Nabl 122 PDF

NABL 122
NABL
NATIONAL ACCREDITATION
BOARD FOR TESTING AND
CALIBRATION LABORATORIES
SPECIFIC CRITERIA
for
CALIBRATION
LABORATORIES IN
MECHANICAL DISCIPLINE
ISSUE NO : 04
ISSUE DATE: 28.03.2008
AMENDMENT NO : 02
AMENDMENT DATE: 27.06.2012
AMENDMENT SHEET
Sl
Page
No.
Clause
No.
Date of
Amendment
1.4
01.09.2008
5, 18
1,
Gen.
remarks
27.06.2012
Amendment made
Reasons
For pressure
measurement, the lab
may use pascal and
include in their calibration
certificates, a conversion
equation to SI unit (pascal
vs bar).
BMC changed to CMC
System
Improvement for
comment arising
from APLAC
Revaluation
Signature
QO
Signature
Director
Adoption of
ILAC Policy
10
National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Doc. No: NABL 122
Issue No: 04
Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

Issue Date: 28.03.2008
Amend No: 02
Amend Date: 27.06.2012
Page No: 1 / 34
PREFACE
This document clarifies NABLs stand on the accuracy and measurement capability levels.
NABL intends to uphold its policy of granting accreditation to laboratories as per their
requirements of accuracy and measurement capability.
These criteria are applicable to laboratories, which perform repetitive calibrations in various
parameters and desire accreditation from NABL.
These criteria provide guidelines for use by laboratories and those who are associated with the
programme of accreditation of calibration laboratories e.g. experts, assessors, officials engaged
with day-to-day activities of accreditation. These criteria cover all areas/ fields of calibration.
This document provides the laboratories with necessary information on the requirements for
assessment/ surveillance and to assist them in carrying out internal audit of their system.
The information in this document has been compiled in three parts.
PART I
General Guidelines for Accreditation of Calibration Laboratories
This part contains relevant information on general requirements of a laboratory engaged in
Calibration in the field of Mechanical Measurements. The laboratory seeking accreditation must
comply with the requirements of ISO/ IEC 17025: 2005 and this document.
PART II
Specific Criteria for Accreditation of Calibration Laboratories
This part provides information on special requirements of the laboratories, which are specific to
the parameters covered in the respective fields
PART III
Guidelines Regarding Accuracy of Standards & Measurement Uncertainty in Calibration
This part contains guidelines of the Specified accuracies of measurement standard and
uncertainties of measurement generally achieved in laboratories using equipment and
instruments of different classes of uncertainties for different parameters under Mechanical
measurements.

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CONTENTS
Sl.
Title
Page No.
Amendment Sheet
Preface
Contents
1.
Scope
2.
Criteria for Accreditation
3.
Organisation
4.
Management System
5.
Personnel
6.
Accommodation and Environmental Conditions
7.
Equipment
10
8.
Range, Uncertainty of Measurement and Traceability
11
9.
Calibration Certificate/ Report
11
10.
Proficiency Testing Programme
12
PART I
PART II
1.
Scope
13
2.
Range and Uncertainty of Measurement
14
3.
Environmental Conditions
14
4.
Monitoring of Environmental Conditions
14
5.
Shock and Vibration
14
6.
Special Requirements of Laboratory
15
7.
Repair and Maintenance
17
8.
Storage and Packaging
17
9.
Safety Precautions
17

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Sl.
Table
Page No.
PART III
General Remarks and Environmental Conditions
18
1.
Length and Angle Measurement
19
2.
Mass, Volume and Density Measurement
20
3.
Force Measurement
28
4.
Pressure Measurement
29
5.
Vacuum Measurement
30
6.
Ultrasonics Measurement
31
7.
Acoustical Measurement
32

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PART I
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ACCREDITATION OF

CALIBRATION LABORATORIES
1.0
SCOPE
1.1
Calibration laboratories are accredited by NABL after it is demonstrated that a

laboratory complies with the requirements of international standard ISO/IEC 17025:
2005. In view of generic nature of the standard the requirements stated there in, need
to be further redefined in specific fields of calibration. This specific criteria lays down
those specific requirements in the field of mechanical calibration. This part of the
document thus amplifies the generic requirements for mechanical calibration and
supplement the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025:2005. Laboratories seeking NABL
accreditation in the field of mechanical calibration must also comply with the
requirements stated in this part.
1.2
Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC) is one the parameters that is used by
NABL to define the scope of an accredited calibration laboratory, the others being
parameter/quantity measured, standard/master used, calibration method used and
measurement range. The CMC is expressed as the smallest uncertainty that a
laboratory can achieve when calibrating the best existing device. It is an expanded
uncertainty estimated at a confidence level of approximately 95% corresponding to a
coverage factor k=2.
Note: Refer NABL 143 for NABL policy on Calibration and Measurement Capability (CMC) and
uncertainty in calibration
The laboratorys ability to achieve their claimed CMC shall be evaluated based on its
performance during the on-site assessment and by review of proficiency testing results,
wherein the laboratory has participated.
1.3
The definition of CMC implies that within its accreditation a laboratory is not permitted
to report a smaller uncertainty of measurement than the CMC endorsed on its scope of
accreditation. This means that the laboratory shall be required to state a uncertainty not
better than that corresponding to the CMC whenever it is established that the actual
calibration process adds significantly to the uncertainty of measurement. The CMC is
applicable only to the results for which the laboratory claims its status as accredited
laboratory. It is therefore a realistic means for customers to select and compare
accredited laboratories capabilities.
1.4
All the parameters for which accreditation is sought must be expressed in S.I. Units,
wherever applicable. However, in exceptional case like pressure measurement, the
laboratory may use pascal. In such a case, the laboratory shall include in their
calibration certificates, a conversion equation to SI unit (pascal vs bar).

