What does MQD mean in GENERAL

The Measurement Quality Division (MQD) is an organization within the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST) that is responsible for developing and maintaining standards and best practices related to measurement quality. MQD also works to ensure that measurements used in industry, science, and commerce are accurate, reliable, and traceable to the International System of Units (SI).

MQD engages in a wide range of activities to promote accuracy in measurements and help ensure their traceability to SI. These include developing standards for use in calibrating instruments, conducting research into measurement uncertainty, developing software tools to analyze complex measurement systems, training personnel on proper measurement techniques, publishing guidelines on good practices in metrology, and providing guidance on the proper use of calibration services.

To better understand the principles behind accurate measurements promoted by MQD it is recommended to explore our web pages as well as accessing publications such as “The Role of Measurement Uncertainty Analysis In Calibration” or “Verification & Validation Practices for Measuring Instruments”. Additionally attending our training courses will give you the necessary skills and knowledge needed when attempting to make precise measurements.

Yes! We have several programs set up to support industry partners who need assistance with measurement challenges. Our Metrology Assistance Program provides free consultation services from MQD experts who work closely with companies looking for ways they can improve their accuracy measurements. Our Dimensional Measurement Program assists engineers exploring new ways to precisely measure complex parts using digital 3-dimensional scanning systems. Finally, our Accuracy Verification Program helps businesses verify the accuracy claims made by instrument manufacturers on their products.

NIST maintains a searchable online database of organizations offering accredited calibration services around the United States at https://calibrationservicessearch.nist.gov/. This site allows you to locate nearby service providers who offer qualified testing services based on region or type of equipment being measured.

The NIST Handbook 44 provides detailed information about legal metrological regulations governing weights & measures including requirements for packaging & labeling goods intended for sale & commercial transactions involving intangible goods such as securities & digital content. The Handbook is available online at https://www-s.nist.gov/srmors/view_detail.cfm?srm=44.

No—MQD does not endorse any particular product or instrument manufacturer; however we do sponsor workshops and symposia that provide an opportunity for vendors to display their latest offerings for attendees interested in pursuing further research into metrology topics.

MQD conducts extensive research studies into ways that sophisticated algorithms can be applied to improve understanding of how accuracy degrades as distance from reference standards increase due to factors like environmental conditions or component aging. Specific areas explored include machine learning applications used for predictive maintenance of industrial instruments as well as uncertainty budgeting techniques used within scientific experiments.

MQD has published a number of documents relating specifically calibration practices such metric system conversion factors, reference material samples used in calibrations, adjustment methodologies, descriptions related new technologies such electronic reticulated scales. All these materials are made available through either via download from website, however some harder copies can be requested directly from lab personnel associated the division.

Yes – if you would like request a project be conducted by one our team members then please submit your request through contact page which located main webpage. We review all inquiries but prioritize those which demonstrate potential application towards benefit public good ahead those which seek solely commercial gain.