Calibration pumps (hand pumps) generate precise pressure or vacuum by hand operation, used together with a pressure gauge, calibrator, or reference instrument to test and calibrate pressure devices in the field or lab. We stock pneumatic and hydraulic hand pumps for a range of pressure and vacuum ranges.

Pneumatic vs. Hydraulic Calibration Pumps

Pneumatic hand pumps generate pressure or vacuum using air, suitable for lower-pressure calibration work typically up to a few hundred psi, commonly used for gauges, switches, and transmitters in gas-media applications. Hydraulic hand pumps use a liquid medium (usually oil or water/glycol) to generate much higher pressures, needed for calibrating high-pressure gauges, transducers, and hydraulic system components beyond the practical range of pneumatic pumps.

Pressure Range & Fine Control

Pneumatic pumps typically cover ranges from vacuum up to 500-600 psi, while hydraulic pumps extend into the thousands or even tens of thousands of psi range. Most calibration pumps include a fine-adjustment control to precisely dial in a target test pressure once the approximate level is reached with the main pump stroke.

Compatibility With Calibrators

Calibration pumps are typically used alongside a separate pressure gauge, digital calibrator, or reference standard connected via a T-fitting, so the pump itself generates the pressure while the connected instrument provides the accurate reading and the device under test is verified against it.

Common Applications

Field calibration of pressure gauges and transmitters
Calibration lab pressure generation
Pressure switch and relief valve testing
Vacuum instrument calibration

Not sure which calibration pump fits your application? Contact our team — we can help match pressure range, media type, and fine-adjustment features to your specific requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a pneumatic or hydraulic calibration pump?

Pneumatic pumps are suited for lower-pressure calibration work using gas media, typically up to a few hundred psi. Hydraulic pumps are needed for higher-pressure calibration work beyond what pneumatic pumps can safely and practically generate.

Does a calibration pump include its own pressure display?

No, most calibration pumps generate pressure only and are used alongside a separate pressure gauge or digital calibrator that provides the actual reading for comparison against the device under test.

What is the fine-adjustment control used for?

The fine-adjustment control allows precise, small pressure changes once the approximate target pressure has been reached with the main pump stroke, which is important for accurately hitting specific calibration test points.

Do you provide calibration certificates for these pumps?

Calibration and verification services are available on select models. Contact us to confirm options for your specific pump.