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JlTED STATES
IRTMENT OF
1MERCE
Ligation
MAY xd 1971 NBS TECHNICAL NOTE 577
L<"°'ca

W*tis o«

Method of Calibrating Weights

for Piston Gages

U.S.
JVRTMENT
OF
)MMERCE
National
Bureau
of
ndards

S71
n
 NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

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\m bureau of stanmks

10
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Maurice H. Stans, Secretary
NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS • Lewis M. Branscomb, Director

>o , ^7 7

*
Yi
NBS TECHNICAL NOTE 577
ISSUED MAY 1971

Nat. Bur. Stand. (U.S.), Tech. Note 577, 54 pages (May 1971)
CODEN: NBTNA

Method of Calibrating Weights

for Piston Gages

H. E. Aimer

Optical Physics Division

Institute for Basic Standards
National Bureau of Standards
Washington, D.C. 20234

NBS Technical Notes are designed to supplement the

Bureau's regular publications program. They provide a
means for making available scientific data that are of
transient or limited interest. Technical Notes may be
listed or referred to in the open literature.

For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C, 20402.
(Order by SD Catalog No. C 13.46:577). Price 55 cents.
Stock No. 0303 0849
 Contents

Page
1. Introduction 1

2. Calibration Procedures 2

2.1 Preparation of Weights for Test 2

2.2 Comparison of Weights being Tested with Standards 3

2 . Data Reduction 4

2.4 Uncertainty of Value of Weights 6

2.5 Checks for Blunders or Gross Errors 7

3. Weighing Methods 8

3.1 Direct Weighing 9

3.2 Direct-Reading Weighing 9

3.3 Substitution Weighing - One-Pan Constant Load Balances. . . 9

3.4 Substitution Weighing - Equal-Arm Balances 12

3.5 Transposition Weighing 13

4. Computation of Mass Value of Weight being Calibrated 18

4.1 Application of Corrections for Standard and Buoyant

Effect 18

4.2 Use of "Transfer Standard" 19

4.3 Added Weights 19

5. Air Density 24

References 25

Figures 26

Appendix 42

in
 Method of Calibrating Weights for Piston Gages

H. E. Aimer

Generally weights for piston gages have odd

denominations that are often not readily calibrated by
intercomparison methods. Therefore, these weights are
frequently calibrated by direct comparison methods.
This paper presents direct comparison methods for
calibrating piston gage weights for use with both
equal-arm balances and single-pan balances. Methods of
estimating the uncertainty of the values obtained are
given. Also included are methods of checking for
blunders or gross errors.

Keywords: Balance; buoyancy; calibration; standards;

substitution weighing; transposition weighing; true
mass; uncertainty; value.

1. Introduction

The method of calibrating

pressure gage (piston gage) weights
described herein is adequate for most purposes. The method employs simple
weighing designs and includes using corrections for the standards and the
buoyant effect of the atmosphere. Aside from blunders, such as
misrecording the balance indication or the weights used, these account for
the major sources of error in the mass value of the weights.

The comparisons may be made on any balance whose precision is adequate

for the requirements of the weights being tested. If the precision of the
balance is not known, the balance can be evaluated by tests such as des-
cribed in ASTM's "Standard Methods of Testing Single-Arm Balances" [1]*.

Suitable mass standards, with established values or corrections, and

appropriate uncertainties are required. For some purposes, the
manufacturer's stated compliance with a class or other tolerance may be
sufficient. In other cases it may be convenient to calibrate the built-in
weights. Calibration procedures, such as are described in "Testing a
Quick Weighing Balance" [2] or the ASTM's "Standard Methods of Testing
Single-Arm Balances" may be used. The various dial settings may be
[1]
calibrated according to the method for calibrating dial-controlled weights
described on pages 742/709 of "Testing a Quick Weighing Balance" [2].

Calibration procedures for use with both equal-arm balances and one-
pan constant- load balances are described. For one-pan constant-load

Figures in brackets indicate the literature references on page 25.

1
balances, both single and double substitution weighing methods using the
built-in weights as standards, as well as substitution methods using known
weights as standards, are described. For equal-arm balances, both the
substitution weighing and the transposition methods of weighing are
described. The computations are held to a minimum and will give the true
mass value, Mm in the equation

Fe = %(1 Pa
- p^)v . ..
+ M
„ - p|)jkg + YC,
Pa,
f (1 L

equation (10) of "Reduction of Data for Piston Gage Pressure Measurements"

[3 ] as well as an appropriate estimate of the uncertainty of this value.
Each weight is compared directly with a standard or group of standards of
approximately the same mass as the weight being tested, by any of the
methods described in Section 3. If the standards and the weights being
tested are made of materials having approximately or nearly the same
density, the errors due to buoyant effects are minimized. Each comparison
will involve either duplicate measurements of the difference between the
weight under test and the standard, as in double substitution weighing, or
the same difference will be measured in each of the comparisons, as the
sensitivity difference in single transposition weighing. These differences
can be used to compute an estimate of the precision of measurement.

2. Calibration Procedures

The calibration of weights includes preparation of the weights for

test, their comparison with standards, and data reduction. Each of these
phases of the calibration is treated.

2.1 Preparation of Weights for Test

The weights are prepared for test as follows:

a. Unpack the weights carefully, being sure not to overlook any

of the small weights which may be a part of the set.

b. Clean the weights by wiping with a soft cloth of nonabrasive

material such as high quality cheesecloth. Solvents can be
used to remove any foreign material that is not readily
removed by wiping. Care must be exercised so that only
foreign material is removed. Be certain that the solvents
used will not injure the weights.

c. Place the weights and the standards in or near the balance

so that they will come to temperature equilibrium before the
weighings are made.

d. An information or summary sheet is prepared giving the

following information: (See Sample Summary Sheet, Figure 1)
 1. Identify the weights to be tested by the owner,
set designation, and test number if one is used.
The identification of the instrument of which the
weights are a part should also be given.

