With regard to starting a calibration lab... I now know that my internal calibration procedures are most likely going to be acceptable, but, to be sure I will consider joining GIDEP for existing calibration procedures.
I am reviewing other calibration labs calibration certificates. On some of them I see they reference a specification b89.1. Specifically for a dial indicator, I see a specification reference of B89.1 1.10 - 1978. Should I also use this or a similar specification? What is in this specification that I should know about? Does anyone have a copy of this solely for private review? Do all calibration labs use such a document to perform calibrations? Does this document indicate acceptability of deviation? To this point I am performing calibrations of all dimensional hand tools with gauge blocks and a transfer stand? Would this spec. tell me my methods are inadquate as I cannot really calculate an error deviation of less than one increment? Thanks again folks, these forums are really helping..

There must be federal standards in existance, that indicate acceptable low/high limits for gauging equipment. For example: I am calibrating a 0-1" dial indicator with a resolution of .001". When I put a .5" gauge block under it, the indicator should read .5". What if the dial now reads half way between .5" and .501"? Is it written anywhere to say, for example +/- 1 graduation is acceptable? I know for some inspection tools, major gauge manufacturers do indicate a +/- gauge accuracy right in the catalogue. Along with this, they also indicate a federal spec. What is this spec? How do I get it for all measuring tools. I am doing a calibration job tomorrow with some offshore equipment.. How can I indicate an acception or rejection without this info. I have been to many sites and and all I can seem to find is rules of thumb...(ie) on a test indicator with graduations of .0001, the allowable tolerance is +/- .0001 or 1 graduation. Can anybody back this up? Once again, thankyou

Welcome to the Cove, peschi!:bigwave:

You posted all these questions related to setting up a calibration lab at the beginning of the weekend when most of our Covers take a much needed break.

The topic of "becoming" a calibration lab is one of the few Quality topics out of my experience and knowledge. I do know, however, that several of our regular Covers are VERY knowledgeable about this subject. It's the tail end of vacation season here in the States, leading up to Labor Day and many may be taking their last fling before the winter drearies set in.

Have patience. I feel certain we can start you on the right road.

Wes, thanks for the positive feedback. Even though I have just joined, these forums have greatly helped. Thanks again

peschi,

B89 is a good standard, though not as detailed as some of the procedures from GIDEP.

It may be suitable for simple after repair calibration however.

Hope this helps.

Hershal