Automated Piston Gauge Calibration System. Issue 1 (3rd April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Scherschligt, Julia; Cross, Christina D.; Quintavalle, John; Yang, Yuanchao; Driver, R. Gregory; Schlatter, Katie; Olson, Douglas A.
• Is Part Of: NCSL International measure. Volume 12:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 42
• Page End: 45
• Publication Date: 2018-04-03
• Subjects: Physical measurements -- Periodicals; Physical measurements; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 530.8
• DOI: 10.1080/19315775.2017.1335587
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1931-5775

Abstract

Abstract: Piston gauges or pressure balances are important primary standards for the realization of the SI unit of pressure, the pascal. Because of their long-term stability, they are also used as secondary or working standards in the dissemination of the pressure scale. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) operates and maintains a calibration service for these devices, and has recently undertaken a modernization effort. Following a preliminary investigation into the feasibility of using transducers as instantaneous in-situ transfer standards, we now present the results of a near fully automated calibration system. This effort includes the design, building, and validation of an automated gas-handling manifold, and the development of a new software suite. The new system demonstrates an expanded uncertainty on the order of 1 in 10 5, comparable to the traditional system, but offers a five-fold decrease in calibration turnaround time.