The difference between calibration and verification of measuring instruments

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This post was last edited by Wise Ming on 2025-1-10 at 10:41. Many people struggle to distinguish between calibration and verification; I’m sharing this post to help everyone understand how to tell them apart and what the differences are 1. Definition of different types of verification: An activity aimed at determining, through experiments in accordance with **metrological verification regulations**, whether the indication error of measuring instruments meets the required standards. The scope of verification refers to the measuring instruments for which mandatory verification is stipulated by China’s Metrology Law. Calibration: The process of determining the indicated value of a measuring instrument through experiments, in accordance with relevant calibration standards. Typically, the error of the instrument under measurement with respect to a high-precision standard is determined by making comparative measurements, thereby obtaining a correction value for the reading of the instrument under measurement. Calibration is mainly used for measuring instruments that are not subject to mandatory verification. 2. Verification for different ranges: The scope refers to the measuring instruments for which mandatory verification is stipulated by China’s Metrology Law. (See **List of Instruments Subject to Mandatory Verification**) Calibration: This category applies mainly to measuring instruments that are not subject to mandatory verification. 3. Different natures: Verification is mandatory and constitutes an enforcement action falling within the scope of legal metrology management. Calibration: It is not mandatory and represents a voluntary traceability action by the organization. 4. Based on different inspections: Inspection procedures uniformly established by **authorized metrology departments. Calibration: The calibration specifications or methods can be established through **uniform regulations, or they can be developed by the organization itself. 5. Inspection at different intervals: Conducted in accordance with the mandatory inspection intervals specified by Chinese law. Calibration: Determined by the organization according to its usage needs; it can be carried out regularly, irregularly, or before use. 6. Conclusion: Different types of testing – Based on the range of value errors specified in the testing procedures, a decision is made as to whether the product is qualified or not, and a certificate of conformity is issued. Calibration: It does not determine whether the device is qualified or not; only the indication error is assessed, and a calibration certificate or report is issued.