Carolyn It is a science that allows the verification, validation and calibration of different processes in industrial measurement. Through the methods Helps get accurate resultswith the aim of developing new technologies, increasing the quality of production and mechanising the industrial processes of companies.
Meaning of industrial metrology
It is an important branch of metrology, which certifies the proper functioning of measurement tools that are used in industrial production. This science seeks encourage industrial competition through the assurance of measurements and constant calibration of measuring instruments.
Likewise, industrial metrology is the use of the science of measurement, which means that in the manufacturing process, the quality and precision of the manufactured parts is ensured. In addition, these test methods that are performed must be conforming to standards national and industrial
It must be borne in mind that industrial metrology laboratories are very important, as they not only provide theoretical calibration and measurement capabilities, but also give access to measurements according to applicable standards for quality control. Thus, for example, is the case of computed tomography, which provides help to users in metrology with 3D scanner by generating access to internal and external measurements.
Thanks to this science, information and precise elements of industrial processes can be acquired through human talent – machine, which It allows optimize and improve them. This is why this discipline integrates the knowledge and activation of this concept. In this way, thanks to the deployment of metrological resources, processes and methods, a high performance is achieved, which is required in today’s market.
What is industrial metrology according to the authors?
It must be taken into account that the authors have different approaches and definitions of industrial metrology, but in general they refer to it as the set of knowledge, techniques and practices used to make accurate and traceable measurements in the context of the industry.
Some authors define it as the application of the principles and methods of scientific metrology to the specific needs and requirements of the industry. This involves the development and implementation of systems of proper measurement and calibrationas well as the evaluation and control of the uncertainty of the measurements made.
Other authors highlight the importance of industrial metrology in ensuring the quality of manufactured products, due to the fact that it provides the foundations to maintain the measurement standardsand thus carry out tests and tests that allow verifying compliance with the technical requirements and product specifications.
In this way, industrial metrology deals with measurements in the manufacturing field, ensuring precision, reliability and the traceability of each pieceas well as the contribution to the quality of the products.
What is the goal of industrial metrology?
The main objective is to guarantee the accuracy and credibility of measurements in the industrial field. To achieve this, industrial metrology has the following specific objectives:
- takes care of develop and maintain measurement standards used in the industry. Through these standards a traceable reference base is provided for measurements and ensures consistency of results.
- It also focuses on the development and implementation of techniques and measurement methods that allow obtaining accurate results, which implies the use of suitable instruments, which are regularly calibrated and where rigorous measurement procedures are applied.
- On the other hand, he cares about evaluate and control the uncertainty associated with the measurements. Uncertainty is a measure of the reliability of the results and must be taken into account to ensure that measurements are highly accurate for industrial purposes.
- In addition, it plays a key role in the quality assurance of manufactured items. Through tests and trials, compliance with technical requirements and product specifications is verified, guaranteeing their quality and reliability.
What are the characteristics of industrial metrology?
Industrial metrology is based on the quality that is part of the manufacturing process of the parts. The companies have a deficiency in the metrology plan, being between 60% to 80% of failures, despite this, a series of characteristics can be established that distinguish it in the industrial field and that are necessary so that failures do not occur. Some of these are:
- traceability: refers to measurements that are made unambiguously with the benchmarks established nationally or internationally. In addition, a chain is established that guarantees the reliability and comparability of the results.
- Precision: seeks reduce systematic and random errors associated with the measurements. This is achieved by using accurate instruments, as well as proper methods and regular calibration of measuring equipment.
- Uncertainty: industrial metrology takes into account evaluation and control of measurement uncertainty, which recognizes that every measurement has an associated concern, and seeks to assess and communicate appropriately, which allows understanding of the reliability of measurement results.
- Calibration: Emphasis is placed on the calibration of the equipment, since it is the process of comparing the measurements of an instrument with a reference standard and adjust it if necessary. In addition, it ensures that tools are kept in top condition and provide accurate and reliable measurements.
- Standards development: is involved in the progress and maintenance of graduation standardssince they generate a traceable reference base to carry out measurements in the industry, ensuring the consistency and comparability of the results.
What does an engineer in industrial metrology do?
He is a professional specialized in the application of principles and techniques of metrology in the industrial field. Its main responsibility is to guarantee the precision of the measurements made in the manufacturing and quality control processes.
The industrial metrology engineer participates in the system design and development measurement methods suitable for the specific needs of the industry. This is why you must select the appropriate instruments, define the measurement methods, and establish the calibration procedures and protocols.
Also, do the calculation and evaluation associated with measurements made in the industry. This implies identifying and quantifying the sources of error and contributing to the control and reduction of doubt to guarantee the reliability of the measurement results.
They may also participate in research and development activities in this field, which means keeping abreast of the latest technologies and advances, as well as look for improvement opportunities and optimization of measurement processes in the industry.
In addition, you must participate in the implementation of quality management systems, as ISO 9001because with this it is ensured that the measurement processes comply with the established quality requirements, carry out internal audits and contribute to the consolidation of the excellence of the products.
In the same way, this professional can work in the automotive, aeronautical, manufacturing, and chemical industries, among others, where he seeks the proper functioning of the laboratory, in which monitor quality systems, establishes certificates and accreditations. For this reason, they generally work in a metrology and research center.
What are the types of industrial metrology?
It is important to highlight that industrial metrology is very broad and is constantly evolving. Therefore, there may be other specialized areas that vary according to the specific needs and applications of the industry. Some types are as follows:
- Dimensional metrology: It focuses on physical measurements, such as length, height, width, diameter, thickness, among others. This area is fundamental in the manufacture of components and products, where it is crucial ensure required dimensions.
Force and pressure metrology: is one that includes calibration and verification of force-per-kW measuring devices, such as balances, dynamometers, and pressure systems used in industry.
- Electrical metrology: focuses on the measurements of electrical magnitudes, such as voltage, current, resistance and power. This is why this area is relevant for the verification of electrical measurement equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes and power supplies.
- Optical metrology: deals with measurements in optical instruments, among which are microscopes, interferometers, spectrometers and artificial vision systems. This methodology is useful in manufacturing precise components and in the visual quality inspection of products.
- Temperature metrology: It is the one that is in charge of the calibration of thermometers, thermocouples, pyrometers and other temperature measurement devices. Which are used in the industry to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.
- Mass and weight metrology: it includes the graduation of balances, scales and other devices mass measurement used in production processes and quality control.
