How To Navigate The 3 Pillars Of Measurement

Choosing the wrong equipment or ignoring proper calibration is like drowning in a sea of unseen problems. Poorly measured products can lead to massive recalls, damaged reputations, and even death. These mistakes can be avoided by addressing what is essential for a meaningful measurement, which involves following the three pillars of measurement.

Greg Cenker of IndySoft and Henry Zumbrun, president of Morehouse Instrument Company, focus on accurate measurement in their latest article in Quality Magazine. The article illuminates the critical importance of accurate measurement in decision-making processes. Learn how to navigate the three pillars of measurement in their article, The Definition of a Fool is a Drowning Man Who Tries to Keep It a Secret.

The article is here

Three Pillars Of Measurement:

1. Measurement Uncertainty: This involves how robust the evaluation of measurement uncertainty is as it helps support the next two pillars of measurement. This refers to the extent to which measurements can vary and provides an estimate of the confidence in a measurement result. It's crucial for decision-making as it helps users understand the reliability of a measurement.
2. Metrological Traceability: This involves ensuring that measurements are traceable to recognized standards, traceable to SI Units, creating a clear and documented chain of measurement. In some cases, metrological traceability is indirectly traceable to the SI (e.g. testing laboratory measurement uncertainty).Note: The attainment of metrological traceability in the measurements you conduct is contingent on the proper calculation of measurement uncertainty at every preceding tier leading up to the specific measurements being made
3. Measurement Decision Rules: Decision rules determine whether a measurement result is fit for its intended purpose considering measurement uncertainty (more justification for robust evaluation of measurement uncertainty). These rules should consider acceptable risks (depending on the application), ensuring that measurement results are used to make conformity decisions.

When correctly addressed, these pillars ensure high confidence in measurement results.

Greg Cenker is Senior Metrologist and Calibrations Product Manager at IndySoft.

Companies worldwide rely on Morehouse for accuracy and speed. The company turns around equipment in 7-10 business days so customers can return to work quickly and save money.

The York, PA-based company provides force and torque measurement products and services worldwide.