From 25 to 27 October 2011 the China Metrology Association held its first seminar with the topic “Measurement as a tool for Industrial Modernization”. As one of the leading and innovative measurement institutes in the world, NMi was invited to present their vision on Industrial Modernization and the role metrology institutes can play in the ongoing world of innovation.
NMi and China
The longstanding relationship of NMi with the Chinese market started in 1999 when NMi signed one of the first Mutual Recognition Arrangements with the Chinese Government (AQSIQ) on the acceptance of OIML-reports.
With that in mind NMi explained in their presentation the role of metrology in new social developments and, more specifically for the Chinese audience, the best way to enter the European market. Examples from different markets illustrated the best route to market for manufacturers. In a broader view the need for accurate measurement was addressed by introducing some new developments in oil and gas flow measurement of which EuroLoop is one of the key drivers.
Technical innovations ask for innovations in metrology
A weighing scale of today does not have much to do with the weighing scales that were on the market 15 years ago. Only five years ago a fuel dispenser could deliver diesel or petrol and sometimes LPG. A fuel dispenser these days can also deliver energy! Not to fill up your tank, but to charge your batteries! This type of social development also demands new developments in measurement. It plays an important and essential role.
The innovations for new energy sources like wind, solar, new transport of gas, LNG or CNG demand and acknowledge the need for accurate measurement. The same goes for environmental and safety issues like speed meters and exhaust gas analyzers.
It was recently shown: nothing travels faster than the speed of light, but scientists at CERN Switzerland have found out that tiny particles called neutrinos, can perhaps travel faster than light. The main question that arises here of course is: How did you measure that!
Innovation in metrology, opportunities for technology
Besides type approval issues, the unique calibration facility EuroLoop gave the public an insight as to how innovation of measurement can also be a support for better, more accurate measurement, saving millions of Euros in gas or liquid flow. This also has a positive influence in environmental issues like exhaust gas, CO2 reduction and less waste of energy resources.
The small-scale LNG installation developed by VSL was also recognized as a unique invention to support the market in the accurate measurement of liquefied gas.
The seminar made clear that the strong relationship between metrology associations worldwide is a necessary tool to support the industry to expand their markets and growth in innovative measurement solutions.
