# Calibration

Applies To: Infrared Thermal Imaging Devices (e.g., FLIR)

Calibration Method: Black Box (Thermal Reference Source)

Standard Reference: NATA Certification or Traceable Calibration

Permitted Tolerance: ±1°C

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### 1. Purpose

To ensure accurate and reliable thermal readings from infrared cameras used in food safety monitoring by performing a three-point calibration using a thermal black box.

<figure><img src="/files/r8prx2AGOENBnESsoU6x" alt="" width="563"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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### 2. Required Equipment

* Infrared Thermal Camera (e.g., FLIR)
* Certified Thermal Black Box
  * Preferably NATA-certified (three-point calibration)
  * If not available, must be traceably calibrated
* Tripod or camera mount
* Calibration log or digital record

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### 3. Calibration Standard

Perform a three-point calibration at the following temperatures:

* 50°C – lower operational limit
* 75°C – for mid-range verification
* 100°C – upper operational limit

Allowable variance: ±1.0°C at each point

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### 4. Calibration Procedure

#### Step 1: Preparation

* Power on the black box and allow it to stabilize at each calibration temperature.
* Mount the infrared camera securely on a tripod or level surface.
* Set the camera’s emissivity setting to match the black box surface (typically 0.95 unless otherwise specified).<br>

#### Step 2: Calibration at 50°C

* Point the camera at the 50°C surface of the black box from approximately 0.3 to 0.5 meter.
* Allow the reading to stabilize and record the temperature displayed.
* If the reading is outside ±1.0°C, adjust the camera per its internal calibration options or document as out of tolerance.<br>

#### Step 3: Calibration at 75°C

* Repeat the same process for the 75°C zone.
* Record the reading and confirm it is within the allowed deviation.<br>

#### Step 4: Calibration at 100°C

* Repeat the same for 100°C.
* Log the value and verify the result is within the specified tolerance.

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### 5. Documentation<br>

Record the following for each calibration point:

* Set point temperature
* Measured camera reading
* Difference (deviation)
* Whether adjustment was required
* Date and technician initials<br>

Use your organization’s calibration form or the Didge platform logging module.

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### 6. Notes and Considerations

* NATA certification of the black box is preferred. If not feasible, ensure the device has traceable calibration and retain certificates.
* Recalibrate the camera:
  * Every 6 months (recommended)
  * After repair or accidental drop
  * If readings are suspected to be inaccurate
* Perform calibration in a stable environment without airflow or reflective interference.
* The thermal imagery units emissivity value must match that of the blackbox calibration unit
  * MyFlir app currently has set emissivity values as follows:
    * Matte e=0.95
    * Semi-matte e=0.90
    * Semi-glossy e=80
    * Glossy e=60
  * There are no current options for further emissivity settings.

***

### 7. Acceptance Criteria

* All three calibration points must read within ±1.0°C of the set point.
* If any point fails to meet criteria:
  * Attempt recalibration
  * If unresolved, flag the camera for service or decommissioning


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