Calibration of precision temperature sensors in the ultra-Low temperature range from (−180 °C to −80 °C)
Best CMC in India: ± 0.030 °C by comparison method
Ultra-low temperature calibration is a critical process in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of temperature sensors operating in extreme environment. The calibration range from −180 °C to −80 °C covers a spectrum of applications where high precision is not just beneficial but essential requirement for users, such as cryogenics, aerospace applications, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical industry. Calibrating sensors within this range is a complex task, requiring sophisticated equipment and procedures to ensure traceability, repeatability, and reliability with minimal measurement uncertainty.
FARE Labs has established a calibration facility for precision sensors and devices in the temperature range from -180 ° to -80 °C using an apparatus consisting of a simple heated metal block design immersed in a single, safe surrounding liquid N2. The Cryostat comprises of an insulated machined copper equalizing block inside attached via a flange to a lid giving access through uniform holes for three measuring thermometers with a depth of immersion 200 mm and dia 10 mm. The apparatus immersed in liquid nitrogen will cool to approximately -195 °C. The controller with micro-Watt level heater, permits the cryostat to be set at any temperature above liquid nitrogen temperature to attain a significant stability of temperature better than (±0.005 °C) in the copper block. An RS422 connector permits the calibration to be automated using Software programs.
FARE Labs has established the best calibration and measurement capability (CMC) of ±0.030 °C in the given range, which ranks among the finest in the country for calibration of high precision sensors such as Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs), thermocouples (TCs), and thermistors widely used in the ultra-low temperature applications and thus meeting the national and international standards.
The performance of temperature sensors is directly affected at low temperature and hence their calibration is frequently required to ensure their accuracy in the systems they are used. For example:
- In cryogenic applications, even a minor deviation in temperature can affect the physical properties of materials or the efficiency of liquefied gases.
- In biomedical and pharmaceutical storage, ultra-low freezers (typically at −86 °C) store vaccines, enzymes, and cell cultures. Incorrect measurements could lead to spoilage or failed experiments.
- Aerospace and defence systems may encounter extremely low temperatures in high-altitude or space environments, requiring accurate sensor performance for mission success.
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