Service FAQs
Instron's service and calibration programs are designed to keep your testing systems accurate, compliant, and running at peak performance. Whether you're setting up a new system, navigating a calibration requirement, managing a service contract, or looking for remote support options, the answers below cover the most common questions about our service offering — from first installation through to long-term system care. For region-specific support or to arrange a visit, contact your local Instron office.
New to Instron Service?
Should I unpack my Instron when it arrives at my facility?
It is the customer's responsibility to arrange for the off-loading, unpacking, and transportation of the equipment to the test site. This includes all insurance and safety responsibilities. If installation is included with your system, please allow the Field Service Engineer to open boxes and verify all parts and contents. This helps to avoid the possibility of losing small pieces or parts. Learn more about installation and relocation.
What should I do if my system is damaged on delivery?
If your Instron system arrives damaged, do not attempt to install or operate it. Document the damage with photographs before unpacking further, and retain all original packaging materials. Contact your local Instron service office as soon as possible to report the damage and arrange next steps. Reporting promptly is important, as shipping damage claims are typically subject to time limits set by the carrier.
How do I register my Instron system after purchase?
To register your Instron system, contact your local Instron service office or visit www.instron.com. Having your system's model number, serial number, and purchase details on hand will help ensure your registration is completed quickly. Registration helps Instron maintain an accurate service history for your system and ensures you receive relevant product updates and support communications.
What information do I need to have on hand when contacting Instron service?
When contacting Instron service, having the following information ready will help ensure a faster response: your system's model number and serial number, a description of the issue or service required, your location and contact details, and any relevant error messages or symptoms you have observed. If your system is under a service contract, having your contract number available will also help expedite your request.
How do I find my system's model and serial number?
Your system's model number and serial number can typically be found on the identification label affixed to the frame of your testing system. The location of this label varies by product — on universal testing systems it is usually found on the base or column of the frame. If you are unable to locate the label, contact your local Instron service office for assistance.
How do I access software updates for my system?
Software updates for Instron systems are available through the Instron Connect Portal at www.instronservice.com. Customers with an active Instron Connect agreement can log in to download the latest software releases and update documentation. If you do not have an Instron Connect agreement or are unsure whether an update is available for your system, contact your local Instron service office.
Where can I find the user manual for my system?
Most user manuals and system documentation are available on our website. If you can't locate your manual, contact your local Instron service office and they will be able to provide the relevant documentation for your system. When requesting documentation, having your system model number and serial number on hand will help ensure you receive the correct version.
How do I set up an Instron Connect account?
Instron Connect access is provided as part of an Instron Connect agreement. Once your agreement is in place, your local Instron service office will provide instructions for setting up access to the Instron Connect Portal, Instron Connect Software, and the InSkill AI app. If you are interested in an Instron Connect agreement, contact your local Instron office to discuss the options available in your region.
Who should I contact if I'm not sure which service option is right for me?
Your local Instron service office is the best starting point. Instron's service team can assess your system, usage requirements, and compliance needs to recommend the most appropriate service contract, calibration plan, or support agreement for your situation. Visit www.instron.com to find your nearest Instron contact.
Service Contracts
What does an Instron service contract include?
Depending on your level of coverage, an Instron service contract typically includes scheduled preventive maintenance, calibrations, priority response for urgent service calls, software updates, and access to Instron's technical support team. Depending on the contract tier, coverage may also include parts, breakdown visits, reduced rates on repairs and training. Contact your local Instron office for a detailed breakdown of what is included in each contract level available in your region.
What is the difference between a service contract and a calibration contract?
A service contract typically includes annual preventive maintenance, along with discounts on repairs, parts, and training, as well as access to technical support. A calibration-only contract, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the periodic calibration and verification of your system's measurement accuracy in line with national and international standards. This usually includes the provision of accredited calibration certificates. Many customers choose to combine calibration and preventative maintenance within a single service agreement. To determine the best option for your needs, please contact your local office.
How do I request a service visit or repair?
