FAQ on Temperature Sensor Calibration

What is temperature sensor calibration?

Calibration is the process by which the measurement of a temperature sensor (thermocouple or PT100) is compared with a reference standard, to determine the measurement error and verify that the sensor works within the specified tolerances.

Calibration does not adjust the sensor; it verifies and documents its behavior.

What is the purpose of calibrating a thermocouple or a PT100?

Calibration is used for:

Ensure the reliability of the measurement
Meet quality and audit requirements
Detect sensor deviations or degradation
Ensure the metrological traceability of the process

It is especially important in critical industrial processes.

What is calibration by standard?

Calibration by standard is a calibration performed by comparing the sensor with a traceable reference standard, usually an internal laboratory standard.

The result is a calibration certificate that includes:

Measurement points
Errors detected
Test conditions
Traceability of the pattern used

This type of calibration is valid for most industrial applications.

What is ENAC calibration?

ENAC calibration is a calibration performed by a laboratory accredited by ENAC (National Accreditation Entity), following officially recognized procedures and scopes.

The ENAC certificate has legal validity and official recognition in regulated audits.

What is the difference between ENAC calibration and calibration by standard?

The main difference lies in the level of accreditation, not in the method of measurement:

Calibration by standard
Traceable to reference patterns
Suitable for internal control and industrial processes
More flexible and agile
ENAC Calibration
Produced under official accreditation
Required in regulated sectors or specific regulations
Increased paperwork burden and cost

Both can offer technically equivalent results, but with different formal recognition.

When is ENAC calibration mandatory?

ENAC calibration is mandatory when:

It is required by specific regulations.
It is requested by an end customer or auditor.
The process is regulated (pharmaceutical, legal, contractual)
Official recognition of the certificate is required.

In many industrial processes it is not mandatory, although it is often confused with it.

Which sensors can be calibrated?

They can be calibrated:

Thermocouples (K, J, T, N, S, R, etc.)
PT100 and PT1000 probes
Complete sensor cable sets

Calibration can be performed at one or more temperature points, as needed.

Is calibration done before or after installation?

It can be done:

Before installation → initial validation
During maintenance → periodic verification
After a repair → confirmation of operation

The frequency depends on the process and the level of criticality.

What information does a calibration certificate include?

A calibration certificate typically includes:

Sensor identification
Calibration date
Tested temperature points
Measurement error at each point
Pattern used and its traceability
Test conditions

In ENAC calibration, the format and content are standardized.

What type of calibration does Jemar Thermometry offer?

Jemar Termometría has its own laboratory and offers ENAC traceable calibration for thermocouples and PT100 probes, adapted to the real needs of the industrial process.

For cases requiring ENAC calibration, we have been working for years with trusted accredited laboratories, with whom we maintain ongoing collaboration, guaranteeing metrological traceability and the technical consistency of the certificates issued.

Does calibration correct the sensor?

No. Calibration does not adjust or modify the sensor; it measures and documents its behavior. If the error exceeds acceptable limits, sensor replacement or repair is recommended.

In which sectors is calibration especially important?

Calibration is key in:

Iron and steel industry and metallurgy
Energy
Chemical industry
Feeding
Continuous thermal processes
Quality control and auditing

The more critical the process, the greater the importance of proper calibration.

For a more detailed explanation of when to apply ENAC calibration or calibration by standard, you can consult our blog article on temperature sensor calibration.