Preventing Damage to Your Force Calibration Equipment

When using force calibration equipment, it’s important to remember that it is a machine just like any other. That means they can be subject to damage and faults like all machines. Looking after your force calibration equipment and knowing how to prevent damage is crucial.

Not only can equipment damage result in inaccurate readings, but it can also cost a lot of money to repair or replace parts. This article aims to show you how to prevent common types of damage to force calibration equipment.

What is force calibration equipment?

A force calibration machine is used to test the amount of force being applied to an object or material. Basically, force is everywhere in nature, either as a push or pull mechanism. Specialist equipment is used to determine how much tension or impact something can endure. The equipment used in this testing produces data that’s invaluable to manufacturers.

For example, the manufacturers of children’s play equipment need to accurately determine how much weight it can support. The same goes for safety ropes used by rock climbers – how much tension and weight can the rope safely withstand? Basically, force calibration is a key component in giving customers the information they need to buy products suited to their desired application.

However, like all equipment used in any industry, force calibration equipment itself is still prone to malfunction when not used as prescribed.

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Types of force calibration equipment damage

There are a few common faults that you might experience with your force calibration equipment. Whether you use a universal machine, tensiometer calibrator, portable calibrating machine or other variation, these are the types of damage out for:

  • Severed cables
  • Load cell damage
  • Meter damage
  • Broken connectors

Being aware of these issues is important, but finding ways to prevent them from occurring is even more crucial.

Proper handling techniques

Everyone involved in the use or transportation of force calibration equipment should be properly trained. This equipment can be quite heavy, even though the load cells that may appear small in size. However, despite the weight of the equipment, that doesn’t mean it is impervious to damage. Dropping equipment or bumping it into other machinery can cause costly damage.

One particular part to be aware of is the connector. You can use protectors to keep the connector safe in the case of dropping or knocking the equipment. You should also have clear guidelines in place for packing and transporting this equipment to ensure it isn’t damaged in transit. Keeping components separated with sturdy barriers, rather than just bubble wrap or cloth.

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Protective cases

Using protective cases is another terrific way to keep your equipment safe in transport or even just when being stored. Heavy-duty cases come in many different varieties and help to reduce the risk of damage when your gear isn’t in use. The best cases come with custom-cut foam inside to house your individual components safely. It’s important to note that the foam can be damaged and deteriorate with time, so you might need to replace it regularly for peace of mind.

Custom-made crates

Another option if you need to transport your equipment is to use strong crates that can handle more weight. Protective cases are great for smaller components, but the larger parts may be too heavy. Always look for custom-designed crates that keep the weight centred. A well-built crate will also have individual space for smaller components, as well as some foam inserts to stop them from moving around inside.For all of your force calibration equipment needs, as well as expert advice on caring for and maintaining your equipment, contact NWI Group today.