Damaged Load Cell After Calibration - Who Should Pay?

[NikkiQSM]

Recently we had our mechanical tester calibrated. This mechanical tester has two grips - we place a plastic test part in each of the grips and it tears it apart. We measure the force it takes to break the part and the elongation.

We have used an outside company for the past 5 years to have the unit calibrated.

A few times, the internal measurements were screwed up after calibration and we have had to contact the company to come back and fix it.

This time, the measurement set up for the space between the grips was changed so the tech could conduct the calibration.

When the calibration was complete, we went to conduct a test as we usually do. We clicked on the "Start Position" button and the grips smashed together, possibly damaging and ruining the load cell.

Who should have to pay for this load cell which can be very expensive? Us or the calibration company.

ALSO - When we called to tell the company something was wrong, they basically told us to call the manufacturer of the mechanical company instead. We are not very pleased and definitely will be looking elsewhere for a different calibration company.

 

[Ninja]

Two answers to consider:

1. Details aside, the company who performed the action which resulted in the damage was yours. Worded another way, your company broke it, not theirs. 'Nuff said.

2. If you are looking for another calibration company and refuse to use this previous company anymore...see what you can negotiate out of the situation...what have you got to lose?

A wise man once said to me: "The answer is always no if you don't ask."
Of course he was talking about girls at the time...but it applies all over.

 

[Ron Rompen]

Unfortunately I have to agree with Ninja on this. The company performing the calibration did not damage the equipment - YOUR company did. Yes, the measurement space was changed, however it would be considered 'best practice' to verify that equipment is working properly after calibration and service, rather than just assuming everything was the way you left it.
You may want to review your service contract with your supplier, in case there is something noted there.

 

[thnksnow247]

Did the vendor say the equipment was put back to it's original condition?

I think you are on the hook here as it was you that didn't verify the correct setup before operating the equipment.

What machine do you have? Does it have over limit protection enabled? Most load cells can survive well over their rated limit.