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2.0
CRITERIA FOR ACCREDITATION

Accreditation of a calibration laboratory will require assessment in respect of
organization,
staff,
equipment
and
traceability
of
its
calibration,
laboratory
accommodation and environmental conditions, safety, handling of calibrated equipment

and equipment under calibration, measurement capability and recording system, etc.,
as per ISO/ IEC 17025: 2005 General Requirements for the Competence of Testing
and Calibration Laboratories. Some explanatory notes of this document are given in
the following clauses.
3.0
ORGANISATION
3.1
The Calibration Laboratory shall be organized in such a way that all staff members are
aware of both the extent and the limitations of their area of responsibility.
This
organization shall specify and document the responsibility and authority of the Head of
the Calibration Laboratory/ Technical Manager/ Quality Manager with direct access to
the top management. All personnel will perform or verify work affecting the quality of
calibrations as per general guidelines and specific criteria laid down for the accredited
parameters. The calibration laboratory shall be organized in such a way so as to
ensure the integrity and training of its staff and operations for ensuring unbiased
Calibration.
3.2
A Deputy Head/ Technical Manager may also be nominated to take over the
responsibility in the absence of the Laboratory Head. In case there is no Deputy-incharge, the authorities concerned may appoint a suitable person to look after the
laboratory, under intimation to NABL. The laboratory shall also clearly define authorized
signatory for the calibration certificates/ reports issued by the laboratory.

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4.0
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
4.1
The calibration laboratory shall have a Quality Manual which shall be maintained up-todate and available for scrutiny, in compliance with ISO/ IEC 17025: 2005 and NABL
requirements, with emphasis on following information:
a)
A quality policy statement, including objectives and commitments by the top

management.
b)
A statement on the organization of the calibration laboratory.
c)
Names, qualifications and experience of the persons responsible for managerial,

and scientific/ technical activities.
d)
A clearly defined charter of responsibility showing the relationship between

management and support services.
e)
Scope and operation together with information on measurement capability and

traceability of calibration of all measuring instruments to national measurement
standards.
f)
The reference of document number on detailed calibration procedures adopted

in the laboratory, which should be compiled in the form of a manual for the use of
calibration staff.
g)
The reference list of all national/ international standards being referred to or used
in the performance of calibration work (copies of such standard specifications
should be available in the laboratory for the use of calibration staff.)
h)
All amendments made in any of the documents must be dated and listed in the
Quality Manual and brought to the notice of NABL.
4.2
The calibration facilities established in accordance with the general guidelines and
specific criteria shall be audited periodically and reviewed by or on behalf of the
management to ensure the continued effectiveness of the system.

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4.3
The calibration laboratory shall clearly specify, document and make known to the
customers, the administrative and other procedures to be followed for getting
calibration done from the laboratory.
The procedure for redressal of technical
complaints should also be clearly specified and documented.

4.4
The laboratory shall have authorized signatories for approving and issuing calibration
certificates for each calibration parameter as mentioned in the scope of accreditation.
Any officer competent to evaluate calibration results critically and occupying a position
involving responsibility for the adequacy of calibration results is eligible for approval by
NABL as an authorized signatory of endorsed calibration documents. Consequently
approved
authorized
signatories
must
demonstrate
understanding
of
these
requirements.
5.0
PERSONNEL
5.1
The calibration laboratory shall have adequate number of qualified competent and
trained personnel as follows:
Laboratory personnel performing calibration: Diploma in Engineering (relevant branch)
or Science graduate (with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics) with 1 year of relevant
experience or ITI with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
Authorized Signatory: Bachelor of Engineering/Post Graduate in Science (relevant
branch) with 1 year of relevant experience or Diploma in Engineering (relevant branch)
with minimum 3 years of relevant experience.
5.2
Arrangements for improvement of qualifications and periodic refresher courses and

practical training should also exist for the staff so as to keep them in touch with latest
developments in the relevant fields.
5.3
The Head of the calibration laboratory shall be at least a Post Graduate in Physical
Science or Graduate in Mechanical/ Instrumentation Engineering or equivalent with
specialised knowledge and adequate experience in precision Mechanical and other
relevant parameter measurements. In exceptional cases, a graduate in physics or
diploma holder in Mechanical Engineering with long experience could be accepted.

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6.0
ACCOMMODATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
6.1
Vibrations
The calibration area shall be adequately free from vibrations generated by central airconditioning plants, vehicular traffic and other sources to ensure consistent and uniform
operational conditions. The laboratory shall take all special/ protective precautions like
mounting of sensitive apparatus on vibration free tables and pillars etc., isolated from
the floor, if necessary.
6.2
Acoustic Noise
Acoustic noise level in the laboratory shall be maintained to facilitate proper
performance of calibration work. A threshold noise level of 60 dBA is recommended
unless otherwise stated.
6.3
Illumination
The calibration area shall have adequate level of illumination. Where permissible,
fluorescent lighting is preferred to avoid localized heating and temperature drift. The
recommended level of illumination is 450-700 lux on the working table with glare index
of 19 for the laboratory.
6.4
Environmental Conditions and Monitoring

The environmental conditions for the activity of the laboratory shall be such as not to
adversely affect the required accuracy of measurement. Facilities should be provided
whenever necessary for recording temperature, pressure and humidity values
prevailing during calibration. The atmospheric conditions maintained in the laboratory
during calibration should be reported in the calibration report/ certificate.
6.5
Entry to the Calibration Area

As possible, only the staff engaged in the calibration activity shall be permitted entry
inside the calibration area.

