What does calibration mean?

Determining and documenting the deviation from true, actual measure value of the value displayed by a measuring device or of the value given by checking equipment.

Calibration of measuring devices

Measuring "correctly" is of elementary significance, as it is not unusual for inaccurate or "wrong" measurements to have expensive economic consequences. Calibration or establishing the accuracy of checking equipment is carried out by accredited laboratories throughout the world in accordance with the DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 standard.

On an international level, the EA (European Co-Operation for Accreditation) and ILAC (International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation) Monitor the upholding of the highest quality standards. In Germany this is carried out by DAkkS.

When should you carry out DAkkS accredited calibration?

An accredited calibration is always necessary, when checking equipment is to be used in a QM process (e. g. in accordance with ISO 9000ff, TS 16949, VDA, FDA, GLP, GMP, …). The operator controls the use of checking equipment and periodic recalibration time intervals themselves. Calibration certificates with accreditation symbol are recognised internationally.

German accreditation point (DAkkS = Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle)

On the basis of EG regulation no. 765/2008, the accreditation point of the German calibration service (DKD) was transferred to the German accreditation point (DAkkS) with effect from 17.12.2009. Within DAkkS, this forms the metrology departement.

Who needs a calibration certificate with accreditation symbol?

In the context of standard requirements for monitoring checking equipment, every company with a quality management system is obliged to test and document ist measuring equipment at regular intervals. A calibration certificate with accreditation symbol fulfils this obligation.

The KERN calibration laboratory

(D-K-19408-01-00)

KERN has a highly-automated DAkkS accredited laboratory with accreditation to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 in the field of balances, test weights, force measurement, temperature and humidity. By using the most modern calibration technology with high-end calibration robots in fully air-conditioned laboratories, the measurement uncertainty and process times are reduced to a minimum, and also the quality of the calibration is increased. As an accredited and certified calibration service provider with decades of experience, we offer you an extensive range of services, which will leave no demand unfulfilled. 

Calibration and verification

Calibration means the determination of accuracy worldwide by a laboratory which is accredited to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025. Traceability to internationally recognised standards. The calibration certificate with accreditation symbol confirms both the metrological characteristics of the checking equipment and the general requirements for the monitoring of checking equipment.

Verification means testing to verification error limits to protect the consumer. When introducing balances and weights onto the market, they are subject to EU directives. The subsequent monitoring of the market is regulated at a national level, in Germany through the MessEG (Weights and Measures Act) and MessEV (Verification ordinance).