Accurate Thermal Systems ThermCal400 Dry-Block Temperature Calibrator

Overview

The Accurate Thermal Systems ThermCal400 is a high-performance dry-block temperature calibrator engineered for precision, portability, and field-deployable reliability. Utilizing resistive heating elements embedded within a thermally optimized aluminum block, the ThermCal400 achieves rapid thermal equilibrium and exceptional axial and radial temperature uniformity across its interchangeable well inserts. Its operating principle relies on stable, closed-loop PID-controlled heating of a solid metal mass—eliminating fluid handling, evaporation risks, and contamination concerns associated with liquid-bath calibrators. Designed specifically for calibration traceability in regulated environments, the ThermCal400 delivers laboratory-grade accuracy (±0.4°C up to 400°C) while maintaining a compact footprint (8″ × 8″ × 8″) and lightweight construction (11 lb with inserts), enabling seamless transition between benchtop lab verification and on-site sensor validation.

Key Features

• Interchangeable well insert system supporting probe diameters from 3.2 mm (1/8″) to 9.5 mm (3/8″), including metric equivalents—enabling simultaneous calibration of RTDs, thermocouples, bimetallic thermometers, and infrared sensor reference sources.
• Adjustable ramp rate control for precise thermal profiling during switch and thermostat testing, including programmable dwell times at setpoints.
• Large-format, high-contrast LCD display with dual °C/°F units and intuitive menu navigation; supports user-defined offset adjustments using customer-owned reference standards.
• Dual-stage thermal protection: independent overtemperature limiter (460°C cutoff) and continuous cooling fan operation across full range ensure long-term controller stability and component longevity.
• NIST-traceable calibration certificate supplied as standard; compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements for accredited calibration laboratories.
• Robust mechanical architecture with reinforced housing and integrated carry strap—designed for repeated transport without recalibration drift or mechanical misalignment.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ThermCal400 accommodates a broad spectrum of contact temperature sensors and devices requiring thermal validation. Certified compatibility includes Pt100 and Pt1000 RTDs, Type J/K/T/E thermocouples, liquid-in-glass (LIG) thermometers, dial thermometers, handheld digital thermometers, infrared sensor blackbody references, and data loggers with external probe inputs. All operational parameters adhere to IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC emissions) and IEC 61010-1 (safety for electrical equipment). CE marking confirms conformity with EU directives for electromagnetic compatibility and low-voltage safety. The device supports GLP/GMP workflows through audit-ready calibration records and is compatible with FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data management systems when paired with optional software interfaces.

Software & Data Management

While the ThermCal400 operates autonomously via front-panel controls, it features an RS-232 serial interface (optional USB-to-serial adapter available) for integration into automated calibration management platforms. Users may export real-time temperature logs, ramp profiles, and stability metrics for inclusion in electronic calibration records. Firmware supports firmware-upgradable calibration coefficients—ensuring long-term metrological integrity without hardware replacement. The included NIST-traceable certificate documents as-found/as-left data per ANSI/NCSL Z540-1 and ISO/IEC 17025 requirements, facilitating internal audits and third-party accreditation reviews.

Applications

• Periodic verification and adjustment of process temperature sensors in pharmaceutical manufacturing, food processing, and HVAC commissioning.
• Field calibration of portable thermometers used in maintenance, quality assurance, and regulatory inspections.
• Thermal switch actuation testing with controlled ramp rates and dwell verification per ASTM E2877-22 (Standard Guide for Thermometer Calibration).
• Validation of infrared thermometer reference sources against fixed-point or secondary standards.
• Education and training labs requiring repeatable, safe, and low-maintenance temperature reference sources.
• Support of ISO 9001:2015 Clause 7.1.5 (Monitoring and measuring resources) and ISO 13485:2016 calibration control requirements.

FAQ

What probe diameters does the ThermCal400 support?
The unit ships with five interchangeable inserts accommodating probes from 1/8″ (3.2 mm) to 3/8″ (9.5 mm) in 1/16″ increments, plus corresponding metric-sized options.
Is the ThermCal400 suitable for calibrating infrared thermometers?
Yes—it serves as a stable, uniform surface source for verifying IR thermometer emissivity settings and distance-to-spot ratio performance when used with appropriate blackbody-compatible inserts.
Does the device meet requirements for FDA-regulated environments?
It complies with foundational metrological requirements for calibration equipment under 21 CFR Part 11 when integrated with validated software; the NIST-traceable certificate satisfies documentation mandates for instrument qualification.
Can the ThermCal400 be powered from both 120 V and 240 V supplies?
Yes—auto-sensing input accepts 120 VAC or 240 VAC at 50/60 Hz; rated current draw is 8 A at 120 V and 4 A at 240 V.
What is the depth and diameter of the calibration wells?
Each well is 4.5 inches deep with a nominal diameter of 1.5 inches—optimized for immersion depth compliance per ASTM E740 and IEC 60584 standards.