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7.0
EQUIPMENT
Each calibration laboratory should have measurement standards or equipment of
required accuracy in respect of each parameter covered by it in order to be able to
realize and to substantiate the corresponding measurement capability claimed.
Stability of the standards, accuracy of the values realized through them and
repeatability, should be regularly monitored.
Any bias resulting from ageing of standards should be precisely determined.
Instructions for operating each standard and equipment/ instrument should be readily
available for use by the laboratory staff members.
7.2
The standards/ measuring equipment of the laboratory should be calibrated at regular

intervals, with higher accuracy standards. The calibration certificates, performance
history sheets in respect of the reference secondary/ working standards and measuring
equipment should be held safely by the laboratory.
7.3
7.4
Proper record shall be maintained for each standard and equipment with the following
information:
a)
Name of the equipment
b)
Manufacturers name and address
c)
Type, range, identification and serial number
d)
Date of procurement and commissioning
e)
Details of Calibration
f)
Details of maintenance and repairs
g)
Performance history with dates
h)
Availability of service manual
Details of periodic calibration schedule of new and old standards and measuring
equipment should be worked out in consultation with higher accuracy laboratory and
this schedule should be observed.
7.5
Details of re-calibration of used, serviced and repaired equipment should also be

available and proper precautions shall be observed to identify equipment, which are not
in service.

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7.6
Any alterations in the observations/ data shall be signed by the calibration staff and
duly authenticated. Instructions to this effect should be printed on data sheet used for
writing observations/ data in the laboratory.
8.0
RANGE, UNCERTAINTY OF MEASUREMENT AND TRACEABILITY
8.1
The level of uncertainty of measurement of the standards to be maintained by a

laboratory and the measurement capabilities to be generated by it in respect of
various parameters shall be as demonstrated during assessment.
8.2
All the Standard Equipment of the Laboratory shall be calibrated periodically against
Calibration Standards of a laboratory accredited by NABL/ equivalent MRA partners
having superior measurement capability or NPL/ other international NMIs.
8.3
In the event when the levels of uncertainty of measurement and measurement

capability of an accredited laboratory are revised, the laboratory shall be required to
intimate NABL secretariat and undergo surveillance / reassessment as applicable.
9.0
CALIBRATION CERTIFICATE/ REPORT
9.1
The result of calibration carried out by the calibration laboratory, shall be presented in a
comprehensive manner, using a standard format which shall unambiguously and
objectively present the measurement results and all relevant information in order to
facilitate easy comprehension and usage.

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9.2
The calibration report/ certificate shall include the following additional information:
a)
Date of receipt of the item and date of completion of the calibration work
b)
Environmental conditions maintained during the measurements
c)
Signature and title of authorized person (authorized signatory) accepting

responsibility for the report and date of issue
d)
A statement of the accreditation measurement capability relevant to the job

under calibration
e)
A symbol of NABL or statement or both clarifying the status of accreditation of

the laboratory.
f)
The Uncertainty of measurement
g)
An evidence that the measurements are traceable to National/ International

Standards through unbroken chain of Accredited Laboratories.
9.3
The calibration report/ certificate shall not contain any recommendation on the
calibration interval except where this has been agreed with the client. This requirement
may be superseded by legal regulations.
10.0
PROFICIENCY TESTING PROGRAMME
10.1
To give further assurance to the accuracy or Uncertainty of measurements, a

laboratory will be required to participate, from time to time, in Proficiency Testing
Programmes. The laboratory shall remain prepared to participate in the Proficiency
Testing Programme through inter-laboratory, inter-comparison schemes wherever it is
technically feasible. In case any abnormalities, in terms of En number are detected
through these inter-comparisons, appropriate corrective action will be taken, the
standards/ equipment shall be replaced/ repaired and re-calibrated with a higher
accuracy standard. Reports on such inter-comparisons should be documented with
reference. The Proficiency Testing practice should be included in the Quality Manual.

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PART II
SPECIFIC CRITERIA FOR ACCREDITATION

OF CALIBRATION LABORATORIES
IN THE FIELD OF MECHANICAL MEASUREMENTS
1.0
SCOPE
1.1
An accredited laboratory shall be classified as calibration laboratory for the accredited

parameters in the field of Mechanical Measurements in accordance with its
Measurement Capability.
1.2
A calibration laboratory seeking accreditation to offer calibration services in the field of

Mechanical Measurements will generally carry out calibration in the following areas:
1.3
a)
Length
b)
Angle
c)
Mass
d)
Force
e)
Pressure
f)
Vacuum
g)
Acoustics
h)
Ultrasonics
The accredited calibration laboratory shall mainly be connected with the measurement
of one or more of the following parameters.
1
Length and Angle
Mass, Volume & Density
Force [concerned with calibration of (a) Proving devices and Force measuring
devices (b) Verification of testing machines]
Pressure and Differential Pressure
Vacuum and Altitude (by vacuum measurements)
Ultrasonic intensity, Ultrasonic pressure, Ultrasonic total power, Vibrational

amplitude, Ultrasonic velocity & Attenuation.
Acoustic
Pressure,
Acoustic
Power,
Vibration
Amplitude/
acceleration,
Frequency and Attenuation. Other parameters could be considered on request.

