Calibration Test Blocks
About Calibration Test Blocks
Calibration test blocks are nonrepresentative tools, meaning that they are not manufactured from actual parts. Rather, they are of simplified design and contain manufactured discontinuities such as holes, angles, radii and more. Calibration Test Blocks serve the purpose of standardizing and calibrating test equipment to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Calibration Test Blocks are machined in the same manner as other metal parts, using normal machine shop equipment such as saws, milling machines, lathes, surface grinders and engravers. There are many organizations that govern the manufacture of standard test blocks, such as IIW, ASME, ASTM, ISO, and many others.
As with any good manufacturing process, there are several important things to consider when manufacturing test blocks. Good quality raw materials of the correct alloys are the place to start. Most specifications list the desired alloy, or leave it up to the manufacturer of the blocks and the client to make the right decision. PH Tool™ always performs a pre-machining ultrasonic inspection of the raw material to determine that the stock is free from pre-existing discontinuities.
What kind of paperwork comes with the blocks? All calibration test blocks ship with a NIST-traceable Certification Report stating that the block meets applicable specifications. A Material Test Report (MTR) is also included to maintain heat or lot traceability of the raw material to the producing mill. PH Tool also includes a Positive Material Identification (PMI) Test Report with all standard blocks, showing the results of a chemical analysis obtained in-house with our XRF analyzer. The PMI report adds an extra level of certainty that the correct materials were used in manufacture. If this is not enough, customers also have the ability to purchase a Full-dimensional Inspection Report, showing all of the as-built dimensions of the block. This is not merely a close approximation of accuracy; the dimensions must be carefully obtained and compiled into a report detailing all of the critical dimensions of the block design.