2. The material of which the weights are made and

their density.

3. List all of the weights in such a manner that,

after calibration, the mass values found for them
may be entered next to the appropriate weight.

4. Any other information needed to make a complete

record of the test.

2.2 Comparison of Weights being Tested with Standards

Weighing Method - This suggested calibration procedure is based on the
double substitution method of weighing (see Section 3) because it can be
used with either one-pan constant-load balances or with equal-arm balances.
Other weighing methods (Section 3) may be used where desirable or where the
double substitution method is impracticable.

Standards - Generally the weights for piston gages have odd denomina-
tions not usually found in ordered sets of weights. Hence, the standard
for a given weight may consist of more than one known weight. The buoyant
effect of the atmosphere and associated errors can be minimized if, as far
as practicable, the material of the known weights used for standards is of
the same nearly the same density as the material of which the weights
or
being tested are made.

Sensitivity Weight - The mass of the sensitivity weight used depends

in part on the on-scale range of the balance and in part on the mass dif-
ferences between the weights being compared. The sensitivity weight should
be as large as practicable. Its mass may be from one-fifth to one-half the
on-scale range of the balance and it should be at least twice as large as
the largest difference between the masses being compared. It may be
necessary to trim one of the weights by adding small known weights to it to
bring the difference between the masses to within these limits.

Comparison with Standard - Each weight of the set being calibrated is

compared by the double substitution method (or other suitable methods) with
"known" weights whose total mass is nominally equal to the mass of the
weight being tested.

In sets having two or more weights of the same denomination, it is

sometimes convenient to select one of the duplicate weights to be the
"standard" for calibrating the other weights of the same denomination.
This weight will be referred to as the "transfer standard". The "transfer
standard" is calibrated with the "known" weight as mentioned above.
 ,

Environmental and Other Data Required - The date and time the work was
done as well as the name of the observer should be entered on the observa-
tion sheet. The temperature, relative humidity, and barometric pressure at
the time the weighings are made are also recorded on the observation sheet,
so that buoyancy corrections can be computed and made, as required.

2.3 Data Reduction

Computation of Difference Between the Weight Being Calibrated and the

Standard - The difference between the weight being calibrated and the
standard is given by the difference in scale divisions between the balance
indications for the weight under test and the standard. The method of com-
puting this difference and of converting it from scale divisions to mass
units is given for each method of weighing with the description of that
method in Section 3. But for the following discussion, it will be assumed
that the difference is in or has been converted to mass units.

The difference is expressed as follows:

(W - S) = a
x
where Wx is the weight under test

S is the standard; it may consist of one or more

weights

"a" is the difference between W and S in mass units.

Application of Correction for Standard - The value of the standard may

be expressed either as one number or as a nominal value and a correction
as follows:

Mass Value of Std. = Norn. Value + Correction

In general, the "Mass Value" of the standard means its True Mass value and
its correction means its True Mass Correction unless otherwise indicated.
The computation of the value of the weight being tested, W , is further
described in Section 4.
 When the value for S, whether expressed as one number or as a nominal
value and a correction, is in terms of true mass, as it should be, the com-
puted value of Wx will be its true mass value within certain limits which
depend on the relative density of Wv and S (see Table 1) . If S and W„ have
the same or nearly the same density, the value found is for all practical
purposes the true mass value. If the correction for S is known only in
terms of apparent mass vs brass, as may be the case for some calibrated
sets of standards, true mass corrections must be computed. This
computation is as follows:

S TM - S AM + Pn (V S " V
where S. M is the apparent mass vs brass value of the weight, that is
AM the nominal value + the apparent mass correction.

S_,
M is the true mass value
of the weight

o is the density of normal air (1.2 mg/cm 3 at 20°C)

n
is the volume of an equivalent mass of normal brass at 20°C
1

V
B
V is the volume of the standard at 20 °C.

The true mass correction is:

Correction = S - Nominal Value
TM
Buoyancy Correction - Buoyancy corrections are needed to take into ac-
count the difference in the buoyant effect of the air on weights of
materials having different densities [4], especially where the densities of
the materials are markedly different. It is a good practice to always
compute (see Section 4) , at least roughly, the magnitude of the correction
to establish the order of magnitude with reference to the desired accuracy.
If the correction is not significant it can be ignored.

If the volume of the weight is not known it may be computed from the
mass and density relationship:

«wx
Vol w = -
v
x
ET
wx
where Mu
w is the total mass of the weight, and
x
Dw is its density at 20 °C.

Similarly the volume of the standard is:

Ms
voi s -
»j
where Mg is the mass of the standard, and

Ds is its density at 20°C.

*By definition the density of normal brass is 8.4 g/cm at 0°C; that is
3

approximately 8.3909 g/cm at 20°C.

3

5
 :

2.4 Uncertainty of Value of Weights

It is presumed that the weighings are being carried out by means of a
measurement process whose parameters (precision, possible systematic
errors, etc.) are known and sufficient evidence is collected to insure that
the process is in a state of statistical control.* For each method of
weighing there will be available a standard deviation to be associated with
a single measurement of mass difference. This standard deviation will be
based on considerable history and would be used in preference to a standard
deviation based on the results of say one day's work. Such a value if
available provides the means for judging whether or not to accept that
day's measurements as being in control.