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2.0
RANGE AND UNCERTAINTY OF MEASUREMENT
2.1
A calibration laboratory will be accredited according to its demonstrated Measurement

Capability expressed in terms of uncertainty.
3.0
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
3.1
The laboratory shall specify limits on the environmental conditions to be achieved in the
laboratory. The condition shall appropriate to the level of accuracy required for the
calibration undertaken by the laboratory.
In force measurement, for proving devices, additional requirements include the
following:
Temperature control will not be necessary for calibration of force measuring devices
provided the rate of change of temperature of 1C/ hour is not exceeded and the
calibration room is free from droughts.
In case of verifications of testing machines, it must be ascertained that the result of
verification is not affected by direct sunlight falling on the force proving devices, local
heating droughts or other adverse conditions.
4.0
MONITORING OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
4.1
Temperature and humidity conditions inside the calibration laboratory shall be regularly
monitored and recorded. Calibrations shall be stopped when the environmental
conditions fall outside the specified limits.
5.0
SHOCK AND VIBRATION
5.1
The laboratory shall take all special/ protective precautions, like mounting of sensitive
apparatus on vibration free tables and pillars etc., isolated from the floor if necessary.

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6.0
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS OF LABORATORY
6.1
The calibration laboratory shall make arrangements for regulated and uninterrupted
power supply. The recommended regulation level is 1% or better, on the calibration
bench.
6.2
Relevant IS specifications (IS: 1248, IS: 4722) regarding total harmonic content and
variation in supply frequency should be followed. Voltage stabilizers of low harmonic
content should be used to comply with requirement.
6.3
Adequate arrangements shall be made by the laboratory so as to ensure temperature

gradient not exceeding 1.5C per hour inside the laboratory in case of power failure.
6.4
The laboratory shall use if necessary, isolation transformers and filters etc. to ensure
minimisation of ground current and effects of mains hum interference.
6.5
The power supply to the calibration laboratory shall be directly obtained from the substation as far as possible and shall not be on the same feeder line which is supplying
power to workshops and other production areas which require operation of heavy duty
machines.
6.6
Effective mains earthing shall be provided in accordance with relevant specification

IS: 3043. This shall be periodically checked and stary couplings minimised.
6.7
Special care shall be taken about the location of magnetic field sources like,
transformers, looped wires, ferrous materials etc., in order to minimise magnetic
interference in the measurements.
6.8
Adequate screening of the laboratory against electromagnetic interference shall be

done if necessary. By-pass filters should also be provided to minimise conducted
interference effect on the electronic equipment. Special shielding chambers shall be
provided in the laboratory for measurements, particularly when signal to noise ratio is a
disturbing factor for accurate measurements.

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6.9
The reference standards shall be maintained at temperatures specified for their

maintenance on order to ensure their conformance to the required level of operation
and traceability. The laboratory should have specific facilities required for carrying out
the calibrations of parameters chosen.
6.10
The laboratory shall be sealed against dust and external air pressure. Positive air
pressure shall be maintained inside the laboratory.
6.11
Adequate protective measures, like use of transient suppressors etc. shall be taken by
the laboratory toward off high current spikes and transients emanating from switching
on and off, of the heavy machines, surges in power lines and other such reasons, from
reaching the electronics equipment in general and computer based systems involving
data storage facilities in particular.
Special Requirements for Acoustical measurement
a
For acoustic pressure and power measurements, anechoic or free field condition
is required.
For vibration amplitude/ acceleration measurements, controlled laboratory

conditions with perfect isolation are required.
For general acoustic measurements including attenuation, frequency etc.

anechoic chamber/ controlled lab/ reverberation chamber is required.
It should be ascertained that the magnitude of vibration and ambient noise or

other disturbing noise should be sufficiently low so as not to affect the results of
measurements. Direct sunlight should not fall either on the standards or devices
under test. Devices likely to be affected by moisture should be kept in desiccators
or otherwise humidity-free environment.

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7.0
REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE
7.1
A separate repair and maintenance facility, adequate equipped with repair facilities and
qualified and experienced manpower, shall be available in house or by any other
means effectively accessible to the calibration laboratory. This facility shall also assist
in identifying the preventive maintenance procedures which should be brought to the
attention of the personnel engaged in calibration work for taking necessary precautions.
The repair facility should cover digital and programmable instruments also.
7.2
Every repaired equipment shall invariably be re-calibrated through in house facility or

by higher accuracy laboratory before being used for further calibration work.
8.0
STORAGE AND PACKAGING
8.1
The standards/ measuring instruments/ equipment received by the laboratory for

calibration, shall be safely stored in proper environmental conditions, according to the
instructions given by the supplier.
8.2
The laboratory shall have adequate arrangements for packing of calibrated instruments
and may assist the user, if necessary, about the procedure and precautions to be taken
by the organisation for packing and transportation of the equipment to the calibration
laboratory and back.
9.0
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
9.1
Relevant fire extinguishing equipment for possible fire hazards, should be available in
the corridors or convenient places in the laboratory. Adequate safety measures against
electrical, chemical fire hazards must be available at the work place. Laboratory rooms/
areas where highly inflammable materials are used/ stored should be identified. Access
to the relevant fire equipment should be assured near these rooms/ areas.
9.2
Specification SP.31- 1986, a special publication in the form of a wall chart, giving the
method of treatment in case of electric shock, should be followed. The chart should be
placed near the power supply switchgear and at other prominent places as prescribed
under Indian Electricity Rules 1956.

