Portable temperature calibrators

 

Portable Temperature Calibrators are versatile tools used to test and calibrate temperature sensors, transmitters, and gauges in the field or laboratory. These devices are compact, easy to transport, and designed to generate accurate and stable temperatures over a broad range, enabling on-site or on-demand temperature calibration.

Key Features of Portable Temperature Calibrators

1. Temperature Range: Typically ranges from as low as -45°C to as high as 1,200°C, depending on the model.
2. Portability: Lightweight and designed for field use, with robust enclosures for durability.
3. Accuracy and Stability: High stability ensures consistent temperature generation, often with accuracy within ±0.1°C or better.
4. Multifunctionality: Some models combine temperature generation with electrical signal simulation (e.g., mA, mV, or resistance for RTD and thermocouple testing).
5. Ease of Use: Intuitive controls and digital displays for real-time monitoring.
6. Power Options: Battery-operated or AC-powered for flexibility in different environments.

Types of Portable Temperature Calibrators

1. Dry Block Calibrators

• Description: Use a metal block heated or cooled to a setpoint for sensor calibration.
• Applications: Calibration of RTDs, thermocouples, and thermometers in the field.
• Key Features:
  • Fast heat-up and cool-down times.
  • Interchangeable inserts for different sensor diameters.
  • High temperature uniformity across the block.

2. Liquid Bath Calibrators

• Description: Use a fluid (oil, alcohol, or water) as the medium for calibration.
• Applications: Suitable for sensors requiring full immersion for accurate calibration.
• Key Features:
  • Excellent temperature uniformity and stability.
  • Wide temperature range with high accuracy.
  • Adaptability for irregular or fragile sensors.

3. Multifunction Temperature Calibrators

• Description: Combine a temperature source with electrical signal simulation and measurement capabilities.
• Applications: Calibration of temperature transmitters, sensors, and control loops.
• Key Features:
  • Simulates thermocouple, RTD, and resistance signals.
  • Measures and sources electrical signals (e.g., 4–20 mA or voltage).
  • Ideal for process control environments.

4. Infrared Temperature Calibrators

• Description: Provide a stable blackbody source for calibrating infrared thermometers or thermal cameras.
• Applications: Non-contact temperature sensor calibration.
• Key Features:
  • Adjustable emissivity for compatibility with various IR devices.
  • Compact and rugged for portability.

Applications of Portable Temperature Calibrators

1. Field Calibration: On-site verification of temperature sensors and transmitters in industrial facilities.
2. Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Identifying and correcting temperature measurement errors in process systems.
3. Quality Assurance: Ensuring compliance with temperature-related standards in regulated industries.
4. Calibration Laboratories: Portable solutions for backup or supplementary calibration needs.
5. HVAC and Refrigeration: Checking temperature sensors in climate control systems.

Advantages of Portable Temperature Calibrators

• Convenience: Allows for calibration directly at the point of use.
• Cost-Effective: Reduces downtime by enabling on-site validation.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of temperature sensors and applications.
• Reliability: High accuracy and stability ensure precise calibration.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Portable Temperature Calibrator

1. Temperature Range: Ensure it covers the required operating range of your sensors.
2. Accuracy and Stability: Match the calibrator's specifications to your application’s tolerance needs.
3. Size and Weight: Choose a model that is portable enough for fieldwork.
4. Sensor Compatibility: Verify compatibility with thermocouples, RTDs, or other sensor types.
5. Power Requirements: Consider battery life or availability of power sources on-site.
6. Durability: For field use, look for rugged designs with resistance to environmental factors.
7. Certifications: Calibration traceability to standards like NIST or ISO 17025.

Popular Manufacturers

• Fluke Calibration: Offers a wide range of reliable and precise temperature calibrators.
• AMETEK/Jofra: Known for compact and robust calibrators with high accuracy.
• WIKA: Provides user-friendly devices with excellent temperature stability.
• Additel: Specializes in multifunctional and portable calibration solutions.
• ISOTECH: Renowned for high-precision dry blocks and liquid baths.