1. Why Calibration Is Necessary
In any pressurized system, especially air compressor systems, safety relief valves and pressure gauges are critical components for safe operation and accurate monitoring.
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A safety relief valve protects against overpressure. If it's not properly calibrated, it may fail to open on time, leading to system failure or explosion.
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A pressure gauge provides the operator with real-time pressure data. If inaccurate, it may lead to poor decisions, unsafe conditions, or damage to equipment.
Regular calibration ensures:
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Safe operating conditions
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Accurate pressure readings
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Regulatory compliance
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Extended equipment lifespan
2. Calibration of Safety Relief Valve
Purpose:
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Ensure the valve opens at the correct set pressure (e.g., 10 bar)
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Prevent premature discharge or delayed activation during overpressure situations
Regulatory Requirements in Malaysia:
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Under DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) / JKKP, safety valves on pressure vessels must be inspected and calibrated annually
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A Competent Person (CP) or certified third-party must carry out the calibration
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Calibration records are required for audits and inspections
General Calibration Process:
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Remove valve from system (if not inline testable)
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Apply pressure using a calibrated test rig
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Record set pressure (when it opens) and reseating pressure
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Adjust if necessary or replace the valve
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Attach calibration label and issue a calibration certificate
3. Calibration of Pressure Gauge
Purpose:
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Ensure pressure readings are accurate and within acceptable error limits
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Support safe operation and reliable system monitoring
Recommended Calibration Frequency:
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Every 6 to 12 months, depending on:
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Usage frequency
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Environmental conditions
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Criticality of the application
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For high-precision or safety-critical systems: every 3 to 6 months
General Calibration Procedure:
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Connect the gauge to a calibrated pressure source (e.g., hand pump with digital master gauge)
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Check gauge readings at various test points (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%)
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Compare with the reference standard
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Adjust if possible, or replace if outside of tolerance
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Label and document results in a calibration report
4. Important Notes and Best Practices
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Calibration must be performed by qualified personnel using traceable standard equipment
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Ensure devices are clean and in good condition before calibration
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Maintain full documentation, including:
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Calibration date
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Technician name
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Equipment used
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Results and next due date
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Replace any valve or gauge that fails calibration
5. Summary Table
Component | Calibration Purpose | Frequency | Mandatory in Malaysia |
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Safety Relief Valve | Ensure accurate opening pressure | Annually | Yes (DOSH/JKKP) |
Pressure Gauge | Ensure accurate readings | 6–12 months | Yes (for compliance) |
Proper calibration of safety relief valves and pressure gauges is a critical part of preventive maintenance. It ensures system safety, compliance with Malaysian regulations (DOSH), and prevents costly failures or accidents.
Recommendation: Schedule regular calibration with certified personnel, and always maintain records for audit and traceability purposes.