Main Menu

What Are My Options for Accelerometer Calibration?

From Field Checks to Primary Standards

Bruce Lachey, Services Team Lead at The Modal Shop, walks us through the basics of how to get an accelerometer calibrated. From single point checks to in-field frequency sweep with calibration certificates to laboratory calibrations, Bruce covers a wide overview of equipment and methods for accelerometer calibration.

Learn about the different ways to calibrate accelerometers

Key Points and Resources

Why calibrate accelerometers? We get this question occasionally. Accelerometers are generally durable and stable for years of operation, but there are a few common failure modes. Here’s a simple discussion of why accelerometers should be calibrated.

How often should I calibrate my accelerometers? This is a common question with a somewhat complicated answer.

Handheld shakers usually operate at 159.2 Hz. There are a couple of simple reasons for this. Here’s a practical explanation for why 159.2 Hz is often used. And another explanation with a visual included.

Types of Calibrations

Structural Gravimetric Calibration

Back to Back Calibration

Back to Back Calibration is a secondary calibration method (always requires a reference standard, is a comparison method, and obtains traceability indirectly)

Primary calibration

Establishes the sensor's sensitivity using a primary method of measurement, where the measurement result is obtained independently of a reference instrument of the same type

Less Common Types of Calibration

Low-Frequency Calibration

High-Frequency Calibration

Shock Calibration

Transverse Calibration

  • Available, but not commonly done
  • Measures response perpendicular to the intended sensing axis
  • Often performed during characterization
  • Most sensor issues are identified through standard frequency response testing

Important Practical Considerations

When submitting a sensor for calibration or performing calibration yourself, don't overlook these details:

  • Cable characteristics can affect measurements
  • Mounting methods vary significantly between manufacturers
  • Embedded or permanently installed sensors may require unique fixtures or procedures
  • Sensor mass and mounting stiffness can influence results

Choosing the Right Calibration Approach

Rent a Calibration Tool or System

Renting a calibration system is a great option when you have a temporary project, a short-term increase in calibration workload, or want to evaluate a system before making a purchase. It provides immediate access to traceable calibration capability without the capital investment, maintenance, or long-term ownership costs.

Buy a Calibration Tool or System

Purchasing a calibration system makes sense when you have a large sensor population, frequent calibration requirements, or need rapid turnaround without shipping sensors off-site. An in-house system can reduce downtime, improve scheduling flexibility, and lower the long-term cost per calibration.

Send Accelerometers to a Calibration Lab

Sending sensors to an accredited calibration laboratory is often the most practical choice when calibration needs are infrequent or when the lowest measurement uncertainty is required. It also eliminates the need to maintain calibration equipment, procedures, and trained personnel while ensuring traceable results from experienced metrology professionals.

If you're unsure which calibration method is best for your application, reach out to our team. We can help determine the most appropriate approach based on your sensor type, frequency range, uncertainty requirements, and operating environment.