Course Content

Physical Metrology / Calibration Courses

Introduction

Metrology (from Ancient Greek metron (measure) and logos (study of)) is the science of measurement.  Metrology includes all theoretical and practical aspects of measurement

The word metrology is derived from the Greek word `μετρον', `metron': to measure.  It was originally used to describe precise measurement of linear dimensions of an object and many of the earlier (post-war) engineering textbooks make extensive use of the term.  It is therefore hardly surprising that the SI unit of length, the metre, is also derived from the same Greek word `metron'.  During the late fifties and early sixties the word became increasingly broadened in its meaning and it was used as a general descriptor for all types of precise measurement.  Other stems were compounded with it in order to describe this and to form sub-sets.  Phrases such as `length metrology', `electrical metrology', `quantum metrology' etc. gradually came into common use.

Calibration is the process of establishing the relationship between a measuring device and the units of measure. This is done by comparing a device or the output of an instrument to a standard having known measurement characteristics.

For many operations the quality of the calibration needs to be known and is quantified by an uncertainty estimate for the calibration. This is so important for the scientific community and manufacturing operations that it has been proposed that an evaluation of the measurement uncertainty was added as part of the calibration process

From the early 1980’s continuing up until the present time the provision of formal training has rested on institutions outside of the formal tertiary education system. First the the National Calibration Service (NCS), then the National Laboratory Accreditation System and subsequently the National Laboratory Association (NLA) have provided this very necessary and sought after training.

As a result of the changes made to the education system over the past 14 yeas the NLA has put together a recommended program in order to provide a logical process for achieving competency in the laboratory.  [See guide document]

Calibration laboratories cover many fields which can logically be broken up into the following: (Select hyperlink to view course document where applicable).

General requirements
Module 1:  Measurement Systems
Module 2:  Methods / Procedures and Report Writing
Module 3:  Estimation of Uncertainty of Measurement (Physical)
Module 4:  Statistical Process Control

Electrical and Temperature
Electrical (DCLF) Part 1
Electrical (DCLF) Part 2
Temperature Part 1
Temperature Part 2
Time and Frequency
Radio Frequency

Mechanical
Mass
Dimensional Part 1
Dimensional Part 2
Pressure
Force, Torque and Hardness
Flow
Coordinate Measuring Machines

Other
Sterilizer and Autoclave

Analytical Courses

Introduction

Most analysts working in analytical laboratories have either completed a National Diploma (3 years) or a Degree in one of the Sciences at either a University of Technology or a traditional University.  The need in this area is to supplement various aspects not necessarily dealt with by the tertiary training.

For hands on (practical) skills the NLA have the following courses: (Select hyperlink to view course document where applicable).

General
Module 1: Measurement Systems
Module 2: Methods / Procedures and Report Writing
Module 3: Estimation of Uncertainty of Measurement (Analytical)
Module 4: Statistical Process Control

Quality Assurance
Micro QA (Water and Food)
Basic Analytical Techniques

Other
Sterilizer and Autoclave
XRD

NEWS

5-2-2010 T&M 2010 Call for Papers   11-1-2010 NLA Course Schedule for 2010   15-1-2010 Water Micro Scheme - Submit test results   26-10-2009 Certification Scheme for Metrologists MetCert   1-10-2009 View T&M 2009 Papers   1-10-2009 Employment Opportunities