What should you consider when selecting a quality calibration lab? The best calibration laboratories have years of experience in various industries, are respected for their reputation, possess the relevant accreditations and certifications, provide customizable solutions, and have excellent customer relations.
However, before you start to evaluate your options, you should understand exactly what a metrology laboratory is and how one can benefit your operations. Explore the basics of calibration laboratories and tips for choosing a calibration supplier below.
In This Article
- What Is a Metrology Laboratory?
- Why Use a Metrology Laboratory for Your Calibration Needs?
- Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Metrology Laboratory for Calibration
- Should You Outsource Your Calibration and Metrology Services?
- Learn More From MicronPA Today
What Is a Metrology Laboratory?
A metrology laboratory provides calibration services across various industries, such as defense, aerospace, automotive, pharmaceutical and medical. This type of lab compares the accuracy of an instrument’s measurements to calibration standards, including those set by the National Insititute of Standards and Technology. This standards comparison helps ensure compliance, enhance safety and improve the overall efficiency of work.
Why Use a Metrology Laboratory for Your Calibration Needs?
Using a metrology lab is important for several reasons:
- Compliance: Many industries have regulatory and quality assurance requirements that demand calibrated instruments. Metrology labs can inspect your equipment and help you calibrate them to reduce or eliminate the risk of regulatory breaches.
- Expertise: Metrology labs employ qualified personnel and follow strict procedures when conducting calibration activities, enabling them to provide high-quality services. They acquire valuable skills with practical experience and training, which you can leverage to enhance your calibration efforts.
- Efficiency: Equipment can become inaccurate after an extended duration, making it essential to conduct regular calibration. Metrology labs can help you identify and address issues promptly, improving accuracy, consistency and performance.
- Safety: Many sensitive projects require high levels of accuracy and error-free procedures for optimal safety. Metrology labs can help you create conducive working environments through instrument calibration.
- Customer satisfaction: Metrology can help you produce quality and reliable products for customers. This level of service builds trust and loyalty, increasing profitability.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Metrology Laboratory for Calibration
If you require a metrology lab for calibration, you should know how to select one that will provide premier service and meet your operation’s unique needs. Here are eight tips to help you choose the best calibration service provider:
1. Consider Experience
The company’s track record is an essential starting point when considering instrument calibration providers. Knowing how long the company has worked in the industry and how they’ve assisted customers can help you determine whether you are making a suitable investment. The company must have experience in your industry and insight to perform as expected. They must also have qualified professionals to conduct all operations.
You can find this information from your initial engagements with the company. Ask about the years they have in the industry and the nature of the work they have completed. Consider also checking out the labs online to see what you can find about their experience on their websites.
2. Review Brand and Reputation
Brand and reputation are integral in every business engagement. You want to work with a trustworthy organization capable of fulfilling its promises. Dealing with a reputable company brings additional value beyond its core services, as you know you can rely on them.
Check online reviews and client testimonials for more information. If possible, speak with current and past customers to learn more about the lab’s results.
3. Check Certifications and Accreditation
Accreditations and certifications are crucial in the equipment calibration industry for several reasons. They confirm an organization’s adherence to specific management and technical standards for running quality operations. Accreditation authorities also monitor these companies closely to ensure they comply with industry best practices, which, by extension, means you get the best services.
4. Confirm Price
Price is an essential factor for every business. The challenge is that some companies choose the least expensive option, which turns out to be costly in the long run due to a lack of quality services.
Getting an affordable price is always the goal, but you should determine what you get for that price. The lab you select must meet your needs, so you do not have to hire a different company to redo the process or correct errors.
When considering the cost aspects of working with a lab, you should prepare a budget, watch out for hidden costs, and check for free quotes.
5. Leverage Capabilities
Search for organizations with the right equipment and staff to execute complex tasks. Examine their areas of specialization to know whether they can provide the services you need. You can also ask about their processes to see if they are the ideal choice.
Conducting calibration testing requires advanced software, equipment and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Choosing a lab that understands the latest trends and standards can keep you on the cutting edge.
Finally, verify whether the calibration lab can provide on-site services and mobile calibration where necessary.
6. Consider Turnaround Time
The instrument calibration provider must be capable of providing accurate and quality measures quickly. Some processes take time, but the best calibration labs streamline operations to provide swift services where possible.
The turnaround time may differ depending on whether the calibration is done on-site or in the lab, so it’s crucial to inquire when deciding. In any case, the company should prioritize communication and provide regular updates to help you make informed decisions.
7. Opt for Customizable Calibration Solutions
Equipment calibration is necessary to ensure the best outcomes for all applications. While there are general standards, the best laboratories can work with customers to determine and implement additional requirements for specific applications
Customizable calibration solutions enhance flexibility. You can tailor calibration services to fit unique organizational needs, improving innovation and workflow.
8. Prioritize Customer Service
Top instrument calibration service providers strive to understand and meet customer needs and communicate effectively. They provide regular, transparent and clear updates, which is vital and helpful for decision-making. The best companies are also responsive and reliable. They look to form long-term partnerships necessary in every business relationship.
Should You Outsource Your Calibration and Metrology Services?
There are many benefits to outsourcing your calibration services to a reliable third party. You benefit from the company’s rich resources and get verified, accurate results. This strategy also reduces costs, considering the expense of acquiring and maintaining equipment and training professionals. Many businesses employ this strategy because it allows them to focus on their core operations while an expert handles calibration and metrology.
Learn More From MicronPA Today
MicronPA has provided trusted and certified calibration and metrology services for over 20 years. We service many industries, including aerospace, automotive, defense, pharmaceutical and medical.
Our team can complete off- and on-site gage calibration, mechanical calibration, electronic calibration and physical dimensional calibration. We also provide 3D metrology and other specialty services.
Do you want to learn more about how we can help you with your calibration needs? Contact us today!