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PART III
GUIDELINES REGARDING LEVELS OF ACCURACY OF

STANDARDS AND MEASUREMENT UNCERTAINTY IN
CALIBRATION FOR MECHANICAL MEASUREMENTS
GENERAL REMARKS
The following pages may be referred as guidelines and not mandatory recommendations for the
laboratories. The accredited calibration laboratories are no longer required to be categorized
into Echelon/ level I, II, III. Part III of this document is aimed to provide guidance to the
laboratories regarding the precautions they should take with respect to Environmental
conditions as appropriate to respective Calibration and Measurement Capability of the
laboratories. The laboratories, on their own, should decide/ determine to have environmental
conditions in their premises, for the Calibration and measurement capability claimed
corresponding to their scope of accreditation applied for. Further to note that:
1)
The measurement capability is expressed as uncertainty () at a confidence probability

level of 95%
2)
The term Uncertainty in these tables pertains to the corresponding measurement

capability of the laboratory in respect of each parameter.
3)
The values of Accuracy/Uncertainty of measurement shown in the following tables are at

95% CL unless stated otherwise.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Standards atmospheric conditions for calibration in a Mechanical Measurement Laboratory shall
be as follows:
Temperature
Humidity
LEVEL
II
III
II
III
Length
200C 10C
200C 20C
200C 50C
40
to
60%
Other parameters
250C 20C
250C 30C
250C 50C
40
to
60%

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1.
LENGTH AND ANGLE MEASUREMENT

ACCURACY OF STANDARDS
Parameter
Length
(i)
Standard
Range
Level-I
Wavelength/
Optical
__
1 part in 10
Artifact
Standards
>0-100mm
>0-1m
Artfact
0-360
Level-II
9
Level-III
7
1 part in 10
__
0.01m
0.5m
1m
upto 10 m
Upto 1m
Upto 50m
1 sec of arc
5 sec of arc
5 sec-1 min
of arc
Frequency
Standards
(ii)
Angle
Measurement uncertainty
Parameter
Range
Level-I
Level-II
Level-III
Length
100mm
1m
0.1m
5.0m
0.5m
5.0m
2m
5.0m
Angle
0-360
1 sec of arc
5 sec of arc
5sec.- 1 min of arc
Standard Temperature for Calibration (for length and angle standards)

Parameter
Level-I
Level-II
Level-III
Temperature
20C 1C
20C 2C
20C 5C
0.2C
1C
2C
0.02C
0.1C
0.5C
Measurement Chamber
Temperature (Variation from
mean)
Uncertainty in Temperature
Measurement
Remarks:
1) Measurement results are to be given at 20 C after applying correction for thermal

expansion.
2) The measurement capability is expressed as uncertainty () at a confidence probability
level of 95%.

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2.0
MASS, VOLUME AND DENSITY MEASUREMENT
2a)
MASS MEASUREMENT
Accuracy of Standards
Denomination
Level I
(mg)
Level II
mg
Level II
mg
50kg
10
25
25-250
20kg
10
10-100
10kg
5-50
5kg
1.0
2.5
2.5-25
2kg
0.3
1.0
1.0-10
1kg
0.1
0.5
0.5-5
500kg
0.1
0.25
0.25-2.5
200kg
0.03
0.10
0.10-1
100g
0.02
0.05
0.05-0.5
50g
0.01
0.03
0.03-0.3
20g
0.008
0.025
0.025-0.25
10g
0.005
0.020
0.02-0.2
5g
0.005
0.015
0.015-0.015
2g
0.004
0.010
0.01-0.1
1g
0.003
0.010
0.01-0.1
500mg
0.003
0.008
0.008-0.08
200mg
0.002
0.006
0.006-0.06
100mg
0.002
0.005
0.005-0.05
50mg
0.001
0.004
0.004-0.04
20mg
0.001
0.003
0.003-0.03
10mg
0.001
0.002
0.002-0.02
5mg
0.001
0.002
0.002-0.02
2mg
0.001
0.002
0.002-0.02
1mg
0.001
0.002
0.002-0.02
Contd.

Doc. No: NABL 122
Issue No: 04

Issue Date: 28. 03.2008
Amend No: 00
Amend Date: --
Page No: 20 / 34
Measurement Uncertainty
Denomination
Level I
(mg)
Level II
(mg)
Level III
(mg)
50kg-2000kg
25
75
25-750
20kg
10
30
10-100
10kg
15
5-15
5kg
2.5
7.5
2.5-7.5
2kg
1.0
3.0
1.0-3.0
1kg
0.5
1.5
0.5-1.5
500kg
0.25
0.75
0.25-7.5
200kg
0.10
0.30
0.10-3.0
100gm
0.05
0.15
0.05-1.5
50gm
0.03
0.10
0.03-1.0
20gm
0.025
0.08
0.025-0.8
10gm
0.020
0.06
0.020-0.6
5gm
0.015
0.05
0.015-0.5
2g
0.010
0.04
0.010-0.4
1g
0.010
0.03
0.010-0.3
500mg
0.008
0.025
0.008-0.25
200mg
0.006
0.020
0.006-0.020
100mg
0.005
0.015
0.005-0.15
50mg
0.004
0.012
0.004-0.12
20mg
0.003
0.010
0.003-0.10
10mg
0.002
0.008
0.002-0.8
5mg
0.002
0.006
0.002-0.6
2mg
0.002
0.006
0.002-0.6
1 mg
0.002
0.006
0.002-0.6

