Expert Industrial Calibration Services in Washington State
Sarkinen Calibrating delivers NIST-traceable precision calibration services throughout Washington State, helping manufacturers maintain machine accuracy and eliminate unexpected downtime. From laser interferometry to ballbar testing, our comprehensive solutions verify equipment performance to one millionth of an inch per inch. Founded by a former machine operator, we understand production demands and provide faster local response times than out-of-area providers, ensuring your CNC machines, surface plates, and rotary axes operate at peak accuracy.
Our Industrial Calibration Services
Comprehensive precision measurement and verification services designed to keep your manufacturing equipment accurate and production running smoothly.
Laser Interferometry
Verify linear axis positioning accuracy to 1.0 parts per million using Renishaw's Laser Interferometer. NIST-traceable measurements evaluate positioning accuracy, repeatability, straightness, and squareness across full axis travel, identifying issues before they impact production quality.
Quickly assess CNC machine health using Renishaw's QC20-W Ballbar system. Wireless testing evaluates circularity and identifies critical issues like backlash, servo mismatch, axis reversal errors, and squareness problems to validate service work and support maintenance planning.
Measure angular positioning accuracy, repeatability, and alignment of rotary tables and trunnions using Renishaw's Rotary Calibration System. Verify proper installation and ongoing calibration to ensure rotary motion matches programmed commands for multi-axis machining accuracy.
Maintain reference plane accuracy through expert leveling and flatness verification using Moody Plot analysis. Evaluate surface plate condition to ensure continued accuracy for inspection and layout work as wear occurs over time in production environments.
Identify and correct machine axis errors using Mahr-Federal's Electronic Level. Detect pitch and roll errors in machine beds, guideways, and large structures where angular deviations affect accuracy, particularly after installation, relocation, or foundation movement.
Hands-on training for Renishaw Laser Interferometer, QC20-W Ballbar, CAM software, and CNC milling operations. Learn proper setup, data interpretation, and troubleshooting techniques to perform in-house diagnostics and maximize machine capability.
NIST-Traceable Precision That Eliminates Costly Surprises
Washington State manufacturers face unique challenges—from aerospace precision requirements to demanding production schedules across diverse industries. Our calibration services deliver measurements traceable to NIST and International Standards, exceeding the required 10:1 ratio for proper calibration. We verify that new machines meet manufacturer specifications while under warranty, identify hidden shipping damage, and monitor ongoing accuracy to prevent quality issues. With local service throughout Washington, Oregon, and Northern California, we provide faster response times than distant providers, minimizing disruption to your operations while ensuring highly predictable machine performance.
Proven Results
Trusted By Washington Manufacturers
Manufacturing facilities across the Pacific Northwest trust our precision calibration expertise to maintain accuracy and eliminate downtime.
"I have worked with Mr Sarkinen on a job in Portland
He is a Highly Skilled, Knowledgable Professional.
I would definitely recomend him for all your Machine Tool Calibration Metrics.
Sincerely
Curtis Page
Naughtellis CNC Service"
fab c
"This guy knows his stuff. Would definately recommend! Friendly good people!"
Lucas Pukas
"As plant manager at Triad, I am always looking for ways of testing and measuring the condition of our large machines. Our outside repair tech suggested that I have Sarkinen Calibrating run their Ball Bar Test on all of our machines to show if we had any critical wear issues..."
Mike Mills
"I have worked with Mr Sarkinen on a job in Portland
He is a Highly Skilled, Knowledgable Professional.
I would definitely recomend him for all your Machine Tool Calibration Metrics.
Sincerely
Curtis Page
Naughtellis CNC Service"
fab c
"This guy knows his stuff. Would definately recommend! Friendly good people!"
Lucas Pukas
"As plant manager at Triad, I am always looking for ways of testing and measuring the condition of our large machines. Our outside repair tech suggested that I have Sarkinen Calibrating run their Ball Bar Test on all of our machines to show if we had any critical wear issues..."
Mike Mills
"I have worked with Mr Sarkinen on a job in Portland
He is a Highly Skilled, Knowledgable Professional.
I would definitely recomend him for all your Machine Tool Calibration Metrics.
Sincerely
Curtis Page
Naughtellis CNC Service"
fab c
"This guy knows his stuff. Would definately recommend! Friendly good people!"
Lucas Pukas
"As plant manager at Triad, I am always looking for ways of testing and measuring the condition of our large machines. Our outside repair tech suggested that I have Sarkinen Calibrating run their Ball Bar Test on all of our machines to show if we had any critical wear issues..."
Mike Mills
The Sarkinen Difference
Why Choose Sarkinen Calibrating?
