Definition of Load Link Calibration
Load link calibration refers to testing and adjusting a load link’s measuring capacity and accuracy to ensure reliable and accurate load readings. Load links are devices used to measure the weight of a load, and calibration is necessary to maintain their accuracy over time.
During calibration, the load link is compared against a known standard to check its accuracy and adjusted if necessary to ensure it meets the required standards. Load link calibration is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of operations that rely on load measurements, such as in the construction, manufacturing, and transportation industries.
What’s the Difference Between Load Link & Load Cell Calibration?
Technically nothing! However, a Load Link is a specialist type of load cell that is only used for determining the weight of a suspended load.
Both Load Links and Load Cells use strain gauges to measure the force applied to the structure of the Load Link or Load Cell, the signal mv/v is read by the indicator and converted to engineering units of measurement such as Tonnes, Kilograms or Kilonewtons.
Load Links are specially designed to work with industry standard shackles making them easy and most importantly safe to use during lifting operations.
In terms of calibration, the procedure is very similar however different attachments are used on our test rig.
In summary, Load Links are a specialist type of load cell that are used only for determining the weight of a suspended load. .
Steps To Calibrating a Load Link
The steps to calibrating a load link are as follows:
- Inspection: Inspect the load link for any visible signs of damage or wear and tear that may affect its performance. Replace any damaged components as necessary.
- Preparation: Prepare the load link for calibration by ensuring it is clean and free of any debris or contaminants that may interfere with the calibration process.
- Load Application: Apply a known load to the link by using a specialist force calibration rig. .
- Adjustment: If required we adjust the load link to match the output of the reference instrument. This may involve adjusting the load link’s internal components or the digital settings.
- Re-measurement: The calibration is run again in full and the after adjustment readings are recorded.
- Calibration Certificate: Issue a calibration certificate to document the calibration process and results, including the load link’s accuracy, repeatability, and traceability to national or international standards.
By following these steps, load link calibration can ensure the accuracy and reliability of load measurements, which is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency in various industries.
What Causes a Load Link to Fail its Calibration?
Load links can fail their calibration test due to various factors, including:
- Wear and tear: Load links can experience wear and tear over time, affecting their accuracy and reliability. This can result in inaccurate load readings or failure to meet calibration standards.
- Damage: Load links can be damaged due to physical impacts, mishandling, or exposure to extreme conditions. This can cause components to shift or break, affecting the load link’s accuracy or causing failure.
- Overloading: Load links have a maximum weight capacity, and exceeding this capacity can cause damage or affect their accuracy. Overloading can occur due to operator error, incorrect installation, or an unexpected increase in the load.
- Environmental factors: Load links can be affected by temperature, humidity, and other factors. Exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, or corrosive substances can damage the load link’s components, affecting its accuracy or causing failure.
- Improper use or maintenance: Load links must be used and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure accurate readings and reliable performance. Failure to follow proper procedures can affect the load link’s accuracy and cause it to fail its calibration test.
It is important to regularly calibrate load links to ensure that they are providing accurate and reliable load measurements. In cases where a load link fails its calibration test, it may need to be repaired or replaced to ensure that it meets the necessary accuracy standards.
Top Ten Most Common Links AML Calibrate
AML Instruments calibrates a wide range of load links from various manufacturers as a professional calibration and supplier of testing instruments. The top ten most common load links that AML Instruments calibrate include Crosby, Straightpoint, Dillon, CAS, Tractel, Chatillon, PCE Instruments, Tecsis, MSI, and Sartorius. These load links are widely used in the construction, manufacturing, transportation, and aerospace industries.
AML Instruments’ calibration process for these load links involves a thorough inspection, preparation, load application, measurement, adjustment, and re-measurement to ensure that the load links provide accurate and reliable load readings. With a 3 to 5-day turnaround time and the ability to integrate with a company’s calibration schedule, AML Instruments’ load link calibration service can help businesses maximize their safety and accuracy while minimizing downtime.
By regularly calibrating their load links, businesses can avoid potential safety hazards, reduce the risk of equipment failure, and ensure that their operations run smoothly.
What If The Load Link Fails its Calibration Test?
If a load link fails its calibration test, it may be possible to adjust, fix or repair it to undergo another calibration test. The specific steps required to address the issue will depend on the nature and severity of the problem. In some cases, adjustments or repairs can be made on-site, while in other cases, the load link may need to be sent to a specialized repair facility.
The repair or adjustment process may involve replacing damaged components, repositioning or adjusting the internal strain gauges, or re-calibrating the load link’s electronic components. Once the necessary repairs or adjustments have been made, the load link must undergo another calibration test to ensure that it provides accurate and reliable load readings.
It is important to note that not all load links can be repaired or adjusted; in some cases, a replacement may be necessary. Regular calibration and maintenance can help minimise the risk of load link failure and ensure that it provides accurate and reliable load measurements.
AML Instruments
AML Instruments is more than just a load link calibration company; it is a full-spectrum company that covers the supply of testing equipment and the calibration of testing instruments. In addition to load link calibration, AML Instruments offers a wide range of calibration and testing services for various types of instruments, including scales and balances, torque wrenches, dimensional measuring tools, force gauges, temperature sensors, pressure gauges, electrical testing equipment, viscometers, optical properties testing equipment, data loggers, and paper and packages testing equipment.
