MESA LABORATORIES, INC. DataTrace Division
Standard
Operating
Procedure
Release Date: August 27, 2010
Page: 21 of 32
Revision B
1. Select the export format (Excel).
2. Click the Select Profile button to display a listing of all profiles stored in DTW. From the
listing select one or more of the profiles. Click OK.
3. Enter the destination path and file name. Use the Browse function to define the path. The
DTW program offers a default name “EXPORT”. This name should be changed to avoid
overwriting previous files of the same name. Name the file as appropriate, but do not edit
the filename extension. Press Enter.
4. Click the Export button. A message warning that the exported file will no longer be secure
will be displayed. Click OK. When the Export Complete dialog box appears an Excel
spreadsheet has been created. Click OK.
5. The spreadsheet will list all of the selected profiles in columns with the first columns
listing date/time. The data appears in columns with the column heading of Tracer serial
numbers.
8.7. Verifying
Calibration
8.7.1. Temperature Tracer
This procedure describes a method for verifying the temperature measurement accuracy of
Tracers. This procedure can be performed on a Tracer any time accuracy needs to be verified.
1. Tracers are normally tested at several temperature points. We recommend that
temperature points are selected which are critical in reference to the target process. For
example, using Tracers in a sterilization process would suggest using 121°C for a
verification point.
The temperature sensor in Tracer is a precision NTC thermistor or a PT2000 RTD. These
particular sensors were selected based on their close tolerance and good, long-term
stability. DataTrace
®
Tracers are warranted to remain within accuracy specifications for
one year from date of purchase.
2. The test is performed by immersing the Tracer's sensing element in an environment that
provides a uniform, stable temperature, and immersing a temperature reference standard
(reference) into the same environment for comparing the measurements of the reference
against the Tracer's measurements.
A. Constant temperature liquid circulating baths are recommended to provide the
temperature environment up to 150°C (FRB Tracers) or 140°C (MPIII Tracers) with
minimum specifications of 0.005°C uniformity and 0.005°C stability. For temperatures
above that, an oven with an isothermal block should be used. The isothermal block
provides thermal coupling between the Tracer(s) and the reference, and should have
uniformity and stability better then 0.050°C.
Dow 200 silicone fluid with a viscosity of 5 centistokes is recommended as the
medium in the constant temperature bath for temperatures below 10°C.
Distilled water can be used as the medium in the constant temperature bath for
temperatures from 10°C to 80°C.
