DAkkS calibration vs. factory calibration: What companies need to know!
In measurement technology, the choice of calibration procedure determines the quality, legal certainty and international acceptance of measurement results. While DAkkS calibration is considered the gold standard, factory calibration offers seemingly cost-effective alternatives. But what are the key differences?
1. comparison of definitions
- DAkkS calibration:
- Only carried out by accredited laboratories in accordance with DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025.
- Traceability to national standards with documented measurement uncertainty
- Auditable certificates with international recognition (ILAC-MRA)
- Factory calibration:
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- Internal calibration by manufacturer or own personnel.
- Often without standardised traceability or complete measurement uncertainty analysis
- No accreditation requirement – procedures vary depending on the company
2. technical differences
3. Rechtliche und wirtschaftliche Aspekte
- Compliance:
- DAkkS certificates fulfil legal requirements (e.g. IATF 16949 in the automotive industry)
- Factory calibrations are not sufficient for certifications or official tests
- Costs:
- DAkkS calibration: Higher initial costs, but lower risk of recalls or penalties
- Factory calibration: cost savings possible, but with higher liability risk
- Global market:
- DAkkS certificates are recognised worldwide (ILAC agreement)
- Factory calibrations often lead to verification difficulties for international customers
4. use cases: When which solution makes sense
- DAkkS calibration is essential for:
- Medical device manufacturing (e.g. insulin pens) [✔️ ],
- Automotive supplier (IATF 16949)
- Processes subject to certification in accordance with ISO 9001
- Factory calibration is sufficient for:
- Internal process monitoring without compliance requirements
- Simple measurement tasks with low risk potential
- Short-term calibrations between DAkkS cycles
5. future trends: Why DAkkS is gaining in importance
With the tightening of standards such as MDR 2017/745 for medical devices and ISO 13485, DAkkS calibration is becoming the de facto standard in regulated industries
Modern quality systems increasingly demand combined utilisation:
- DAkkS for critical measuring points,
- Factory calibration for supporting processes – but traceable to DAkkS references
Conclusion
The choice between DAkkS and factory calibration determines market access, product liability and quality image. While factory calibration offers short-term cost advantages, DAkkS calibration ensures long-term competitiveness – especially in regulated markets with zero-error tolerance.