Service visits and repair requests can be submitted through several convenient channels. You can use the Instron website at www.instron.com, contact your regional Instron service office by phone or email, or submit a request through the Instron Connect Portal or Instron Connect Software.
The Instron Connect Software is a remote support tool available on your system's dashboard or PC that allows you to submit service requests directly from the testing software and securely share your screen with an Instron engineer for faster, more efficient support.
How do I get a quote for service or repair?
Contact your local Instron service office to request a quote for service, repair, or a service contract. Instron's service team will assess your system's requirements and provide a quote based on the scope of work required. You can find regional contact details on our locations page.
What is the typical turnaround time for a repair?
Repair turnaround time depends on the nature of the fault, parts availability, and your location. For urgent repairs, particularly where testing operations are at a standstill, Instron prioritizes rapid response. Customers with active service contracts receive priority scheduling over non-contract customers. Contact your local Instron office for an estimate based on your specific situation.
What warranty does Instron provide on repairs?
Instron provides a standard warranty on new systems covering parts and repairs, with options available for certain products to extend this coverage beyond the original warranty period. Warranty terms may vary depending on the region and product type. For detailed information specific to your testing system or accessory, please contact your local Instron office.
How quickly can Instron respond to an urgent service call?
Instron prioritizes urgent service calls, particularly where a system failure has brought testing operations to a halt. Customers with active service contracts receive priority response over non-contract customers. Response times vary depending on your location and the nature of the issue. Contact your local Instron service office for information on response time commitments available in your region.
What happens if an Instron system needs a part that isn't immediately available?
Instron maintains an extensive parts inventory to support rapid repair turnaround. In cases where a part is not immediately available, Instron's service team will advise on the expected lead time and explore alternatives where possible, including expedited sourcing. Customers with active service contracts receive priority parts allocation. Contact your local Instron office to discuss your specific situation.
Is Instron fully insured?
Yes. Instron carries appropriate insurance coverage for its service operations. For specific information regarding insurance documentation or certificates of insurance, please contact your local Instron service office.
Can Instron develop a customized calibration plan that will optimize my costs and give me a competitive advantage?
Yes. Instron's service team can work with you to develop a calibration plan tailored to your system, usage patterns, and compliance requirements. A well-structured calibration plan can help you avoid unnecessary downtime, reduce costs, and ensure your systems are always audit-ready. Contact your local Instron office to discuss your requirements.
Can Instron manage the scheduling of all my calibrations, and will you arrange the visit in advance?
Yes. Instron can manage the scheduling of your calibration visits and will contact you in advance to confirm dates and preparation requirements. This helps ensure calibrations are completed on time, certificates remain current, and your quality management system stays up to date. Contact your local Instron service office to discuss scheduling options available in your region.
Remote & Technical Support
What is Instron Connect and how does it work?
Instron Connect is our remote support solution, combining key resources to help you quickly access the information and assistance you need. Instron Connect includes three platforms: the Instron Connect Portal, Instron Connect Software, and InSkill AI app. Each tool is designed to provide on-demand access to system information and resources, while enabling faster response times from Instron Technical Support. For more information on Instron Connect, contact your regional service office.
What is the Instron Connect Portal and how does it work?
The Instron Connect Software is included in an Instron Connect agreement and is built directly into Bluehill Universal software and console on Servohydraulic and ElectroPuls systems. It allows you to securely share your screen with an Instron service professional and submit service requests without leaving the testing software. Instron Connect enables faster diagnosis and resolution of software and system issues without requiring an on-site visit, reducing downtime and response times. It can also be used to send test methods and sample data files to Instron for review.
What is the InSkill AI app and how does it work?
The InSkill AI app is included as part of Instron Connect agreements and leverages generative AI to help you quickly find answers related to your Instron system. Simply enter your question into the chat interface to receive an instant, relevant response. If your issue cannot be resolved within the app, you can easily escalate it to Instron Technical Support for further assistance. After purchasing an Instron Connect agreement, you will receive an email from InSkill with instructions to set up your account. For more information, please contact your regional service office.
Does Instron offer remote diagnostics and support?
