Comprehensive traceability for force metrology services

Dynamic Force measurement has many applications in industry, such as in material fatigue testing in developing internal combustion engines and drivetrains. However, only static calibration services are available: no metrological services or traceability chain exists for measuring continuous, dynamic forces. This traceability puzzle arises from influences such as alignment issues for gripping apparatus and temperature, plus there’s no practical equipment traceability chain for spring-loaded testing of vertical and transversal forces. 

The project established comprehensive traceable force calibration methods for force measurement applications in material and mechanical testing. New methods and transfer standards were developed for static, continuous and dynamic force calibrations, traceable to the SI. Force measuring devices were investigated, improved, developed and described by theoretical models in line with the ‘digital twin’ concept, simulating causes of uncertainty in force measurement. 

Broad adoption of uniform traceable calibration procedures would help harmonise global calibrations and testing results for superior quality, safety and innovation processes.