Occupational metrology is a field that is used to ensure the quality and safety of products and processes. This science focuses on establishing units and measurement methods for various parameters, such as weight and volume. It is used by various industries and sectors, including engineering, manufacturing, and energy. Professionals with advanced knowledge of science and mathematics are typically employed in metrology. Aside from technical skills, many individuals who want to pursue this career path also have a keen interest in engineering, physics, and mathematics.
The importance of metrology cannot be underestimated, despite its wide range of applications. In chemistry, for example, metrology is concerned with developing a structured support system for measurement standards, procedures, and metrological traceability. Chemistry and metrology have an important relationship, with the former often requiring a period of study before advancing to physical metrology. However, chemistry and metrology share a common premise – that of the importance of accuracy and repeatability.
Today’s manufacturing processes are highly automated, producing thousands of parts per week during peak demand. Some processes are automated with little or no human intervention. Unfortunately, many of these processes rely on worn machinery, leading to inaccuracies and unacceptable tolerances. The resulting physical differences in parts can cause quality issues, as well as regulatory compliance. Fortunately, manufacturers can mitigate the risks associated with this by implementing metrology best practices. For example, advanced statistical algorithms can improve the estimated measurement precision, as well as observe changes in a manufacturing process.
The International bureau of weights and measures defines metrology as “the science of measurement.” It involves the development of measurement standards and their transfer to users. National laboratories such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Bureau of Industrial Metrology and Precision Measurement (BIPM) coordinate this activity. BIPM coordinates international standardization, while international organizations work to ensure the quality of standards and meet the needs of users. A permanent organizational structure is required for these organizations.
In the field of nanometrics, the ultimate goal is to determine the number of atoms contained in a particular nanoscale structure. The science of nanometrology must deal with nanomaterials, which present several challenges in advancing the field. Nanometrology is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses several disciplinary fields. Nanomaterials, like those discussed above, are a form of nano-scale materials, and thus require new techniques to achieve high accuracy.
Sensory metrology uses tools and instruments to assess the sensory qualities of a product or material. The evaluation process of sensorial stimuli occurs when the user makes contact with the product or environment. This interaction is unique to each individual, making the analysis of these stimuli unique. Materials and food are evaluated using similar processes, but human beings have unique sensorial organs. Consequently, the sensory metrology of materials and foods differ. Therefore, assessing the properties of each of these substances requires different tools.
Modern analytical chemistry has improved chemical measurements. The science of metrology has established the principal principles of measurement: traceability, accuracy, and uncertainty estimation. These principles guide the use of analytical chemistry. The principles of metrology are fundamental to many fields of science and technology. The scope of applications of metrology is extremely broad and interdisciplinary. From atomic structure to medical devices, there are applications for metrology in every field. When used correctly, metrology can improve many aspects of human life.