As with all electronic equipment, transmitters can lose accuracy over time leading to incorrect readings that can throw off procedures down the line resulting in waste or poor quality. Calibrating equipment like pressure transmitters brings the measurement readings back in line with standards using a known value to align with.
In this article you’ll learn the benefits of conducting pressure transmitter calibration at the bench vs the field, get an overview of the equipment needed to perform pressure transmitter calibration, and get the basic step-by-step procedures for how to calibrate a pressure transmitter.
Field calibration is often done to provide assurance of performance, but often does not provide adjustment to nominal “true” value. Bench calibration allows technicians to work as accurately as possible, effectively, and without degradation of performance associated with portable field equipment. Bench calibration can ensure that all components are in good working order prior to installation. Bench calibration of a pressure transmitter provides a stable, ambient environment for calibration, an opportunity to use the most accurate equipment, and protection from factory conditions during the commissioning, testing, and calibration of pressure transmitters. It also allows technicians time and a clean environment to evaluate the transmitter when component failure is suspected.
Here are the basic steps for how to calibrate a pressure transmitter using the P3130:
Connect the transmitter test hose from the calibrator to the transmitter.
Connect the mA measurement jacks of the calibrator to the transmitter.
Set the pressure/vacuum selection knob to the necessary function.
Close the vent knob and supply metering valve.
Apply pressure or vacuum from the pump by holding down the pump button and release when the necessary pressure is reached.
Correct the pressure with the fine pressure adjustment.
Read the reference pressure and the current output of the transmitter from the display.
Repeat for all test points. If the measured mA signal at the test points is found within tolerance the test is complete. If not, adjustment is required.