Uncertainty of Values Found for Weights - The uncertainty of the mass

value of the weights consists of two parts; the uncertainty due to random
errors of measurement and the systematic uncertainty due to the uncertainty
in the value of the standard. The limit of the uncertainty due to random
errors of measurement may be taken to be three times the standard
deviation, <j t where a is the standard deviation of the process.
Therefore

Uncertainty of value = 3o + uncertainty of standards.

Uncertainty figures or statements are valid only if the measurement process

was in a state of statistical control at the time the measurement to which
the uncertainty figure applies was made. Therefore, every uncertainty
figure associated
with a mass value must be backed up by data adequate to
determine that the weighing process was in a state of statistical control
at the time the measurements used to determine that value were made.

*For a discussion of the procedures for estimating the parameters of the

mass measurement process and for maintaining surveillance of the
measurement process, see NBS Technical Note 28 8, Measurement Philosophy of
the Pilot Program for Mass Measurement, by P. E. Pontius; and NBS Monograph
103, Realistic Uncertainties and the Mass Measurement Process, An
Illustrated Review, by P. E. Pontius and J. M. Cameron.
 In many cases the
allowable imprecision is so much greater than the
expected performance of the mass measurement process, based on previous
measurements, that the measurement error could not exceed the allowable
imprecision without some evident malfunctioning of the balance. In those
cases it may be assumed that the results of the measurements are adequate if
the balance appears to be working properly; but a formal uncertainty
statement would not be made.

2.5 Checks for Blunders or Gross Errors

It is usually desirable to make some kind of check for at least gross

errors in the values being reported. This is especially true where the
standard consists of several weights because a weight may be overlooked
when recording those used.

Checks by Comparing Values - In sets having several weights of the

same denomination, one form of check is to compare the values obtained for
weights having the same nominal value. If the value for one of these
duplicate weights is markedly different from the others, this may indicate
that the value is incorrect. For weights such as the "transfer standard"
used as the standard for other weights of the same denomination, of which
repeat weighings are made, the agreement of the results of the repeated
weighings constitutes an acceptable check on the value.

Check by Weighing Groups - This kind of check cannot be used with

large weights whose mass capacity of the largest balance
is near the
available. It is useful for weights which can be divided into groups not
exceeding the capacity of the available balances. The procedure is:

a. Divide the weights into convenient groups.

b. Compare each group with appropriate standards.

c. Compare the value found for the group with the sum of the
values for the individual weights making up the group. They
should agree within the uncertainty of the measurements.

It is necessary to use some judgment in dividing the weights into

groups. Small weights should not be grouped with large weights.
 3. Weighing Methods

Any one of the weighing methods - direct

four direct-reading , ,

substitution , or transposition - may be used for calibrating piston gage

weights. The weighing method used depends in part on the balances and
weights available, in part on the requirements of the job at hand, and in
part on the preference of the person performing
Measurements the test.
made by either the substitution or transposition weighing method require
more effort, but are in general more precise than those made by either the
direct or the direct-reading weighing methods. The direct and direct-
reading weighing methods are generally used only where relatively imprecise
measurements can be tolerated and where only the minimum effort possible is
justified.
The following comparison of the direct weighing method with the single
transposition weighing method and direct-reading method with the single
substitution method gives an indication of the differences in precision.
Any weighing requires at least two observations. A direct weighing
requires a no-load reading and a load reading. If the standard deviation
of the mass measurement process, for one observation, is " O " (random
component of the uncertainty is 3a) , then the standard deviation of two
observations combined is a^2 (random component of the uncertainty of the
two observations combined is 3ov2) . In addition there must be added the
uncertainty due to the inequality of the arms. This may vary from a few
parts in a million to one or two parts in ten thousand, depending on the
condition and quality of the balance. In contrast to this is the
transposition method which also requires two observations, but since both
observations are measurements of the same thing, the difference between the
unknown weight and the standard (see Section 3.5, page 13), the standard
deviation of this difference is =- (the random component of the
30\V2 \

uncertainty of the difference is -j=-\ . In transposition weighing the

inequality of the arms drops out and does not become a part of the
uncertainty. Thus, if the same balance is used for both methods, the
uncertainty of the direct weighing method is twice that of the
transposition method plus the uncertainty due to the inequality of the
arms.
 ,

Both a direct-reading weighing and a single substitution weighing

re-
quire two observations; therefore the random portion of the uncertainty is
the same for both methods. In the direct-reading method the masses of the
built-in weights are
considered to be equal their nominal mass values (if
corrections are applied it is no longer a direct-reading device) , and the
reading scale is assumed to have a one to one ratio with the indicated mass
units. In a substitution weighing the weight being calibrated is compared
with weights whose mass values are known and the reading scale is calibrated
as a part of the substitution weighing. The uncertainty of the direct-
weighing method is greater than the uncertainty of the single substitution
weighing method by the uncertainty due to considering the nominal value of
the built-in weights to be their actual value plus the uncertainty due to
any reading scale error.

3.1 Direct Weighing

The equal-arm balance is the only type of balance that it is practical
to use for the direct weighing method. First read and record the no-load
also called the zero load, indication. Then place the weight being tested
on one of the pans, say the left pan; put sufficient known weights on the
other pan to just bring the balance to an equilibrium condition such that
the indication is the same as the no-load indication. The total mass of
the known weights is the mass of the weight being tested.

3.2 Direct-Reading Weighing

The direct-reading weighing method requires a balance that is capable

of directly indicating the weight of the load on the load receiving element
in mass units. Most one-pan balances meet this requirement. With no-load
on the pan, adjust the balance so that it reads zero; place the weight
being tested on the pan and by proper manipulation of the controls bring
the balance into a condition of equilibrium; read and record the
indication. Since this is a direct-reading balance, the indication is the
mass of the weight being tested, within the capability of the balance.