Experience the advantage of working with calibration experts who understand production operations from the ground up.
Local Response Times
Washington-based service means faster response than out-of-area providers, minimizing downtime and getting your equipment back to production quickly.
Operator Perspective
Founded by a former machine operator who understands real production challenges and delivers solutions that increase quality and efficiency.
Exceptional Accuracy
NIST-traceable measurements to 1.0 parts per million—one millionth of an inch per inch—exceeding required calibration ratios.
Comprehensive Solutions
Beyond equipment checks, we provide complete calibration solutions that verify warranty compliance, prevent problems, and ensure predictable operation.
Meet The Washington Team
Founded by professionals who understand precision manufacturing.
Larry
Founder
Larry's journey from machine operator to calibration service founder gives him a unique perspective that goes far beyond equipment maintenance. Having operated CNC machines firsthand, he understands the real-world production challenges manufacturers face daily—the frustration of unexpected downtime, the cost of scrap from axis errors, and the pressure to maintain tight tolerances. This operator-level experience drives his approach to calibration: it's not just about verifying numbers, it's about delivering solutions that genuinely increase production quality and efficiency. Larry built Sarkinen Calibrating on the principle that precision calibration should eliminate problems before they disrupt operations, providing manufacturers with the confidence that their equipment will perform exactly as promised. His hands-on background means he approaches every calibration with practical insight into how machine accuracy directly impacts your production floor, helping you achieve highly predictable operation with minimal disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can perform calibration?
Calibration should be performed by trained professionals using precision measurement equipment traceable to national standards like NIST. Sarkinen Calibrating's technicians are experienced in using advanced systems like Renishaw's Laser Interferometer and Ballbar to deliver accurate, reliable calibration results that meet industry requirements and support quality assurance programs.
How often should CNC machines be calibrated?
Most manufacturers calibrate CNC machines annually as part of preventive maintenance. However, calibration frequency depends on usage intensity, part tolerance requirements, and whether machines have been relocated or serviced. High-precision operations may require more frequent verification, while newer machines should be calibrated while under warranty to identify any shipping or installation issues.
What is NIST traceability and why does it matter?
NIST traceability means calibration measurements are linked through an unbroken chain to standards maintained by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. This provides documented proof that your equipment measurements are accurate and reliable, which is essential for quality certifications, customer audits, and ensuring your parts meet specifications consistently.
How long does calibration service take?
Service time varies by equipment type and test scope. Ballbar testing typically takes 1-2 hours, while comprehensive laser interferometry of multiple axes may require 4-6 hours. We work efficiently to minimize production disruption and can often schedule service during planned downtime or off-shift hours to accommodate your operations.
What's included in a calibration report?
Our detailed calibration reports include measurement data for positioning accuracy, repeatability, straightness, and squareness for each axis tested. Reports clearly identify any deviations from specifications, provide graphical analysis of results, confirm NIST traceability, and include recommendations for addressing any issues discovered during testing.
Can you calibrate machines during production hours?
While calibration requires dedicating the machine for testing, we work with your schedule to minimize impact. Many customers prefer off-shift or weekend service. We can also coordinate with planned maintenance windows or perform quick ballbar checks during shorter production breaks to monitor machine health without extended downtime.
Do you provide emergency calibration services?
Yes, we understand that unexpected accuracy problems can halt production. As a Washington-based provider, we offer faster emergency response than out-of-area companies. Contact us when you suspect machine accuracy issues, and we'll prioritize scheduling to diagnose problems quickly and get your equipment back to producing quality parts.
What geographic areas do you serve?
Sarkinen Calibrating primarily serves Washington State, Portland OR, and Northern California, with local presence providing faster response times than distant providers. We can also accommodate out-of-area service requests for customers who need our specialized expertise and NIST-traceable precision measurement capabilities.
Still Have Questions About Our Services?
Our calibration experts are ready to discuss your specific equipment and accuracy requirements.
Serving Manufacturers Across Washington State
Local calibration service throughout Washington with faster response times than out-of-area providers.
Contact us to confirm service availability and schedule your calibration assessment.
Certified & Trusted
Awards and Recognition
NIST Traceability
All measurements traceable to national standards
5-Star Rating
Perfect customer satisfaction score
Precision Certified
Accuracy to 1.0 parts per million
Get Your Free Calibration Assessment Today
Contact Sarkinen Calibrating to discuss your equipment accuracy needs. We'll respond promptly to schedule service that minimizes disruption to your production operations.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at (360) 907-3058.
For immediate assistance, feel free to give us a direct call at (360) 907-3058.