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In May 2019, revised definitions of four of the base units of the SI will come into force.There redefinition of the “Kilogram” ensures a stable definition for the unit kilogram.However it also calls for explaining the background and benefits of this revision.
METTLER TOLEDO is helping users to understand it betterwith a free White Paper “Redefinition of 1 kg”.
Greifensee, Switzerland—December 1, 2018—In 1889, the first General Conference of Weights and Measures (GCPM) defined the unit kilogram based upon the mass of the International Prototype Kilogram (IPK), known as the “Paris kilogram”.
In November 2018, GCPM is expected to formally adopt the new definition and it will be practically implemented from May 2019.
The kilogram was the last measurement unit of the International System of Units(SI) to be defined by a man-made physical body, namely an artefact. However, the problem with this definition is that this physical body, although intended to have a stable mass, actually changes its mass over time. Since this body itself is the reference for all mass measurements, this change cannot be determined by any measurement.
From World Metrology Day 2019 (May 20) onwards, the new definition will be in force and the kilogram will be defined in terms of a combination of fundamental constants: the Planck constant, h, which is stable and universally accessible. Until that point in time, h was measured directly linked to the IPK. However, from this date, the definition simply changes its direction. This also implies that the change of definition will not introduce any (step) change in the moment of switching.
This major reexamination of the SI since its foundation in 1960 may be perceived as ground-shaking to the weighing world.However, the goal of this redefinition is to ensure long-term stability and traceability of the unit for mass by making it independent of the material artefact, without affecting calibration or measurements.
Stay ahead of the changes and learn more by downloading a free White Paper “Redefinition of 1 kg” now.
About METTLER TOLEDO
METTLER TOLEDO is a leading global supplier of precision instruments and services. The Company is the world’s largest manufacturer and marketer of weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial and food retailing applications. METTLER TOLEDO also holds top-three market positions in several related analytical instruments and is a leading provider of automated chemistry systems used in drug and chemical compound discovery and development. In addition, the Company is the world’s largest manufacturer and marketer of metal detection and other end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging and holds a leading position in certain process analytics applications. Additional information about METTLER TOLEDO can be found at www.mt.com
