When a measuring instrument is due for calibration, many companies in the UAE ask one question: should the technician come to our site, or should we send the instrument to a laboratory?
Both methods are valid. The right choice depends on the instrument, the accuracy you need, how long you can stop using the equipment, and what your auditor or customer requires.
Caltech supports calibration for businesses in Sharjah and across the UAE. This guide explains the difference so you can plan the next service correctly.
What is laboratory calibration?
Laboratory calibration is done in a controlled workshop or lab. The instrument is brought to the calibration provider. Reference standards, stable temperature and a quieter environment help produce a reliable result.
Laboratory calibration is often preferred when:
- the instrument is portable (multimeter, gauge, thermometer, caliper)
- you need tighter measurement accuracy
- the instrument must be compared against laboratory reference standards
- the item is not fitted into a large machine
- you can spare the instrument for a short period
What is on-site calibration?
On-site calibration is done at your factory, warehouse, plant or workshop. A technician visits with portable standards and performs the work where the equipment is used.
On-site calibration is often preferred when:
- the equipment is large, fixed or difficult to move
- stopping a production line for shipping would cost too much
- you have many instruments in one location
- you need service with minimum downtime
- process instruments must be checked in the installed position
On-site or laboratory: quick comparison
There is no single best method for every company. A mixed plan is common: portable tools go to the lab, installed process instruments are done on site.
What auditors usually want to see
ISO and customer audits do not only ask “was it calibrated?” They also ask:
- Is there a certificate?
- Is the result traceable?
- Was the instrument in tolerance?
- What is the next due date?
- Can you prove the instrument was not used while overdue?
Whether the work was on-site or in a lab, keep the certificate, asset ID and due date in your register.
Instruments commonly calibrated both ways
Caltech calibration programmes often include:
- electrical testers and multimeters
- pressure gauges and transmitters
- temperature sensors, thermometers and humidity meters
- scales and balances
- calipers, micrometers and torque tools
- flow, force and gas detection equipment
Tell us the manufacturer, model, range, required accuracy and whether the item can be moved. That decides the method.
How to request a quotation from Caltech
Send this list:
- Instrument name and quantity
- Manufacturer and model
- Range and required accuracy
- Location in Sharjah / Dubai / other UAE emirate
- On-site or laboratory preference
- Required completion date
We will review the list and advise the practical option.
Caltech
Sharjah, UAE
Phone: +971 50 485 0456
Email: info@caltech-eng.com
Website: https://caltech-eng.com/contact-us/