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A Technical Overview of Pressure Calibration and Instrumentation for Process Industries.
In process-intensive industries such as oil & gas, chemical manufacturing, food processing, and pharmaceuticals, pressure measurement is a critical parameter for safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. However, pressure transmitters, gauges, and switches can drift over time, leading to inaccurate readings and process deviations.
This is where pressure calibrators play an essential role—ensuring that pressure instrumentation remains accurate, traceable, and reliable throughout its operational life. In this article, we explore the functions, types, and selection criteria of pressure calibrators, and how they support industrial excellence and compliance with global standards.
What Is a Pressure Calibrator?
A pressure calibrator is a device used to verify and adjust the accuracy of pressure measuring instruments. It generates known pressure values and compares them against the readings of the instrument under test.
Calibration may be performed at:
Low pressure (e.g., HVAC, biomedical)
Medium pressure (e.g., hydraulic, industrial automation)
High pressure (e.g., energy, aerospace, oilfield operations)
Types of instruments calibrated include:
Pressure gauges
Pressure transmitters
Pressure sensors
Differential pressure devices
Pressure switches and valves
Why Pressure Calibration Matters
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Safety Assurance | Prevents dangerous overpressure or underpressure conditions |
| Process Integrity | Maintains consistent flow, quality, and control in automated systems |
| Regulatory Compliance | Required by standards like ISO 17025, FDA, ASME, and OSHA |
| Operational Efficiency | Reduces unplanned downtime and product waste |
| Traceability | Provides documented evidence for audits and customer requirements |
Even a small deviation in pressure measurement can lead to defective products, non-compliance, or serious accidents—especially in high-risk environments.
Types of Pressure Calibrators
🔧 1. Handheld Pressure Calibrators
Portable and easy to use
Generate and measure pressure up to ~10,000 psi
Often include electrical loop testing (mA, voltage)
Ideal for field service, HVAC, and plant maintenance
Example Models: Fluke 718, Additel 760, Druck DPI 610E
⚙️ 2. Bench Pressure Calibrators (Stationary)
High precision and stability
Wide pressure ranges, better resolution
Often used in calibration labs or QA departments
Integrated with deadweight testers or pressure comparators
Example Models: WIKA CPC6000, Additel 780, Crystal Engineering HPC50
🌡️ 3. Automated Pressure Calibrators
Fully programmable sequences
Reduce human error and increase throughput
Integrated with calibration software and databases
Suitable for production lines and accredited calibration labs
Example Applications: FDA validation, medical device QA, aerospace compliance
🔩 4. Pressure Calibrators with Electrical Modules
Some Pressure Measurement also measure:
Loop current (mA)
Voltage signals (V)
Switch response time
Sensor diagnostics
➡️ These are useful for verifying transmitters, which convert pressure into electronic signals.
How to Choose the Right Pressure Calibrator
| Selection Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Pressure Range | Ensure calibrator exceeds the maximum expected process pressure |
| Accuracy Requirements | Defined by process criticality and applicable standards (e.g. ±0.025% FS) |
| Portability | Field technicians need compact, battery-powered models |
| Media Compatibility | Gas or liquid? Some calibrators are media-specific |
| Connectivity | USB, RS232, Bluetooth for data logging and remote control |
| Software Integration | Support for calibration management software (CMMS, LIMS) |
Common Applications in Industry
| Sector | Pressure Calibration Use Cases |
|---|---|
| Oil & Gas | Pipeline pressure validation, safety valve testing |
| Pharmaceutical | Autoclave calibration, cleanroom pressure control |
| Food & Beverage | Pasteurization and fermentation control |
| Aerospace | Cabin pressurization systems, hydraulic actuation tests |
| Energy | Steam generation, turbine systems, fluid power control |
Compliance and Certification
To ensure traceability and regulatory acceptance, calibration must:
Be performed with standards traceable to NIST, DAkkS, or ISO/IEC 17025
Be documented with certificates showing uncertainty and pass/fail criteria
Include pre- and post-adjustment data when applicable
Follow a documented calibration procedure and schedule
Why Work With a Professional Supplier
At Jansen Calibration, we offer:
Certified pressure calibrators from trusted brands (Fluke, Additel, Druck, WIKA)
Full calibration service with ISO 17025 traceability
Consultation to help select the right device per application
Global shipping and multilingual technical support
Our experts help ensure your process pressure measurements are accurate, compliant, and audit-ready—every time.
Conclusion
As industrial systems become more automated and tightly regulated, the role of pressure calibrators grows increasingly important. By investing in the correct pressure calibration tools and maintaining a regular calibration schedule, organizations can minimize risk, improve product quality, and meet the demands of global compliance.
📩 Looking for a certified pressure calibrator for your operation?
👉 Browse our product catalog at Jansen Calibration
