The manufacturing sector is the leading economic sector in the US, with processing and marketing sectors making up over half of all manufacturing jobs. The industry is responsible for much of America’s GDP and exports. To make sure that the manufacturing process produces products that are consistent in quality, precise measurements are taken at multiple points throughout the manufacturing process to ensure accuracy. This is why metrology has revolutionized manufacturing worldwide, becoming vital to modern-day industry and everyday life.
Metrology is the science of measurement. In modern times, the science of measurement provides manufacturers with precision. Without metrology in manufacturing, there could be no uniformity in products manufactured. Metrology has helped standardize measurements in aerospace, automotive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other industries. Here we will discuss three fascinating ways that metrology has revolutionized manufacturing.
1. Medical Industry
Medical metrology has been responsible for significant medical advances throughout the years. Prosthetic devices, like artificial limbs and other medical devices, are often manufactured using metrology to ensure precision. Without metrologists, these devices could only be manufactured using trial and error, which is highly costly and wasteful of resources.
The accuracy that metrologists allow manufacturers to achieve in the medical industry has allowed objects to be surgically implanted or surgically removed with precision, preventing serious injury or death. These advancements have improved the quality of life.
2. Aerospace Industry
The aerospace industry is widely known for its incredibly advanced technology and groundbreaking research. To ensure that materials used in aerospace manufacturing are consistent, precise measurements must be taken. Metrology equipment in the aerospace industry provides manufacturers with more precise levels of control.
Airplanes and other such vehicles are huge machines, and the modern ones are flown with great precision. This level of control is only possible because metrology is used to measure parts down to the micrometer. Metrology has also helped aerospace manufacturers create more efficient airplanes by measuring fuel consumption, allowing further efficiency improvements in the future.
3. Consumer Goods Industry
The products we use daily are manufactured using various parts and pieces. If the parts were not created with precise measurements in mind, manufacturers would have no accurate way to ensure that the finished product would be as functional as it is supposed to be. The consumer goods industry relies on accuracy from the start.
Metrology has been able to ensure that products like cell phones, computers, and cars are made with high levels of precision. It is also used to test the work of manufacturers and spot any defects to prevent faulty products from reaching consumers. If metrology was not used, there would be a significantly higher chance of manufacturing defects reaching the marketplace.
Metrology has revolutionized the world in countless ways that we are unaware of. Without the ability to take precise measurements, the world would be very different. This subject is fascinating, which only adds to its appeal. Take some time to explore this topic further and consider how it may apply to your future career goals and personal life.