3.3 Substitution Weighing - One-Pan Constant Load Balances

Two substitution weighing modes for one-pan constant load balances are
described. One uses known weights from an ordered set of weights as stand-
ards; the other mode uses the balance's built-in weights as standards. The
method of using the built-in weights for standards is the same in principle
as that using the usual known weights for standards though it may appear to
 .

be different. With this method the built-in weights, removed from the
total load on the beam to bring the balance beam to a position of
equilibrium when a weight is placed on the pan, are the standards for that
weight. The dial settings indicate which weights have been removed from
the load.

To avoid negative balance indications or having to change dial

settings during a given weighing, it is convenient to place a small tare
weight on the balance pan and leave it on during the entire series of
weighings. A weight of about one-fifth the full scale may be used.

3.3.1 Single Substitution Weighing - Using Known Weights from an Ordered

Set as Standards (see Figure 2a for example)
Observation 1 - Place the weight being tested on the balance pan along
with the tare weight. Release the balance, read and record the
indication. This indication is designated I x .

Observation 2 - Remove the weight being tested, but not the tare
weight; and put enough standards on the pan to bring the balance into
approximately the same position of equilibrium as it had when the
weight being tested was on the pan, without changing the dial setting.
Read and record the indication. This indication is designated I 2 .

Observation 3 - Place a sensitivity weight on the pan along with the

standards and the tare weight, if any. Read and record the
indication. This indication is designated I 3 .

The difference between the weight under test, W x , and the standards, S,
is:

WX - S - < J
1
" I 2>T^l7= a

where Ws is the mass of sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between ^and S in mass units.

3.3.2 Double Substitution Weighing - Using Known Weights from an Ordered

,and I of
Set as Standards (see Figure 2b for example).- Indications I 1# I
2 3

the double substitution weighing are obtained from observations 1, 2, and 3

of the double substitution weighing in the same manner as the corresponding

indications for single substitution weighing described above, Section
3.3.1. There is a fourth observation in double substitution weighing which
is described immediately below.

Observation 4 - Remove the standards from the pan, but leave the
sensitivity weight and tare weight on the pan. Put the weight being
tested on the pan with the sensitivity weight and tare weight. Read
and record the indication. This indication is designated 1^.

The difference between the weight under test, W x , and the standards, S,
is:

10
 I I" I 2 + X -- I W
3 s
w'x
v- ^ «
s
2 i7T17 = a

where Ws is the mass of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between \ and S in mass units.

3.3.3 Single Substitution Weighing One-pan Constant Load Balances Using
Built-in Weights for Standards. (See Figure 3a for example.)

Observation 1 » Place the weight being tested on the balance pan with
the small tare weight, and set the dials at the appropriate settings
for that weight. That is, the balance indication is "on scale" when
it is in equilibrium. Release the balance, if in equilibrium, record
the dial settings. The weights represented by the dial settings are
the standards for the weighing. Read and record the balance
indication. This indication is designated Ij.

Observation 2 - Remove the weight being tested from the pan, leaving
the tare weight: set the dials at "0". Release the balance; read and
record the indication. This is the reading with the standard on.
This indication is designated I .
2

Observation 3 - Place a sensitivity weight on the pan. Read and

record the indication. This indication is designated I .
3

The difference between the weight under test, W , and the standards, S,
x
(built-in weights indicated by dial settings in observation 1) is:

W
x - S
W„ (I,
1
- I,)
2
—=
I3- I2
a

where W is the mass of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between W and S in mass units.

3.3.4 Double Substitution Weighing One-Pan Constant Load Balances Using

Built-in Weights for Standards. (See Figure 3b for example) . - Indications
Ij , I2 1 and I3 of the double substitution weighing are obtained from
observations 1, 2, and 3 of the double substitution weighing in the same
manner ascorresponding indications for the single substitution
the
weighing described above* Section 3.3.3. There is a fourth observation
in double substitution weighing which is described immediately below.

Observation 4 - Place the weight being tested on the pan along with
the sensitivity weight and the tare weight. Set the dials to setting
used in observation 1. (This in effect removes the standards from the
load on the balance.) Read and record the indication. This
indication is designated 1^.

The difference between the weight under test, W , and the standards, S,
(the standards are the built-in weights indicated by the dial settings in
observations 1 and 4 above) is:
II" I 2 + I-" I3 Ws
w
x
_ 8m - I
2 I
3 2

11
where Wg is the mass of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between W and S in mass units.

3.4 Substitution Weighing - Equal-Arm Balances

When an equal-arm balance

substitution weighing the
is used for
weights being tested and the standards are interchanged on one of the pans
and a counterpoise weight placed on the other pan. The counterpoise weight
should have approximately the same mass as the weight being tested so that
the indicator will be "on scale" when the balance beam is in equilibrium.
For interchanging the weight being tested and the standard it is con-
venient to select which increasing increments of load give
the pan on
numerically increasing indications. When the reading-scale reads from left
to right, smallest numbers at the left end, adding weight to the left pan
increases the readings; conversely, when the reading-scale reads from right
to left adding weight to right pan increases the reading.

3.4.1 Single Substitution Weighing - Equal-arm Balance. (See Figure 4a for

example) . Assume that increased load on the left pan gives a numerically
larger reading.

Observation 1 - Place the weight being tested on the left pan and the
counterweight on the right pan. Release the balance, read and record
the indication. If the balance is undamped, turning points are read
and the rest point computed from them. l3l This indication is
designated I x .

Observation 2 - Remove the weight being tested and place enough known
weights, that is standards, on the pan to bring the balance beam to
approximately the same position of equilibrium as in observation 1.
Read and record the indication. This indication is designated I 2 .

