty, gauge block re-calibration would be required less frequently.
• For newer gauge blocks it is suggested to do an annual calibration- this way you can see if, over the course of the year, calibration is required. Once a trend history is established based on the specific block and how it adjusts based on the amount/type of work you do is when you can begin to change that blocks calibration schedule to either expand or shorten the time between calibrations.
• If you have not used the block in 2-3 years, calibrate before you bring it out of retirement for use. Gauge blocks can change even when they are not in use.

What should you look for in a calibration lab?
Here’s our guide.