Notes on Measurement Engineering
1. Introduction
Definition: Measurement is the process of determining the magnitude of a quantity by
comparing it with a standard.
Engineering Measurement: Application of measurement techniques in engineering to
ensure accuracy, quality, and performance.
Importance:
o Quality control
o Design validation
o Process monitoring
o Safety & reliability
2. Basic Terms
Measurand – Quantity to be measured (e.g., length, force).
Accuracy – Closeness of measured value to true value.
Precision – Repeatability/consistency of results.
Sensitivity – Ratio of output signal to input signal.
Resolution – Smallest change in input that can be detected.
Calibration – Comparison with standard to ensure accuracy.
Error – Difference between measured and true value.
3. Types of Errors
Systematic Errors: Due to instrument imperfection, environmental effects, or observation
bias.
Random Errors: Due to unpredictable causes (e.g., noise, fluctuations).
Gross Errors: Human mistakes in reading/recording.
Error Reduction Methods: Calibration, averaging, environmental control, automation.
4. Standards of Measurement
Primary Standards – Maintained at National/International labs.
Secondary Standards – Derived from primary standards.
Working Standards – Used in labs/industries for daily use.
5. Measuring Instruments
(A) Mechanical Instruments
Simple, robust, no power needed.
Examples: Vernier calipers, Micrometer, Dial gauges.
(B) Electrical Instruments
Faster, suitable for dynamic measurement.
Examples: Voltmeter, Ammeter, Wattmeter.
(C) Electronic Instruments
High sensitivity, digital display, automation.
Examples: Digital Multimeter, CRO, Spectrum analyzer.
6. Transducers
Definition: A device that converts one form of energy into another (often into electrical
signal).
Classification:
o Active (self-generating: thermocouple, piezoelectric).
o Passive (require external source: strain gauge, LVDT).
Characteristics: Linearity, sensitivity, range, stability, dynamic response.
7. Common Measurement Systems
Length: Vernier caliper, Micrometer, Slip gauges, Optical instruments.
Mass/Weight: Balances, Load cells.
Force & Torque: Strain gauge, Proving ring, Torque meter.
Displacement: LVDT, Potentiometer.
Velocity & Acceleration: Tachometer, Accelerometer.
Pressure: Manometer, Bourdon gauge, Piezoelectric sensors.
Flow: Venturimeter, Orifice meter, Rotameter.
Temperature: Thermocouples, RTDs, Thermistors, Pyrometers.
8. Data Acquisition & Processing
Signal Conditioning: Amplification, Filtering, A/D conversion.
Recording: Analog recorders, Digital storage.
Analysis: Statistical methods, error analysis, computer-based processing.
9. Modern Trends
Smart Sensors – With inbuilt processing & communication.
Non-Contact Measurement – Laser, Ultrasonic, Optical methods.
Computerized Measurement Systems – LabVIEW, MATLAB-based data logging.
IoT & Industry 4.0 – Real-time measurement for automation.
10. Applications in Engineering
Manufacturing (CNC inspection, quality control).
Civil Engineering (strain measurement in structures).
Electrical Engineering (power measurement).
Mechanical Engineering (vibration, stress analysis).
Aerospace/Automobile (wind tunnel testing, telemetry).