Observation 3 - Add the sensitivity weight to that pan which will

bring the indicator towards or past the center of the reading-scale.
This indication is designated I .

The difference between the weight being tested, W x , and the standards,
S, is: w
Wx - S = (I,.- Ij, S = a
i - l2
3 |

where W is the mass of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between W x and S in mass units.

The absolute value of the sensitivity deflection, I 3- I 2 is used, that

is without regard to sign, as indicated by the symbol |I
3
- I2 |»

3.4.2 Double Substitution Weighing - Equal-arm Balance (see Figure 4b for

Indications i 1# I2 substitution weighing
, and I 3 of the double
are obtained from observations 1, 2, and 3 of the double substitution
weighing in the same manner as the corresponding indications for the single
substitution weighing described above, Section 3.4.1. The fourth observa-
tion of this double substitution weighing is described immediately below.
12
 . .

Observation 4 - Remove the standards from the left pan but leave the
sensitivity weight on pan. Put the weight being tested on the pan
with the sensitivity weight. Read and record the indication. This
indication is designated 1^.
The difference between the weight being tested, W , and the standards,
x
S, is:
I i- J + v: h ws
if- - s - 2
2 |l - I2 " a
3 |

where Wg is the mass of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between W x and S in mass units.

The absolute value of the sensitivity deflection, I 3- I2 , is used.

3.5 Transposition Weighing

Transposition Weighing - Transposition
weighing is done on two-pan
equal-arm balances. When this method of weighing is used counterpoise or
tare weights are not required. The weight being tested is placed on one
pan and the standard on the other pan; a reading is taken, then the weights
are transposed. Either single or double transposition weighing methods may
be used.

3.5.1 Single Transposition Weighing - Equal-arm Balance (see Figure 5a for

example)

Observation 1 - Place the weight being tested on one of the pans, say
the left pan, and standards on the other pan, the right pan. Adjust
the amount of known weight on the pan so that the indicator will be
"on scale" when the balance beam is in equilibrium. When the balance
beam is in equilibrium, read and record the indication. This
indication is designated Ij

Observation 2 - Remove the weights from their respective pans and

transpose them to the other pan. That is, the weight that was on the
left pan is put on the right pan and the weight on the right pan is
put on the left pan. Read and record indication. This indication is
designated I 2 .

Observation 3 - Add the sensitivity weight on the pan that will cause
the pointer to move towards or past the center of the reading scale.
Read and record the indication. This indication is designated I 3 .

The difference between the weight being tested, Wx , and the standard,
S» is: Ix- i2 w
W._ - S = --
x 2
a —
|I 3 -
t

I2 |

where W_s is the mass value of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between W x and S in mass units.

The absolute value of the sensitivity deflection, I 3 - I 2 , that is

without regard to sign, is used. Whether the weight being tested is
heavier or lighter than the standard can be ascertained from the direction
of motion of the indicator or the rules described on pages 16 and L"B.

13
3.5.2 Double Transposition Weighing - Equal-arm Balance (see Figure 5b for
example). Indications I 1# I 2 , and I 3 of the double transposition weighing
are obtained from observations 1, 2, and 3 of the double transposition
weighing in the same manner as the corresponding indications for the single
transposition weighing described above, Section 3.5.1. The fourth observa-
tion of the double transposition weighing is described immediately below.

Observation 4 - Remove the weights from their respective pans and

transpose them. Leave the sensitivity weight on the same pan that it
was in observation 3. This indication is designated 1^.

The difference between the weight being tested, W x , and the standard,
S, is:
i t - i 2+ i,- i 3 w
s
w
* "
s
5 ^^T - a

where Ws is the mass value of the sensitivity weight and

"a" is the difference between Wx and S in mass units.

The absolute value of the sensitivity deflection, I - I , that is

32
without regard to sign, is used. Whether the weight being tested is
heavier or lighter than the standard can be ascertained from the direction
of motion of the indicator or the rule described below may be applied.

3.5.3 Determining the sign of the difference between two weights being
compared in a transposition weighing - To find the sign of the difference
"a", between two weights being compared by transposition weighing, in the
expression:

W - S = a

Consider the following.

Example 1:

Obs. Load on Pans Balance

No. Left Right Indication

J o

1 W s Ii

2 s W 12

3 s+w s W 13

Observation is the measurement of the no-load or zero load equilibrium

position. Observation 1 is the weighing with the weights W and S on the
pans as indicated. Observation 2 is the weighing with the weights trans-
posed. Observation 3 is the sensitivity weighing. If we assume the

14
balance's zero load equilibrium position is constant and that the arms are
equal, then:

W - S = I, - I Q (D
is a measure of the difference between the weights W and S in scale divi-
sions. Similarly

S - W = I 2 - I (2 )

is also measure of the difference between the weights W and S in scale

a
divisions. We now have two measures of the difference between W and S.
Combining both measurements, we have:

W - S = Ii - Io (1)

S - w = I 2 - Io (2)

2W -2S = Ii-I -l2 + l0 (Sub. (2) from (1) (3)

Since the I 's cancel each other we can rewrite equation (3)

2W - 2S = I !
- 1 2
Xl lz
w - s =
I
= a' (4)

The expression W - S = —I-——

I J2
states the difference between the weights in
scale divisions. Since I drops out when the two halves of the transposi-
tion weighing are combined, it is not necessary to find the zero load equi-
librium position, Observation No. 0, The difference between W and S in
mass units is stated in equation (5)

W - S = V &
J
Z
x
3
W
- 1^
S = a (5)

Therefore, the complete transposition weighing requires only the three

weighings shown in the following example (Example 2)

Example 2:

Obs. Load on Pans Balance

No. Left Right Indication

1 W s Ii

2 S W I2

3 s+w s W *1

15
In Example 2, if we assume that the reading scale reads from left to right,
then since the sensitivity weight was added to the left pan we know that
w
the term m
I 3~
—
in the expression,
J2

I »- W
W - s = II » - a
2 I 3- I2

has a plus sign because I 3

is numerically greater than I 2 . Therefore the
sign for the difference "a" will depend on whether Ij or I 2 is greater; if
I j is greater, the sign is plus, and if I2 is greater, the sign is minus.
From the sign for the difference "a", we can ascertain whether W or S is
the heavier weight. When the sign is plus, we have:

W - S = a or W=S + a

and W is heavier than S.

