Expert Machine Calibration Services

Machine calibration verifies and adjusts the accuracy of CNC machines and measurement equipment to ensure they perform within specified tolerances. It's critical because even minor deviations can affect part quality, increase scrap rates, and cause unexpected production downtime. Regular calibration identifies wear, misalignment, and hidden damage before they impact your production.

Calibration frequency depends on machine usage, precision requirements, and operating environment. High-precision operations typically calibrate quarterly or semi-annually, while general manufacturing may calibrate annually. New machines should be calibrated immediately after installation to verify warranty specifications, and any machine showing accuracy problems should be tested promptly.

NIST traceability means measurements are linked to national standards maintained by the National Institute of Standards and Technology through an unbroken chain of calibrations. This provides documented proof that your measurements are accurate and defensible, which is essential for quality certifications, customer audits, and contractual requirements in precision manufacturing.

Ballbar testing provides a quick overall health check by measuring circular motion and identifying issues like backlash, servo problems, and squareness errors. Laser interferometry delivers highly precise linear measurements of positioning accuracy, repeatability, and straightness for individual axes. Both serve different purposes and are often used together for comprehensive machine evaluation.

Calibration primarily identifies accuracy problems by measuring actual machine performance against specifications. The data reveals specific issues like positioning errors, backlash, or misalignment that need correction. Machine repairs or adjustments are then made based on calibration findings, followed by verification testing to confirm the corrections resolved the problems.

Calibration duration varies by machine size, complexity, and test type. Ballbar testing typically takes 1-3 hours, while comprehensive laser interferometry on multi-axis machines may require 4-8 hours. Surface plate verification and rotary axis testing depend on size and number of measurement points. We work to minimize production disruption and can often schedule during off-shifts.

Yes, while we're based in Portland OR and SW Washington with faster local response times, Sarkinen Calibrating also provides calibration services to customers outside our primary service area. Our equipment is portable and we can travel to your facility for on-site calibration work throughout the broader Pacific Northwest region.

Every calibration service includes comprehensive documentation with detailed measurement data, comparison to specifications, identified issues, and NIST-traceable certification. Reports clearly show machine performance across all tested parameters, making them ideal for quality audits, warranty claims, and maintenance records. Data is presented in formats that are easy to interpret and actionable for your team.