You might want to replace your pressure controller if:
- It's obsolete and the manufacturer doesn't support it anymore.
- It's broken or not working and you can't repair it, or it costs too much to repair.
- The advanced capabilities of a new controller provides value to your business.
Before you set out to shop for a new pressure calibrator, here are some things you should consider.
Workload coverage
Look at the workload your old instrument is calibrating. Has your workload grown over the years or stayed the same? Could you expand your business by expanding the pressure measurement range covered by a new calibrator? If so, that might help you justify the cost of a new instrument.
Measurement performance
Review the specifications of your old calibrator and compare them carefully to the specifications of any new potential purchase. Pay particular attention to the accuracy specification as it relates to measurement stability over time.
You’ll also want to think about how much accuracy is enough as compared to the cost of different solutions. If “just enough” accuracy is good for some workload but you need “the best” for other items, you may want to consider a modular solution that offers the flexibility to choose different accuracy levels and measurement ranges.
Control performance
How much control precision do you need? The active range aspect of the specification is important. You’ll want to know how long it takes to reach setpoint and how stable the pressure control will be over time.
Maintainability/serviceability
Also known as cost of ownership, you need to understand how easy your new purchase will be to keep up and running. This is where a controller which a modular design can be a real time and money saver – if (and this is a big if) it’s a true modular design where each module is independent and can be swapped out for regular calibration or repair.
Expandability
Your calibration needs change over time. Can your calibrator grow with them? If so, can you upgrade it yourself or do you need to send it back to the factory? And is the manufacturer one that you trust to be in business should your needs change some years from now?
For more information
Fluke Calibration has developed a Resource Center with helpful information about replacing certain popular, older pressure calibrators. Visit it here:
Replacing a Pressure Controller Resource Center