Yes. Instron offers remote technical support through Instron Connect, which is integrated into Bluehill Universal software and console on Servohydraulic and ElectroPuls systems. Remote support allows Instron engineers to diagnose software issues, review system data, and guide operators through troubleshooting steps in real time. For hardware faults that cannot be resolved remotely, Instron will schedule an on-site Field Service Engineer visit.
Does Instron offer technical support services?
Yes. Instron provides technical support through our Instron Connect agreements. These agreements offer access to support through multiple channels, including phone, email, the Instron Connect Portal, and directly from your system via the Instron Connect Software. On-site support from Field Service Engineers is also available when needed. Instron's global network of over 300 Field Service Engineers, speaking more than 40 languages, helps ensure local support is accessible in most regions. In addition, Instron offers a mobile troubleshooting tool powered by InSkill AI that enables customers to self-diagnose common issues using step-by-step guidance developed by our technical experts.
Preventative Maintenance
What is preventative maintenance and how often should it be done?
Preventative maintenance (PM) is a scheduled service visit in which an Instron Field Service Engineer inspects, cleans, lubricates, and checks your testing system to ensure it is operating correctly and to identify potential issues before they cause a failure. PM visits typically include checks of mechanical components, drive systems, load cell connections, safety features, and software. Instron recommends at least one preventative maintenance visit per year for most testing systems, though high-usage systems may benefit from more frequent service. Preventative maintenance is typically included as part of an Instron service contract.
Can Instron perform preventative maintenance on my materials testing system?
Yes. Preventative maintenance is a core part of Instron's service offering. All Instron Field Service Engineers are factory-trained and carry out preventative maintenance visits in accordance with Instron's documented procedures. Preventative maintenance visits can be scheduled as a standalone service or as part of an annual service contract. Contact your local Instron office to arrange a preventative maintenance visit.
Do I need to regularly check my Instron system?
Yes. Regular checks help ensure your system is performing accurately and reliably between scheduled service visits. Operators should monitor for any changes in system behavior, unusual sounds, error messages, or inconsistent results. Instron recommends performing periodic verification checks between full calibration visits to confirm the system remains within specification. If you notice any issues, contact your local Instron service office promptly.
Should I check accuracy in between full verifications?
Yes. Performing interim accuracy checks between full calibration visits is good practice, particularly in high-usage environments or where test results are subject to regulatory scrutiny. Interim checks help identify drift or issues early, reducing the risk of producing out-of-specification results. Instron can advise on appropriate interim verification methods for your system and application.
How frequently should I have my testing system checked or calibrated?
Instron recommends at least one calibration visit per year for most testing systems. However, the appropriate frequency depends on factors including the intensity of use, the criticality of your test results, industry or regulatory requirements, and whether the system has been moved or repaired. High-usage systems or those operating in regulated industries such as aerospace or medical devices may require more frequent calibration. Contact your local Instron office for guidance tailored to your situation.
Calibration Standards & Accreditation
What is the difference between calibration and verification?
Calibration is the process of comparing your testing system's measurements against a known reference standard and documenting any deviation. Verification confirms that the system meets a specified requirement — for example, the ±1% of reading accuracy requirement specified by ASTM E4 or ISO 7500-1 Class 1 for force measurement. In practice, calibration and verification are closely related: a calibration visit typically includes verification checks that confirm the system is within the required limits, and a certificate is issued documenting the results.
What is the difference between calibration and accredited calibration?
Standard calibration confirms that your system's measurements are accurate against a reference standard. Accredited calibration is performed by a laboratory that has been independently assessed and accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by a recognized accreditation body — NVLAP, UKAS, A2LA, or another ILAC member body. Accredited calibration provides a higher level of assurance because the calibration laboratory's competence, equipment, and procedures have been independently verified. Accredited calibration certificates are typically required in regulated industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and defense. Instron is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by NVLAP under lab code 200301-0.
What standards govern materials testing system calibration?
