Skip to main content

NOTICE: Due to a lapse in annual appropriations, most of this website is not being updated. Learn more.

Form submissions will still be accepted but will not receive responses at this time. Sections of this site for programs using non-appropriated funds (such as NVLAP) or those that are excepted from the shutdown (such as CHIPS and NVD) will continue to be updated.

U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Vacuum technology considerations for mass metrology

Published

Author(s)

Patrick J. Abbott, Zeina J. Kubarych

Abstract

Vacuum weighing of mass artifacts eliminates the necessity of air buoyancy correction and its contribution to the measurement uncertainty. Vacuum weighing is also an important process in the experiments currently underway for the redefinition of the SI mass unit, the kilogram. Creating the optimum vacuum environment for mass metrology requires careful design and selection of construction materials, plumbing components, pumping, and gauging technologies. We review the vacuum technology required for mass metrology and suggest procedures and hardware for successful and reproducible operation.
Citation
Journal of Research (NIST JRES) -
Volume
116

Keywords

mass metrology, kilogram, vacuum, pressure, vacuum pump, pressure gauges

Citation

Abbott, P. and Kubarych, Z. (2011), Vacuum technology considerations for mass metrology, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=906874 (Accessed October 13, 2025)

Issues

If you have any questions about this publication or are having problems accessing it, please contact [email protected].

Created July 1, 2011, Updated November 14, 2018
Was this page helpful?