Doc. No: NABL 122
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Page No: 21 / 34
2b)
VOLUME MEASUREMENT
Accuracy of Standards of Capacity (content type)
Capacity
Uncertainty
Level I
Level II
Level III
(Gravimetric method)
cm3
cm3
10.000
0.5
1.0-5.0
5.000
0.2
0.5-2.0
cm3
2.00
Standards of capacity at
0.1
1.2-1.0
1,000
Level I are based on
0.08
0.1-0.8
500
Standard of mass (accuracy:
0.05
0.05-0.5
200
1x10 ) and stated density
0.04
0.04-0.4
100
of water (accuracy:5x10 )
0.03
0.03-0.3
50
alongwith appropriate
0.02
0.02-0.2
20
balance
0.01
0.01-0.1
0.01
-6
-6
10
Capacity
dm3
Level I
Level II
Gravimetric Transfer
Gravimetric Transfer
(Gravimetric method)
cm3
Level III
cm3
5000dm
--
1500
--
5000
1500-15000
2000dm
--
600
--
2000
600-6000
1000dm
--
300
--
1000
300-3000
500dm
50
150
--
500
50-1500
200dm
20
60
--
200
20-600
100dm
100
30
--
--
--
50
15
--
100
10-300
50dm
Contd.

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25/20dm
10dm
2.5/2.0
--
--
50
5-150
1.0
--
--
10
2.0-3.0
5dm
0.2
--
--
5.0
1.0-8
2dm
0.1
--
0.6
2.0
0.2-6
1dm
0.08
--
0.2
0.8
0.08-8
500dm
0.05
--
0.15
0.5
0.05-1.5
200dm
0.04
--
0.1
0.4
0.04-0.5
100dm
0.03
--
0.1
0.4
0.03-1.0
0.02
--
0.05
0.2
0.02-0.2
0.01 or
1/15 to 1/3
of
prescribed
tolerance
--
0.03 or
1/3 to 1/2 of
prescribed
tolerance
01
0.01-0.1 or
1/5 to 1/2 of
prescribed
tolerance
50dm
Volumetric
measures
3
from 100cm
pipette level

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Issue No: 04

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Page No: 23 / 34
Accuracy of Standards of Capacity (delivery type)

Capacity
Uncertainty
dm3
Level I
cm3
Level II
cm3
Level III
cm3
500
50
150
150-500
200
20
60
60-200
100
10
30
30-100
50
15
15-50
25
2.5
7.5
7.5-25
10
2.5
3.0
3.0-10
Standard based on
Stated density of
water and standards
of mass
1.5
1.5-5
0.6
0.6-6
1/5 to 1/3 of the

prescribed tolerance
1/5 to 1/2 of the

prescribed tolerance
2
1 below and up
to 0.01ml
Capacity
Level I
Gravimetric
method
cm3
Level II
Transfer
method
cm3
Gravimetric
method
cm3
Level III
Transfer
method
cm3
5000dm
1500
5000
1500-15000
2000dm
600
2000
600-6000
1000dm
300
1000
300-3000
500dm
50
150
500
50-1500
200dm
20
60
200
20-600
100dm
100
30
50
15
100
10-300
50dm
Contd.

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Issue No: 04

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Capacity
Level I
Gravimetric
method
cm3
Level II
Transfer
method
cm3
Gravimetric
method
cm3
Level III
Transfer
method
cm3
2.5/2.0
50
5-150
1.0
10
2.0-3.0
0.2
5.0
1.0-8
0.1
0.6
2.0
0.2-6
0.08
0.2
0.8
0.08-8
0.05
0.15
0.5
0.05-1.5
0.04
0.1
0.4
0.4-1.5
0.03
0.1
0.4
0.03-1.0
0.02
0.05
0.2
0.02-0.2
0.01 or 1/5 to
1/3 of the
prescribed
tolerance
0.03 or 1/3 to
1/2 of the
prescribed
tolerance
0.1
0.01-01 or 1/5
to 1/2 of the
prescribed
tolerance

Doc. No: NABL 122
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2c)
DENSITY MEASUREMENT
Accuracy of standards
Standards
Level I
Solid Cyliner of known volume
5x10
Master Hydrometer
Level II
Level III
-6
-5
-5
1x10
1x10
Hydrometers
-4
5-10x10
-4
1x10
2x10
-4
2x10
2x10
M-50-N
5x10
M-100
1x10
S-50
1x10
L-20
5x10
L-50-S
1x10
L50-N
M-50-S
-4
-4
-4
-4
-4
-4
-4
Item
Uncertainty
Level-I
Hydrostatic
Method
Level-II
Comparison
Method
Hydrostatic
Method
-5
1x10
-4
1x10
-5
1x10
-5
1.
Density of
solids of
regular shape
1x10
2.
Density of
liquids
1x10
L-20
5x10
L-50-S
5x10
1x10
L-50-N
2x10
L-50-S
2x10
Level-III
Comparison
Method
-4
-4
-5
1-10x10
-4
1x10
2x10
-4
1-5x10
-4
-4
5-10x10
-4
5-10x10
-4
5x10
-4
5x10
-5
-5
-4
2-5x10
-4
-4
2-5x10
-4
Contd.

