What Is Metrology and Why Is It So Important?

What Is Metrology?

Put simply, metrology is the study of measurements and the units involved in measurements. Down to the smallest units with nanometers and micrometers, metrology has firm definitions in line with scientific consensus. Much of metrology aligns with scientific facts and constants, as these remain the same, whereas relying on physical artifacts risks degradation over time.

What Are the Types of Metrology?

Metrology falls into three distinct categories. Scientific metrology focuses on the evolution and definitions of different units of measurement, industrial metrology focuses primarily on the application of metrology in an industrial setting, and legal metrology discusses the legal implications of transitions in the definition of measurements from one state to another.

Standardization

One of the key benefits of using metrology in manufacturing is the increase in standardization across a range of different companies. Processes such as geometric metrology are key for ensuring that parts from around the world fit together and use the same system of measurements.

Cost Reduction

One of the most important benefits of using standardized metrological systems is the reduction in costs for manufacturing companies. Redesign costs for any given product range between 2.1% and 21.5%, so standardizing your measurements against those of external suppliers is essential. Standardized measurements mean initial designs are accurate within a high tolerance, avoiding costly redesign and remanufacture.