The new kilogram definition and its implications for high-precision mass tolerance classes

Published

August 26, 2013

Author(s)

Zeina J. Kubarych

Abstract

The SI unit of mass, the kilogram, is the only remaining artifact definition in the seven fundamental quantities of the SI system. It will be redefined in terms of the Planck constant as soon as certain experimental conditions recommended by the Consultative Committee for Mass and Related Quantities (CCM) are met. The redefinition will increase the uncertainties that National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) pass on to customers via artifact dissemination, which could have an impact on the reference standards that are used by secondary calibration laboratories if certain weight tolerances are adopted for use. This paper will compare the legal metrology requirements for precision mass calibration laboratories after the kilogram is redefined, with the current capabilities based on the International Prototype Kilogram (IPK) realization of the kilogram.

Citation

Journal of Research (NIST JRES) - 118.016

Report Number

118.016

NIST Pub Series

Journal of Research (NIST JRES)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

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DOI Link

Keywords

mass, kilogram, OIML, metrology

Citation

Kubarych, Z. (2013), The new kilogram definition and its implications for high-precision mass tolerance classes, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/jres.118.016 (Accessed October 8, 2025)