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Page No: 26 / 34
-4
1x10
-3
1x10
1x10
-3
M-50-N
5x10
M-100
1x10
S-50
Other Special
purpose hydro
meters like
alcoholometers
1/5 to 1/2 of
the value of
the smallest
graduation
-3
5-10x10
-4
-3
1-2x10
1x10
-3
1-2x10
1/2 of the
value of the
smallest
graduation
1/5 to 1/2 of the

value of the
smallest
graduation
-3
-3

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3.0
FORCE MEASUREMENT
3.1
The accredited calibration laboratory in the field of force shall be concerned with the
following
a)
Calibration of
i) Proving devices
ii) Force measuring devices
b)
3.2
Verification of testing machines
Level I
Level II
Level III
0.002%
(Up to 199kN)
0.025%
(For class o force
proving Devices
0.05%
(For class 1 Force
proving Devices)
Force proving Devices

of Class 0
Class 1
Class 2
0.01%
0.1%
(For class 2 Force
proving Devices)
as per IS: 4169-1988

In case the Testing
Machine is verified with
Dead Weights, the relative
error of the force
generated by these
weights shall be less than
or equal to 0.1%
(Over 100kN and upto 1MN
3.3
Special Environmental Conditions for force measurement

For proving devices, please refer to the guidelines for approval of a laboratory in
mechanical calibration together with the following:Temperature control will not be necessary for calibration of Force measuring devices
provided the rate of change of temperature of 10C/hour is not exceeded and the
calibration room is free from droughts.
In case of verifications of testing machines, it must be ascertained that the result of the
verification is not affected by direct sunlight falling on the force proving devices, local
heating droughts or other adverse conditions.

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4.0
PRESSURE MEASUREMENT
4.1
The accredited calibration laboratory will provide calibration for the following parameters:
a)
i)
Pressure
ii)
Differential Pressure
Uncertainty of Measurements
Range (Pascal)
Level I
Level II
Level III
0.003%
0.05%
0.05% to 1%
0.0004 %
0.07 %
0.07% to 2%
0.0008%
0.1%
0.17% to 5%
0.02%
0.3%
1 to 5%
0.04%
0.5%
1 to 5%
1x10 to 4x10
4x10 to 2x10
2x10 to 3x10
3x10 to 7x10
3x10 to 1x10
b)
Uncertainty
Measurement Uncertainty in Calibration of Differential Pressure at high line

pressure upto 8x106 Pa
Range (Pascal)
Uncertainty
5x10 to 5x10
1x10 to 4x10
5x10 to 5x10
1x10 to 4x10
4.2
Range (Bar)
-4
-2
5x10 to 1x10
-5
-2
-1
8x10 to 15x10
-5
-4
-5
Environmental Conditions
Pressure standards and instrument/gauge under calibration should be placed on
vibration free platform.
Humidity should be maintained between.
45% to 55%
Temperature should be maintained at
23C 1C

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5.0
VACUUM MEASUREMENT
5.1
The accredited Calibration Laboratory will provide calibration for the following
parameters:
5.2
a)
Vacuum
b)
Altitude*
Range (mbar)
Level I
Level II
10 to 10
0.002%
0.01%
0.1% to 1%
1.0
0.02%
0.05%
2%
Level III
-1
-3
0.25%
1.0%
1 to 5%
-4
-5
0.6%
2.0%
2 to 10%
-6
-7
1.0%
5.0%
5 to 10%
-7
-8
3.0%
10.0%
10 to 50%
10 to 10
10 to 10
10 to 10
10 to 10
* Altitude, i.e. Barometric Region for civil aviation and aircraft industries.
5.3
Environmental Condition
Vacuum standards and instrument/gauge under calibration should be placed on vibration
free platform.
Humidity should be maintained between
45 to 50%
Temperature should be maintained at
230C 10C

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Amend No: 00
Amend Date: --
Page No: 30 / 34
6.0
ULTRASONICS MEASUREMENT
6.1
The accredited Calibration Laboratory in the field of ultrasonics will be concerned with
the measurement of the following parameters:
6.2
i)
Ultrasonic pressure
ii)
Ultrasonic total power
iii)
Vibrational amplitude
iv)
Ultrasonic velocity
Ranges and Uncertainty of measurement
Parameter
Range
Frequency
Uncertainty
Level I
Level II
Level III
Ultrasonic Pressure
50 kPa to 5
MPa
0.5 to 10
MHZ
7%
20%
25%
Ultrasonic total Power
0.5 to 20 W
0.5 to 5 MHz
5%
10%
15%
Vibrational amplitude (Air

Borne displacement)
0.3 to 150
nm
0.2 to 15
MHz
1 to 7%
Ultrasonic velocity
0.025%

