The Fluke 729 Automatic Pressure Calibrator can take voltage readings on pressure transmitter signal conditioners while measuring pressure, which eliminates having to carry another meter.
“Our neutron beam facility, which consists of the linear accelerator, cryogenic plant, and target facility, is operated by various software and process controls,” said a process control technician for the facility. “We calibrate a number of pressure transducers, strain gauges, pressure switches, and signal conditioning boards as part of new installations, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting. Accuracy is vital for successful operation.”
For many years, the lab had calibrated those devices using the Fluke 744 Documenting Process Calibrator. However, in 2017, that same process control technician attended a trade show where he saw a demonstration of a new Fluke 729 Automatic Pressure Calibrator. “I was very interested to see that the 729 had an automatic pump built into the device,” said the technician. “It’s like a one-stop shop to accomplish our calibrations, versus having to carry multiple components like a hand pump and a vacuum pump.”
The technician noted that, not only does the automatic pump save time, it is more ergonomic because he no longer has to pump up the pressure by hand. This can significantly reduce wear and tear on technicians over several calibrations. “When we check our pressure transducers we have to pump it up as high as 300 psi. With the 729, I just enter the pressure required and it automatically pumps up to that level. It reduces hand pump instrument error and reduces calibration time by about 40 percent,” the technician added.