Thermometer Calibration Ice Bath Method

A procedure for the effective recalibration of liquid in glass thermometers author.

Thermometer calibration ice bath method.

Use a tall glass so you have at least a few inches to dip the thermometer in and get an accurate measurement. 1 1 calibrate thermometers by comparison with standard thermometers while immersed in stirred water or oil baths. Crushed ice is recommended for this step as pieces of crushed ice can sit closer together in the glass. The ice method 1 fill a tall glass with ice.

Hold the stem in the ice bath for 30 to 60 seconds. The advantage of this method is that an accurate thermometer will always read 32 f in a properly made ice bath regardless of altitude or atmospheric pressure. Alternately calibrate specific points by placing in a reference temperature bath such as a mixture of crushed ice and water. Ice bath calibration steps first you ll fill your clear glass to the top with ice.

However before you attempt to adjust a digital instant read thermometer check that the readings are within the manufacturers accuracy specifications. Stir the ice water and let it sit for 3 minutes. The ice bath test is the easiest way to test a thermometer for accuracy assuming your thermometer will display temperatures of 32 f or less. Place your thermometer in the ice water making sure to stick the probe at least 2 inches into the mixture but not to touch the sides or the bottom.

Adjust the hex nut under the head or dial of the thermometer so that the temperature reads 32 degrees f which is the temperature of ice water. Adjust your dial thermometer as directed by the manufacturer. Bulb volume change ice bath ice point its 90 liquid in glass thermometer recalibration thermometer created date. Ice bath calibration the easiest way to test the accuracy of any thermometer is in a properly made ice bath.

Your thermometer should read 32 f 0 c in the ice bath. If you do this carefully your ice bath will be 32 f 0 c within 0 1 f.