The primary standards governing force calibration of materials testing systems are ASTM E4 (Standard Practices for Force Verification of Testing Machines) and ISO 7500-1 (Metallic Materials, Calibration and Verification of Static Uniaxial Testing Machines). Extensometer calibration is covered by ASTM E83 and ISO 9513, while speed verification is defined by ASTM E2658. Displacement verification is addressed by ASTM E2309 or ISO 9513:2012/Cor 1:2013. Instron's calibration services comply with these standards and with Nadcap requirements for aerospace applications.
What is NVLAP accreditation and why does it matter?
NVLAP (the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program) is a program administered by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It evaluates and accredits laboratories to ensure they meet the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025, the international standard for testing and calibration competence. NVLAP accreditation matters because it provides independent verification that a laboratory has the technical expertise, equipment, and quality processes needed to produce accurate and reliable calibration results. For customers, this means greater confidence in the accuracy and traceability of their measurement data, as well as compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements — especially in highly regulated sectors such as aerospace, medical devices, and defense.
What is Nadcap accreditation and who needs it?
Nadcap (National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program) is a global cooperative accreditation program for the aerospace and defense industries. Instron's alignment calibration services are Nadcap compliant, meaning they meet the stringent quality and traceability requirements of aerospace prime contractors and their supply chains. If you supply components or materials to aerospace or defense customers, Nadcap-accredited calibration of your testing equipment may be required as part of your supplier qualification.
Is Instron accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by an agency that is a member of the ILAC agreement?
Yes. Instron's calibration laboratory is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by NVLAP, which is a signatory of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) mutual recognition arrangement. This means Instron's accredited calibration certificates are recognized internationally across ILAC member countries. Visit our certificates and accreditations page or contact Instron for details of the specific accreditation bodies and scope applicable to your region.
Note: ILAC has recently become a part of Global Accreditation Cooperation Incorporated (Global ACI). This has had no impact on Instron's accreditation status or its recognition. Global ACI has retained the recognition of ILAC signatories. Instron is monitoring the upcoming policy changes and will remain compliant as standards evolve.
What is Instron's scope of accreditation?
Instron's scope of accreditation covers force, displacement, speed, and strain measurement calibration services performed in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025. Full details of Instron's accreditation scope, including the specific measurement parameters and ranges covered, are available on our certificates and accreditations page, or by contacting your local Instron service office.
Are the calibrations that Instron provides accredited?
Yes. Instron provides accredited calibration services through its ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory, accredited by NVLAP under lab code 200301-0. Accredited calibration certificates issued by Instron are recognized internationally through the ILAC mutual recognition arrangement. Not all calibration services may be within the accredited scope — contact your local Instron office to confirm whether the calibration service you require falls within Instron's accredited scope.
Can Instron provide documentation to show traceability to national standards?
Yes. All Instron calibration services include documentation demonstrating traceability to national and international measurement standards. Accredited calibration certificates issued under Instron's ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation include a full traceability chain to NIST or equivalent national metrology institutes. This documentation supports audit requirements and quality management system compliance.
Does Instron have the necessary equipment and expertise to adjust and calibrate Instron equipment to accuracy levels demanded by national and international standards such as ISO and ASTM?
Yes. Instron's calibration laboratory and Field Service Engineers are equipped and trained to calibrate and verify testing systems to the accuracy levels required by ASTM E4, ISO 7500-1, ASTM E83, ISO 9513, and other relevant national and international standards. Instron's calibration equipment is itself calibrated and traceable to national standards, ensuring the integrity of the calibration process.
Is the uncertainty of measurement listed in Instron's scope of accreditation realistic, or does it represent an ideal case that will not be duplicated in my lab?
The measurement uncertainties listed in Instron's scope of accreditation are achievable under the conditions specified for each calibration procedure and represent realistic performance under those conditions. However, uncertainty of measurement can be influenced by environmental factors in your laboratory, such as temperature stability, vibration, and the condition of the system being calibrated. Instron's Field Service Engineers are trained to assess and account for these factors during calibration visits. Contact your local Instron office for further information on how measurement uncertainty applies to your specific system and environment.
Can Instron show calculations regarding your uncertainty reporting?
