Optimization of DSC calibration procedure

The influence of calibration of differential scanning calorimeters on data precision could not be underestimated. The more precise the calibration procedure is the more time is required for proper calibration of the DSC instrument. Since for each change of the experimental conditions (pan material, heating rate, purge gas, etc.) a calibration is needed, time spent on calibration of one calorimeter is often measured in dozens of hours per year. This paper describes the strategy for speeding up temperature and heat flow calibrations of differential scanning calorimeters. The amount of time saved by different modifications of the procedure as well as the influence of the approach on accuracy of calibration data is estimated.