When the sign is minus we have:

W - S = -a or W=S-a
and clearly S is heavier than W. Sometimes the sign for the difference is
not obvious and it may help to have rules for determining whether the sign
for the difference between the weights being compared is plus or minus.

There are two cases: Case I sensitivity weight added to load on left
pan; Case II sensitivity weight added to load on right pan. In each case
there are four possible combinations of plus and minus signs relating I1 ,

la and 13 of the transposition weighing in the computation of the differ-

ence "a" between the weights being compared. These possibilities together
with the appropriate sign are outlined below.

I. Sensitivity weight added on left pan.

a. Ij numerically greater than 12 , and 1

numerically greater than 1 2 , the sign for the
difference, "a" is plus (+)

b. I1
numerically greater than I 2 , and 1 3 numerically
smaller than I 2 , the sign for the difference, "a",
is minus (-)

c. I j numerically smaller than I 2 , but 1 3 numerically

greater than I 2 , the sign for the difference, "a",
is minus (-) .

d. 1 1
numerically smaller than 1 2, and I 3 numerically
smaller than I 2 , the sign for the difference, "a",
is plus (+)

16
 . . . ,

II. Sensitivity weight added on right pan.

a. I : numerically greater than I2 , and I 3 numerically

greater than I 2 , the sign for the difference,
"a" , is minus (-)

b. ~L\numerically greater than I2, but I3 numerically

smaller than I 2 , the sign for the difference "a"
is plus (+)

c. Ii numerically smaller than I2, but I 3 numerically

greater than I2, the sign for the difference, "a",
is plus (+)

d. Ii numerically smaller than I2, and 1 3 numerically

smaller than I2, the sign for the difference, "a",
is minus (-)

Stated symbolically

I. Sensitivity weight added on left pan

a. I x
>I 2 and I 3 >I 2 sign for "a" plus (+)

< sign for "a" minus

b. I
t
>I 2 and I
3
I2 (-)

c. I
x
<I 2
and 1
3
>I 2 sign for "a" minus (-)

d. Ij <I 2
and I
3
<I 2 sign for "a" plus (+)

II. Sensitivity weight added on right pan

a. I
1
>I 2
and I 3 >I 2 sign for "a" minus (-)

b. Ij >I 2 and I
3
<I 2 sign for "a" plus (+)

c. I
x
<I 2 and I 3 >I 2 sign for "a" plus (+)

d. I l
<I 2 and I 3 <I 2 sign for "a" minus (-)

17
 4. Computation of Mass Value of Weight being Calibrated

In the preceding section, weighing methods and the method of computing

the mass difference between the weight being tested were discussed and il-
lustrated for each weighing method. The expression for this difference
had theform Wx *> S a. == But the required result, the mass value
of the weight being calibrated, was not given. In the special case where
the nominal value of the standard, S n , may be considered its true mass
value and no buoyancy correction is needed, then substituting for standard,
S, its nominal value, S n , in the expression:

Wx - S = a

we get wx " s n - a

and the mass value of Wx - Sn + a

The procedure is illustrated in figures 6 and 7.

4.1 Application of Correction for Standard and Buoyant Effect

In most cases, however, it is necessary to apply both a correction for

the standard and to make a correction for the difference in the buoyant ef-
fect of the atmosphere on the weight being calibrated and on the standard.
The expression Wx - S = a gives the difference between the two weights in
mass units under the conditions existing when the comparison was made.
When the value of the standard is given as its nominal value, S , plus a
correction, c, substitution for S its value, S n + c, in the expression:

Wx - S = a (as computed)

we get Wx - (S n+c) = a (c is the correction for S

from previous calibration)

and W
x
= S.+
n
c + a

This procedure is illustrated in figure 8.

When the correction, c, for the standards, S, is in terms of true mass

the value found for W x is its true mass within certain limits which depend
on the relative densities of W x and S. (See Table 1).

Where needed, the correction for the difference in the buoyant effect
may be computed as follows:

(W x - pVol w ) - (S - pVol s ) = a

(W x - S) - a - P(Vol s - Vol w )

or (W„ - S) = a + P(Vol - Vol )

18
where P(Vol w - Vol s ) is the buoyancy correction term, often
x expressed as pAV

p is the air density at the time of comparison

a is the indicated difference between the weights

Wx is the weight being tested

S is the standard

The mass value of Wx when both the correction, c, for the standard, S,
and the buoyancy correction, pAV,are applied is computed as follows start-
ing with the expression,

Wx - S = a (as computed)

wx " ( s n+c ) = a (substituting for S its value S +c)

plus buoyancy correction » PAV
Wx = S n + c + a + PAV

The value W x is the true mass when the correction for S is in

for
terms of true mass, within the appropriate uncertainty. This procedure is
illustrated in figures 9 and 10.