Yes. Instron can provide uncertainty budgets and calculations supporting the measurement uncertainties reported on accredited calibration certificates. This documentation is available on request and supports customers who need to demonstrate measurement traceability and uncertainty compliance to auditors or regulatory bodies. Contact your local Instron service office to request this information.
How long has Instron been providing accredited calibration services?
Instron has been providing accredited calibration services for decades, with a long-established track record in force, displacement, speed, and strain measurement calibration. Instron's calibration laboratory has maintained ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation through NVLAP continuously, demonstrating a sustained commitment to calibration quality and traceability. Contact your local Instron office for specific information on accreditation history.
I have an auditor asking for software verification documentation and Instron accreditation information. Where can I find this information?
Instron's accreditation certificates, scope of accreditation, and software validation documentation are available through the Instron Connect Portal at www.instronservice.com, or by contacting your local Instron service office. Your Instron service contact can provide the specific documentation needed to satisfy audit requirements, including ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation certificates and Calpro CR software validation records.
Are all of Instron's procedures documented?
Yes. Instron has full documentation meeting or exceeding the requirements of accreditation bodies and ISO/IEC 17025. Our Field Service Engineers carry all relevant documentation in electronic format for immediate accessibility. Full information is available on our calibration lab and accreditations page.
Calibration Process
Why does my materials testing system need to be calibrated/verified?
Calibration and verification ensure that your testing system is producing accurate, reliable measurements that can be trusted for quality control, research, and compliance purposes. Over time, mechanical wear, environmental factors, and system changes can cause measurement drift. Regular calibration confirms that your system remains within the accuracy limits required by relevant standards, protects the integrity of your test data, and supports compliance with industry and regulatory requirements.
When is calibration required?
Calibration is required at regular intervals — typically annually for most testing systems — and additionally after any event that could affect measurement accuracy, such as a system repair, component replacement, software update, or relocation of the system. Industry standards such as ASTM E4 and ISO 7500-1 specify calibration requirements for force measurement, and similar requirements exist for extensometers, displacement, and speed. Regulatory or customer requirements may also dictate specific calibration frequencies. Contact your local Instron office for guidance on the calibration schedule appropriate for your system and application.
How do I know if my testing system is measuring correctly?
The most reliable way to confirm your system is measuring correctly is through periodic calibration and verification against traceable reference standards. Between calibration visits, you can perform interim checks using reference weights or verification devices to monitor for drift. Inconsistent results, sudden changes in system behavior, or results that don't align with expected material properties can also indicate a measurement issue. If you have concerns about your system's accuracy, contact your local Instron service office.
How do I prove my testing system is giving good results?
Calibration certificates issued following a successful calibration visit provide documented evidence that your system was verified to be within the accuracy limits of the applicable standard at the time of calibration. For regulated industries, accredited calibration certificates issued under ISO/IEC 17025 provide the highest level of assurance. Keeping calibration certificates current and on file within your quality management system is the standard means of demonstrating measurement confidence to auditors and customers.
I have a materials testing machine — what needs calibrating?
The measurement channels that require calibration depend on the type of testing you perform. Force (load cell) calibration is required for virtually all materials testing applications. If your testing involves strain measurement, your extensometer will also require calibration. Systems used for displacement-controlled testing require displacement verification, and speed verification may be required for certain applications or standards. Instron can assess your system and testing requirements and recommend a calibration plan that covers all relevant measurement channels.
Can Instron calibrate load cells, extensometers, and displacement separately?
Yes. Instron offers calibration and verification services for individual measurement channels including force (load cells), strain (extensometers), speed, and displacement. These can be calibrated as part of a full system calibration or as standalone services where only specific transducers need to be verified. Contact Instron to discuss a calibration plan tailored to your system and measurement requirements.
Can Instron provide a full range of calibration services?
Yes. Instron provides a comprehensive range of calibration services covering force, displacement, speed, and strain measurement, in accordance with ASTM and ISO standards. Services are available as standalone calibrations or as part of a broader service contract. Accredited calibration is available under Instron's ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for applicable measurement parameters. Contact your local Instron office to discuss the full range of calibration services available in your region.
