Metrology is the description of the process to establish weights and measures as the basis for accurate measurements worldwide. To measure anything accurately - hence to obtain a measurement result or assign a value that is as true, correct or exact as possible - and for this measurement to be repeated anywhere in the world and yield an accurate result, a system of units such as the International System of Units, the SI, is needed. In order to establish such a system, a system of quantities, including a set of equations defining the relations between those quantities, must be established. Corresponding units must then be defined as a measure of the quantities.

The units must be unique and provide a sound theoretical basis upon which the most accurate and reproducible measurements can be made.

Panellists highlighted the importance of calibration to ensure that equipment used in the manufacturing processes measures accurately very time. They also discussed the need for traceability which is becoming more and more a requirement when supplying products on the international market.

Metrological traceability is defined as ’’the property of the result of a measurement or the value of a standard whereby it can be related to stated references, usually national or international standards, through an unbroken chain of comparisons, all having stated uncertainties.” The level of traceability establishes the level of comparability of the measurement: whether the result of a measurement can be compared to the previous one, a measurement result a year ago, or to the result of a measurement performed anywhere else in the world. 

The panellists

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