Today, in order to minimize possible existence of errors and greater cost of manufacturing, flaw detection equipment or methods are greatly needed. In fact, more and more companies and laboratories used reference standards such calibration to assure that minimum flaw or error can be detected.
As defined, calibration refers to the process of checking and adjusting the accuracy of a certain unit by comparing its end results with a known significant value. But, aside from minimizing the possible error in a certain endeavor, calibration is important because it can avoid the further degradation of any measurement due to prolonged use, intended abuse, drifts, or even aging.
OVERSEEING THE CALIBRATION PROCESS
In fact, ISO9000 and other standards state that the maximum period between calibration and re-calibration should at least be once every two years or more regularly if instrument degradation is becoming more and more noticeable during specified period. But, in order to ensure the quality of the measurement, many companies and users opt to implement annual calibrations.
Since calibration is required by national and international standards—usually agencies that require a specific system of periodic calibration and maintenance to avoid destructive testing—companies must hire a person that would oversee the calibration process—the calibration technician.
Expected to calibrate, adjust, and repair test measurement and diagnostic equipment, calibration technicians are also required to follow all 17025 and/or standard metrology, procedures, polices and practices. Calibration technicians are also expected to calibrate mechanical, electrical, and optical measuring instruments while preparing written calibration procedures and ensure their proper implementation as well as oversee calibration activities within the department. Aside from these, calibration technicians are expected to:
- Suggest and create changes to the usual calibration procedures
- Able to provide calibration certificate data to Metrology Manager
- Know when to notify the Calibration manager if an out of tolerance condition is discovered
- Give an off site support for the customers
- Able to meet the statutory and regulatory requirements like having the ability to lift 50lbs unassisted and the like.
- Aware when to stop working and inform proper management upon observing a non-conformance in the procedure
- Have calibration certification or equivalent experience
- Understand and comply with management policy and adhere to its quality policy.
To be able to become a calibration technician, a university degree in a related technical discipline complemented with a background in Mathematics and Physics is a must. Usually, those who have excellent written and verbal communication skills have more advantage over those who don’t.
Aside from that, most companies also require their calibration technician to gain advanced understanding of related, complex concepts and procedures.
Jose Amoros
No comments:
Post a Comment