How do I prepare my lab for a calibration visit?
To prepare for an Instron calibration visit, communicate with Instron personnel in advance to confirm the scope and content of the calibration. Ensure the testing system is accessible and clear of any specimens or fixtures. The system should be powered on and warmed up before the engineer arrives. Any known faults or issues with the system should be reported to Instron in advance so the Field Service Engineer can bring appropriate parts or tools. The lab should meet the environmental conditions specified for calibration — typically a stable temperature between +10°C and +38°C. Your Instron contact will advise on any specific preparation requirements for your system.
What happens if my system fails calibration?
If your system fails to meet the verification requirements during calibration, Instron's Field Service Engineer will advise on the cause and the corrective action required. In many cases, the engineer can perform adjustments or repairs on-site to bring the system back into specification, after which the calibration is repeated and a new certificate is issued. If more significant repairs are needed, Instron will arrange a follow-up visit. Any test results produced by the system while it was out of specification should be reviewed for potential impact on your quality records.
Does Instron take the calibration data manually or automatically?
Instron uses proprietary Calpro CR calibration software to capture calibration data automatically wherever possible, reducing the risk of manual recording errors and ensuring a consistent, auditable process. The software is validated and documented to support traceability requirements.
Is the software used by Instron to perform the calibration validated and proven?
Yes. Instron's Calpro CR calibration software is validated and documented in accordance with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17025. Validation records are available on request and can be provided to satisfy auditor or regulatory requirements. The software is used consistently across Instron's global service operations, ensuring a standardized and auditable calibration process.
Does Instron provide electronic calibration certificates?
Yes. Instron provides calibration certificates in electronic format, typically as PDF documents. These certificates are also available on the Instron Connect Portal for up to 24 months following calibration, making it easy to access and store them within your quality management system for audit purposes. Contact your local Instron service office if you have specific requirements for certificate format or delivery.
Can I get a same-day calibration certificate?
In many cases, Instron can issue a calibration certificate on the same day as the calibration visit. Contact your local Instron service office to confirm the certificate turnaround time applicable to your region and calibration type.
Do I need to calibrate a machine after it has been moved?
Yes. Moving a testing system can affect its alignment, mechanical setup, and measurement accuracy, making recalibration necessary before returning to service. This applies to both short-distance moves within a facility and longer relocations. Instron recommends scheduling a calibration visit following any system relocation to confirm the system is performing within specification in its new location.
My materials testing system has undergone repairs and updates. Does it need to be recalibrated?
Yes. Any repair, component replacement, or significant software update that could affect measurement accuracy should be followed by recalibration and verification. This ensures the system is performing correctly after the work has been carried out and that your calibration records remain current. Instron's Field Service Engineers can advise on whether a specific repair or update requires recalibration.
What if adjustments or repairs are required for my testing equipment?
If adjustments or repairs are identified during a calibration visit or reported by the operator, Instron's Field Service Engineer will advise on the corrective action required. Where possible, adjustments will be made on-site during the same visit. If parts or additional time are needed, Instron will arrange a follow-up service visit. Following any repair that could affect measurement accuracy, the system will be reverified and a new calibration certificate issued.
Can Instron's Field Service Engineers repair and/or adjust an instrument on-site if it doesn't pass calibration?
Yes. In many cases, Instron's Field Service Engineers can perform adjustments or repairs on-site during a calibration visit to bring the system back into specification. After any adjustment, the calibration is repeated to confirm the system now meets the required accuracy limits, and a new certificate is issued. If the repair required is beyond what can be completed on-site, Instron will arrange a follow-up visit with the necessary parts and resources.
Global Coverage
Where are Instron Service Centers located?
Instron has service capabilities in more than 100 countries, with major service centers located at the worldwide headquarters in Norwood, Massachusetts, USA and European headquarters in High Wycombe, UK. Regional service offices and Field Service Engineers are located across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other key markets. Visit our locations page to find your nearest Instron service contact.
Does Instron service systems outside of the US and UK?
