What Does Calibrating a Spectrophotometer Do?

Spectrophotometers are powerful solutions for objectively and scientifically quantifying color data in products. These devices capture measurements for comparison against a known scale or index to ensure goods' color falls within acceptable tolerances, supporting higher quality. Calibration is a crucial factor in ensuring the equipment delivers — and continues to provide — precise, accurate color measurements.

What Is Spectrophotometer Calibration?

Calibration of a spectrophotometer is a process for adjusting the device's sensitivity to certain wavelengths of light. This precise adjustment helps verify that the unit is measuring wavelengths as intended and quantifying color correctly. It substantially differs from standardization, a process that end users perform in their facilities.

How to Calibrate a Spectrophotometer

Firstly, calibration can only be done by certified HunterLab service technicians. Calibration requires specialized software and stable tiles with known target values. To certify calibration, the device's readings must fall within the allowable tolerances for a specific target value. This quality-control step is part of the production process, and spectrophotometers are sent to customers with certified calibration.

After this initial verification, trained professionals check the spectrophotometer's calibration periodically, often while performing other preventive maintenance. The industry you operate in primarily determines how frequently verification occurs. For example, it's common in the pharmaceutical industry to obtain a certification of calibration every six months. HunterLab generally recommends a certification at least once every 15 months.

Devices that deliver readings within acceptable tolerances receive a new certification of calibration. The manufacturer can recalibrate the spectrophotometer if necessary, though that rarely happens.

The Why Behind Spectrophotometer Calibration Certification

Obtaining certification of calibration is an essential element of effective quality control since it upholds confidence that you're getting precise, accurate measurements. It also helps ensure data consistency and reliability across different manufacturing facilities or production lines.

Additionally, many modern manufacturers operate under quality standards that mandate calibration certifications. For example, ISO 9001 certification requires verification of all laboratory measuring instruments annually.

Partner With HunterLab for All Your Spectrophotometric Needs

HunterLab is the industry pioneer in color-measurement solutions, with over 70 years of experience and expertise. Our full-featured spectrophotometers are the first choice for unparalleled accuracy, reliability, and durability. We proudly offer certification of calibration services on our complete equipment selection.

Connect with us online to discuss your needs, get a quote, or request device support.