What are dry block calibrators?
Dry block calibrators are versatile instruments used to heat or cool metal blocks to various temperatures. It is used as a source of temperature for dial thermometers, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors and are widely used in manufacturing industries. Dry block calibrators are stable, accurate, portable and resourceful.
Since dry block calibrators are multifunctional and widely used, it is important to remember important points to choose the right dry block calibrator.
What to remember while choosing a dry-block calibrator?
The temperature range
Dry-block temperature calibrators can sense a range of temperatures. It is important to identify the temperature needed for calibration. It is advised to choose dry-block calibrators that are beyond the measurement range by ±10 °C.
Dry block calibrators range from low, medium to high heat. Low temperature calibrators are suitable for freezers and freeze dryers that have a temperature from –95 to -50 ºC. Medium range dry-block calibrators are used for steamers and sterilizers. High temperature calibrators are suitable for automation and advanced instruments of food processing.
Size and type of the temperature sensors
Dry block calibrators consist of pre-drilled holes of various diameters in which the test device is connected in order to heat or cool down. During calibration, the device is connected to the calibrator through the holes, hence it is crucial to keep in mind the connecting facilities while choosing the dry-block calibrator.
Dry-block calibrators work excellently with dial thermometers, thermocouples and Resistance Temperature Detectors (RTD’s). Long, straight and suitable transmitters can fit perfectly in most dry-block calibrators. Hence ensure the size of the transmitters are suitable to connect.
- Portability
Dry Block calibrators are versatile instruments and used in many areas of manufacturing. While choosing a dry-block calibrator it is important to take into the account, portabilty of the instrument as it comes in various sizes. The size and weight play pivotal roles as well. Ensure to choose a compatible size which is easy to carry according to the use of the calibrator.
Sensor Immersion
Sensor immersion is important to choose the right dry-block calibrator and if not taken seriously can lead to errors in calculations. Immersing a smaller sensor can affect the calculations by 10 degrees hence it is important to choose the right dry-block calibrator. To get accurate calculations, choose the near perfect calibrator and rely on comparison calculations for a final result. Use various diameters and sizes in order to compare.
To calibrate many sensors, get a versatile block calibrator that allows you to insert more than two probes simaltaneously.
Dry-block calibrators or Temperature Baths?
While dry block calibrators and temperature baths are used for the same purposes, it is important to compare and analyze both instruments to choose the most suitable.
Dry-block Calibrators – Dry-block calibrators are usually connected to the temperature sensor that is calibrated and consists of holes of various diameters for testing the temperature. It provides stable temperature, is portable and adjustable. The temperature is displayed in the instrument hence a reference of the thermometer can be eliminated. Dry-block calibrators are stable, can calibrate more than one sensor at a time and are compact.
Temperature Baths – Temperature Bath is a sensor that requires stirred fluid to test various temperature points. A thermal liquid like water, oil or ethanol is used to provide thermal contact.
Temperature baths are excellent sources of thermal stability, uniformity and contact. It offers a wide volume hence suitable for sensors of a variety of sizes. Portable temperature baths come with displays while large size baths require thermometers for accurate calcualtions. It comes in various sizes like micro baths, portable baths, deep-well compact and standard size.