4.2 Use of "Transfer Standard"

When one of the duplicate weights of a set having two or more weights
of the same denomination is used as a "transfer standard" (Section 2) , this
weight is calibrated, using one of the weighing methods described in
Section 3. The other weight or weights of the same denomination are then
compared with the "transfer standard" by a suitable weighing method. When
these comparisons have been completed, the "transfer standard" is
recalibrated. The mean of the two values found for the "transfer standard"
is the value used to establish the mass values of the weights for which it
served as a standard. This procedure is illustrated in figure 11.
4.3 Added Weights
than
When the mass difference between weights being compared is larger
the on-scale range of the balance, it is necessary to add small weights to
indication.
one or the other of the weights to get an on-scale balance
known weights,
When an unknown weight is compared directly with a group of
are placed in use
this is not a problem because only enough known weights
as when the unknown
to bring the balance to the same equilibrium position
convenient to use one
weight was on the pan. However, it is sometimes more
a single large
or more added small weights with the unknown weight so that
standard may be used.

19
 In substitution weighing, using a one-pan balance, this is a straight-
forward procedure. For example, assume that the mass of the weight being
calibrated is a little less than that of a convenient standard, as in ex-
ample 1. (See Figure 12)

ile 1:

°i wx + w = I
A

°2 S = I.

°3 S + w - I.
s
w.
Wx + W - s = a
*
(I
i" I 2 ) TpT7
w^ = S - W + a Solving for Wx

waere is the weight being calibrated

S is the standard

represents the added known weight

w. is the sensitivity weight

is the difference between the masses

If in the above example S is two pounds and W is, say, 1.95 lbs, it is
evident that this procedure is more convenient than if one had used stand-
ards equal to the mass of the weight being calibrated.

The use of an equal-arm balance permits greater flexibility because

the added weights can be placed on either pan. But this adds complexity to
the computations.

Consider the same kind of situation as in the example (Example 1) with

the one-pan balance where the standard is heavier than the weight being
calibrated and impractical to
it is use a group standard, as would
be the case when a "transfer standard" is used. If the difference is known
prior to beginning the actual weighings of the calibration, then the
necessary small weights can be placed on the pan with the weight being
calibrated as shown below. (See Figure 13a)
Example 2:
Load on Pans
Observation Left Right Indication

°i WX +W A CW 1 l

°2 S CW I
2

3 s +w s CW 13

wx+ w A CW

20
The difference is expressed as follows:

wX
x + wA - *
s = V V hi h 2 |i 3+
ws
Ij
= a

Wx = S - WA + a Solving for Wx
CW is the counterweight and
the other symbols have the same meaning
as above, for substitution weighing, with the one-pan balance.

But in many instances the magnitude of the difference between the

weights will not be known before beginning the calibrations and the first
half of the weighing will have been completed before it is apparent that
small weights need to be added. In that case the most economical procedure
is to place the
added weight on the pan with the counterweight when the
standard is on the other pan, as in Example 3. (See Figure 13b).

Example 3:
Load on Pans
Observation Left Right Indication
°1 WX CW I.l

°2 S cw+w A 9

°3 s+w s cw+w A *3

It is evident that the standard is heavier than W x because additional

weights were placed in the right pan to bring the balance to an on-scale
equilibrium condition, when the standard was on the left pan. This is
really the same situation as in Example 2 because, if the counterweight
were increased by W A it would be necessary to add W A to the load on the
left pan in observation 1. The difference equation can be written in the
form:
ws
Wv - (S - WA ) = (I,- I,) ^—
- I
= a
I
3 2
and
W = S - W + a
A
Solving for Wx .

This result is the same as that for Example 2.

The following argument will demonstrate that this is true:

Consider observation as a measure of the difference between Wx and

1

CW,and observation 2 as a measurement of the difference between S and CW+W A ,

then:
Wx - CW = klj
1

S -(CW + W A ) - kl 2
2

°1~ °2 wx - CW - s + CW + w A = Mlj- i2 )

21
 : . . ^
Since I and
are in scale divisions a factor, k, is applied
I to convert
I 2
them into mass units. Generally k is equivalent to the term — in the
foregoing examples. In this example 3 2

*-—i,-i i2
W
Wx - S + WA = (I - I ) S = a

wx = s " WA + a Solving for W .

x

Consider the situation where the weight under test is heavier than the
standard weights were placed on the pan with the counter-
and the added
weight and the weight under test was placed on the other pan, as in Example
4. (See Figure 13c)

Example 4

Wx heavier than the standard, S, and the counterweight, CW.

Load on Pans
Observation Left Right Indication
°l wx CW+W.A 1
l

°2 S CW X
2

°3 s+w s CW 1
3

Using the same argument as for Example 3

Wx . w A - S
- -^f-T = a
(l
r I
2
)
TY
Wx - S + WA + a

Transposition Weighing - In transposition weighing added weights may

be used during only part of the weighing or they may be used during the
entire weighing, as required. Again, consider the case where the standard
is heavier than the weights under test and the situation requires that the
added weights be employed during the weighing, as in Example 5. (See
Figure 14a)
Example 5:
Load on Pans
Observat ion Left Right Ind ication

°i wx + w A S 1
i

°2 S wx +w A J
2

°3 s +w s wx +w A *3

22
 .

Compute as described for transposition weighing in Section 3.5.

WX
x + W*A -
*i"
S = -i-
2
—I
2
=-
t
|l
ws
2
- I
_ = a
3 2 |

Wx S - WA + a Solving for Wx

This result is the same as that obtained for substitution methods.