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Page No: 31 / 34
7.0
ACOUSTICAL MEASUREMENT
7.1.1
The accredited calibration laboratory in the field of acoustical measurements shall be

concerned with the measurement of following parameters:
i)
Acoustic Pressure
ii) Vibration amplitude/acceleration

iii) Acoustic Power
iv) Frequency
v) Attenuation
7.1.2
Special Requirements
a.
For acoustic pressure and acoustic power measurements, anechoic or free field
condition is required.
b.
For
vibration amplitude/acceleration measurements,
controlled laboratory
conditions with perfect isolation are required.

c.
For general acoustical measurements including attenuation, frequency etc.

anechoic chamber/controlled lab/reverberation chamber is required.
d.
e.
The ambient noise level in the various levels should be less than
(Level I)
(Level II)
(Level III)
20 dB(A)
30 dB(A)
50-60 dB(A)
Relative humidity should be maintained between 30% and 50% for all the three
levels.
f.
It should be ascertained that the magnitude of vibration and ambient noise or

other disturbing noise should be sufficiently low so as not to affect the results of
measurements. Direct sunlight should not fall either on the standards or devices
under test. Devices likely to be affected by moisture should be kept in desicators
or otherwise humidity-free environment.

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Amend No: 00
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Page No: 32 / 34
7.2
ACCOUSTIC PRESSURE
Measurement
Range
Frequency
Range
40 to 60 dB
(Reciprocity
Technique)
Uncertainty
250 Hz
Level I
Level II
Level III
0.05 dB
To be worked out later
Measurement
Frequency
Range
Uncertainty
Level I
Level II
Level III
94 dB Microphone Calibrator
1000 Hz
0.2 dB
0.5 dB
0.5 dB
124 dB Piston phone
250 Hz
0.2 dB
0.2 dB
0.5 dB
40-100 dB comparison method
100-5 kHz
0.2 dB
0.5 dB
0-160 dB
7.3
VIBRATION AMPLITUDE/ ACCELERATION
Measurement Range
a)
b)
Frequency Range
Uncertainty
Level I
Level II
Level III
Amplitude 1-10mm
(Cathetometer)
5Hz-80 Hz
0.5%
1.0%
0.001 to 0.1 mm
(interferometer)
50 Hz to 1 kHz
0.5%
1.0%
1g(10 m/s )
50 Hz to 1kHz
2.0%
5.0%
0.01-1g
10 Hz to 10kHz
0.5%
2.0%
Acceleration
2
(0.1-10 m/s )

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Amend No: 00
Amend Date: --
Page No: 33 / 34
Measurement Capability
Measurement Range
Frequency
Range
(Uncertainty)
Level I
Level II
Level III
a)
Amplitude 1-10 mm
10 Hz to 10 kHz 0.5%
2.0%
5.0%
(0-10 mm)
b)
Acceleration 1-100 g
(frequency dependent)
10 Hz to
10 kHz
2.0%
5.0%,
0-100 g
(Frequency
dependent)
7.4
0.5% to 2.0%
ACOUSTIC POWER
Measurement
Range
0
to
140
(Frequency
dependent)
7.5
Frequency Range
dB
100 Hz to 5 kHz
Uncertainty
Level I
Level II
Level III
0.5 dB
1 dB
2 dB
ACCOUSTIC FREQUENCY
Frequency Range
1 Hz to 20kHz
7.6
Uncertainty
Level I
Level II
Level III
0.01%
0.1%
0.1%
ACOUSTIC ATTENUATION
Measurement
Range
Frequency
Range
Uncertainty
Level I
0 to 50 dB
100 Hz to 10 kHz 0.5 dB
Level II
Level III
1 dB
2 dB
0-60 dB

Doc. No: NABL 122
Issue No: 04

Issue Date: 28. 03.2008
Amend No: 00
Amend Date: --
Page No: 34 / 34

3rd Floor, NISCAIR
14, Satsang Vihar Marg
New Mehrauli Road
New Delhi 110 067
Tel.: 91-11 46499999
Fax: 91-11 26529716
Website: www.nabl-india.org

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NABL 122

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

Criteria for Accreditation

Accommodation and Environmental Conditions

Range, Uncertainty of Measurement and Traceability

Calibration Certificate/ Report

Proficiency Testing Programme

Range and Uncertainty of Measurement

Monitoring of Environmental Conditions

Shock and Vibration

Special Requirements of Laboratory

Repair and Maintenance

Storage and Packaging

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

Length and Angle Measurement

Mass, Volume and Density Measurement

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR ACCREDITATION OF

Calibration laboratories are accredited by NABL after it is demonstrated that a

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

CRITERIA FOR ACCREDITATION

accommodation and environmental conditions, safety, handling of calibrated equipment

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

A quality policy statement, including objectives and commitments by the top

A statement on the organization of the calibration laboratory.

Names, qualifications and experience of the persons responsible for managerial,

A clearly defined charter of responsibility showing the relationship between

Scope and operation together with information on measurement capability and

The reference of document number on detailed calibration procedures adopted

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

The procedure for redressal of technical

complaints should also be clearly specified and documented.

Arrangements for improvement of qualifications and periodic refresher courses and

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

ACCOMMODATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Environmental Conditions and Monitoring

Entry to the Calibration Area

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline

The standards/ measuring equipment of the laboratory should be calibrated at regular

Name of the equipment

Manufacturers name and address

Type, range, identification and serial number

Date of procurement and commissioning

Details of maintenance and repairs

Performance history with dates

Availability of service manual

Details of re-calibration of used, serviced and repaired equipment should also be

National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories

Specific Criteria for Calibration Laboratories in Mechanical Discipline