Accurate Thermal Systems ThermCal130 Dry-Well Temperature Calibrator

Overview

The Accurate Thermal Systems ThermCal130 is a precision-engineered dry-well temperature calibrator designed for field-deployable and laboratory-based thermal sensor verification. Operating on the principle of resistive heating and thermoelectric cooling within a thermally isolated metal well, the ThermCal130 achieves stable, uniform temperature zones across its full operational range—from –25°C to 130°C—without requiring external refrigeration or liquid baths. Its compact, lightweight architecture (15 lbs / 6.8 kg) and rapid thermal response (typical stabilization time <15 minutes across most setpoints) make it suitable for on-site calibration of critical temperature measurement assets in pharmaceutical manufacturing, HVAC commissioning, food safety auditing, and industrial process control environments. Unlike fixed-bore competitors, the ThermCal130 employs a modular slot system, enabling physical adaptation to diverse probe geometries without compromising axial temperature uniformity or radial gradient performance.

Key Features

• Wide operational range: –25°C to 130°C (–13°F to 266°F) at 20°C ambient, engineered for sub-ambient stability without cryogenic media
• Interchangeable probe wells—user-replaceable slots accommodate RTDs, PRTs, thermocouples (Types J, K, T, E, R, S, B), LIG thermometers, bimetallic switches, analog dial gauges, handheld digital thermometers, and data loggers
• Dual-fan thermal management: independent cooling circuits for the calibration well and internal electronics chassis ensure long-term reliability and consistent accuracy under sustained operation
• Large-format, high-contrast LCD interface with intuitive navigation; supports dual-unit display (°C/°F) and user-initiated offset adjustment using customer-provided reference standards
• Eight programmable setpoint memory locations for repeatable calibration sequences—ideal for multi-point verification per ASTM E2877 or ISO 17025-compliant procedures
• Complete out-of-box readiness: includes single-probe slot, carry strap, slot removal tool, universal AC power cord, and NIST-traceable calibration certificate issued by an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited provider

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ThermCal130 supports calibration of contact-type temperature sensors with diameters from 1.5 mm to 9.5 mm (0.06″ to 0.375″) via optional slot inserts (sold separately). Its thermal uniformity profile meets or exceeds industry benchmarks for dry-well calibrators: axial gradients ≤ ±0.05°C and radial gradients ≤ ±0.03°C over a 60 mm immersion depth at nominal setpoints. The device is manufactured in the United States under controlled engineering protocols aligned with ISO 9001 and supports compliance workflows required by FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when used with validated software interfaces), EU Annex 11, and GxP-regulated environments. All delivered units include documentation traceable to NIST through an A2LA-accredited calibration laboratory, satisfying audit requirements for GLP and GMP applications.

Software & Data Management

While the ThermCal130 operates as a fully standalone instrument, it integrates seamlessly with third-party calibration management software (e.g., MET/TEAM, Qualer, LabWare LIMS) via RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters (not included). The controller supports ASCII command protocol for remote setpoint control, real-time temperature readback, and status polling—enabling automated calibration routines and electronic record generation. Audit trail functionality is maintained externally through host software; the unit itself logs no internal data but provides timestamped calibration certificate metadata (date, technician ID, standard used, uncertainty budget references). Firmware updates are available through Accurate Thermal Systems’ secure support portal, with version history documented per IEC 62304 Class B software lifecycle requirements.

Applications

• Periodic verification and adjustment of temperature sensors in cleanroom monitoring systems (ISO 14644-1)
• Field calibration of thermocouple inputs in PLC-controlled HVAC and sterile processing equipment
• Validation of temperature data loggers used in cold chain logistics (ICH, WHO, USP <1083>)
• Multi-point linearity checks for Pt100 RTDs per IEC 60751 Class A tolerances
• Functional testing of mechanical temperature switches prior to installation in boiler or chiller safety interlocks
• Education and training labs requiring hands-on exposure to metrological best practices in thermal instrumentation

FAQ

Does the ThermCal130 require periodic recalibration?
Yes—annual recalibration is recommended to maintain traceability and measurement confidence. Accurate Thermal Systems offers factory-return calibration services with full uncertainty budgets and ISO/IEC 17025 reporting.
Can I use my own reference thermometer with the ThermCal130?
Yes. The unit allows user-defined offset correction using any NIST-traceable reference probe connected externally; no proprietary hardware is required.
Is the ThermCal130 suitable for calibrating infrared thermometers?
No—it is designed exclusively for contact-type sensors. Blackbody calibrators (e.g., ThermCal BB series) are required for non-contact radiation thermometry.
What is the typical warm-up time before first use?
Less than 5 minutes from power-on to stable internal electronics temperature; full thermal equilibrium at extreme setpoints (e.g., –25°C or 130°C) typically occurs within 12–18 minutes depending on probe mass and ambient conditions.
Are replacement probe slots available for purchase?
Yes—standard, narrow, and deep-insert slots are stocked and shipped globally; each slot is individually calibrated and certified for dimensional and thermal performance.