Yes. Instron provides service and support globally through a network of more than 300 Field Service Engineers, speaking 40+ languages, located in regions including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East. Instron's global coverage ensures that local, factory-trained service support is available to customers worldwide.
How many Field Service Engineers does Instron have globally?
Instron has more than 300 Field Service Engineers located around the world. All are factory-trained and supported by Instron's global technical expertise and materials testing engineering resources.
What industries does Instron service?
nstron services customers across virtually every industry that performs materials or component testing, including aerospace, automotive, biomedical and medical devices, pharmaceuticals, electronics, packaging, plastics, composites, metals, construction, textiles, and consumer goods. Instron's service team has deep application expertise across these industries, enabling engineers to support not just the equipment but the testing requirements of each customer's specific application.
Does Instron service medical and healthcare testing laboratories?
Yes. Instron has extensive experience servicing testing systems used in medical device manufacturing, biomedical research, and healthcare laboratories. Instron's service team understands the regulatory environment in which these laboratories operate, including requirements for calibration traceability, documentation, and audit readiness. Contact your local Instron office to discuss service and calibration options suited to your laboratory's compliance requirements.
Field Service Engineers
What is an Instron Field Service Engineer?
Instron Field Service Engineers are factory-trained technical specialists responsible for the installation, calibration, preventative maintenance, and repair of Instron testing systems at customer sites. All Field Service Engineers are trained directly by Instron to ensure they have the deep product knowledge and application expertise needed to support the full range of Instron systems and accessories.
Instron's global network includes more than 300 Field Service Engineers located across more than 100 countries, speaking over 40 languages. This means that wherever you are in the world, local, expert support is never far away. Each engineer is backed by Instron's global technical resources and materials testing engineering expertise, ensuring consistent service quality regardless of your location or the complexity of your system.
Are Instron Field Service Engineers properly trained, and do they receive ongoing training and competency testing?
Yes. All Instron Field Service Engineers undergo comprehensive factory training before working independently on customer systems. Training covers the full range of Instron products, calibration procedures, safety requirements, and application knowledge. Engineers also receive ongoing training and competency assessments as new products are introduced and standards evolve, ensuring they remain current with the latest Instron systems and service procedures.
What is the backup plan if your local Field Service Engineer is unavailable to perform a critical calibration?
Instron's global network of Field Service Engineers provides built-in redundancy. If your local engineer is unavailable, Instron can deploy an alternative engineer from the wider regional team to ensure your calibration or service visit is not delayed. For critical situations, Instron's service management team will work to find the fastest available solution. Contact your local Instron service office to discuss contingency arrangements for time-sensitive calibrations.
Does Instron have materials testing and engineering backup expertise to support your field and in-house service team?
Yes. Instron's Field Service Engineers are supported by a global team of materials testing engineers and technical specialists. This expertise is available to assist with complex applications, non-standard testing requirements, and situations where additional engineering input is needed to resolve a service or calibration issue. This depth of support ensures that customers have access to the right level of expertise regardless of the complexity of their testing requirements.
Legacy & Discontinued Systems
Can Instron service legacy or older Instron systems?
Yes. Instron offers service for a wide range of systems, including older and legacy models. With over 50,000 systems installed worldwide and more than 80 years of manufacturing history, Instron's service team has extensive experience maintaining systems across multiple generations of hardware. Parts availability may be more limited for very old systems, but Instron will work to find solutions including refurbished components or system modernization options. Contact your local Instron office to discuss support options for your specific system.
Can Instron source parts for discontinued systems?
Instron makes reasonable efforts to source parts for discontinued systems, including through refurbished or reconditioned components. Where original parts are no longer available, Instron's service team can advise on options that extend the working life of your system. Contact Instron service with your system model and serial number to discuss parts availability.
What happens if an Instron system needs a part that isn't immediately available?
Instron maintains an extensive parts inventory to support rapid repair turnaround. In cases where a part is not immediately available, Instron's service team will advise on the expected lead time and explore alternatives where possible, including expedited sourcing. Customers with active service contracts receive priority parts allocation. Contact your local Instron office to discuss your specific situation.