Nowconsider the same case as illustrated in Example 5 except that it

is necessary to employ the added weights during only one half of the trans-
position weighing, as in Example 6. (See Figure 14b)

Example 6:
Load on Pans
Observation Left Right Indication

°i
WX +W A S
*l

°2 S wx X
2

°3 s +w s wx *3

Treat each observation as a measurement of the difference between the

weights.
c-! wx + Wa - s » ki x

2 S - Wx = kl 2

X
~ 2 2WX + W A - 2S = k{Ij- I
2
)

k is a factor to transform scale divisions into mass units.

2WX - 2S - -W A + k(I - I)

Wx - S - -jk + Mliiiii = a
2 2
WA
"x - S - f+ a

This result is similar to that obtained in the previous examples, the dif-
ference being that only half of the value of the added weights was applied.

Those of the above considerations that apply to substitution weighing

are equally applicable to both single and double substitution weighing
methods; and those that apply to transposition weighing are equally appli-
cable to both single and double transposition weighing methods.

23
 5. Air Density

In order to make the buoyancy correction computations (Section 4) it

is necessary to know the density of the atmosphere in which the weighings
were made. The density of the air may be computed in any of several ways
[4J[5J. Most of the methods given in the handbooks use tables which require
either dew point measurement or wet and dry bulb thermometer readings.
But, the approximate density of the air may be computed with sufficient ac-
curacy (to about 10|Jg/cm 3 ) directly from temperature, relative humidity and
barometric pressure the formula given below [6] or by using the table
by
(see Appendix) derived from that formula. The equation is:

0.46554P - R.H. (0.00252T - 0.020582) rci

273.16 + T
where p = density of air in mg/cm 3

P = barometric pressure in mm

R.H. = relative humidity in percent

T = temperature of air in degrees centigrade

The following example illustrates how the air density (p) is computed
using this formula.

Compute the density of the air when:

The temperature is 24. 8* C,

The relative humidity is 57%
The barometric pressure is 749.6 mm, Hg.

Substituting the temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure for

the symbols in the equation above

0.46554 X 749.6 - 57(0.00252 X 24.8 - 0.020582)

P =
273.16 + 24.8

348.9689 - 57(0.041914)
P =
297.96
34 6.6599 _ , ,<-, „ ,„„,3
P = ia63 mg/Cin
297.96

24
 REFERENCES

[1] American Society for Testing Materials, 1968 Book of ASTM

Standards, Part 30 , Standard Methods of Testing Single-
Arm Balances, ASTM Designation E-319-68.

[2] National Bureau of Standards Handbook 77, Volume III,

Testing a Quick-Weighing Balance, pp 740/707 to 746/713.

[3] Cross, J. L., Reduction of Data for Piston Gage Pressure

Measurements, NBS Monograph 65.

[4] National Bureau of Standards Handbook 77, Volume III,

Circular 3, pp 671/53 to 683/65.
[5] Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, Chemical Rubber Pub-
lishing Company, Cleveland, Ohio.

[61 Bowman, Horace A. and Schoonover, Randall M. , Procedure

for High Precision Density Determinations by Hydrostatic
Weighing, NBS Journal of Research, Volume 71C (Engineer-
ing and Instrumentation) No. 3, 179-198 (1967).

25
 FIGURE 1

WEIGHT SUMMARY SHEET

Test No. 7 5~ £ /

Performed For; X Y 21 (Z^-^ a-^gZZ^>-~r^

' Date ;a-X2 ~ 6> 7
Order No. ?. " ¥ O 35 Observer C* fl n
Instrument -~^y Out£jZ—> /<P 7/ Set <&
Maker f? /J-r^
-*£
U- &-^
Inspected by:. e a» Datfe: /«? - Z.9— i> 7 Condition: 7f.
Cleaned by: & rt A . Date : /6 - Xj ~ &7 Remarks :
_

Denomination Material . Assumed Density

Weight Weight
Value Value
De s ignati on Designation

U JJr #3 6/ js ???<>(> J±
1% f99 9f
/i
pO 'i
*~M-L
J^L & 3i3 X&.0&* /_b 'i

A0- /( &-370 J&SWtJ*.

Z.0 #- 371 L0-oaoJ&> *>

&-371. XJ> .6002-0 '> .!

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XQ » #=37& JV.997F? JiJ

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JJL ii &3%~3 %A,dQ6 3K >t

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_£L &/F3\ &. ooo 3^3
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y^UL tf^_ t z,23>9f77

|

Packed by: ^A ??/ s /^ Date: //-/- <g> Report: u^ Date: //~3 -

£ J
Shipped to: X7 £_ ^-y^g-t-gt-^S-^j Via: ^££ Date: //- 7 - £ 7

26
 FIGURE 2

Temperature

Humidity
^ r° C
2 TV*
form NBS.345.0o U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARD*
She

Unit (Wt:)
Barometer
SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
/ ? 3-* to -7»Kl"5*
v
Single Pan Damped Balances
Unit (Ct. 4 D/(7.;
OBSERVATION SHEET
Obs
P^e,
Load
Balance
M ~V Date
J/-/Q-U
Set NBS Test No.
/77/f~2-
Dial Setting Scale Reading Computacioos

X - -JL^lj
wt x J" ± Zf'M
...• °

L fooo ^ /ff
^
3U '6 T
d^d-x *3
-f. L p.O
f
tm V/./V

ou a^yr^<H<.''--'

*-^ ***!&£ -22E 2Z3..

*i
w<- ^ X3t ^ te>r/ /j . r/-xos?+33. ez -ygJA*

/>
&- ZO.S7
JJtJ // *s
-t LJL0 7n?t ya<6,$

Wt 4
> -h L 2.0
*£_
//
#-ra
- *• y& ..:

Single substitution weighing (a), and double substitution weigh-

ing (b), using known weights from an ordered set of weights as
standards. The order in which the weighings are made and the
method of computing the difference, in mass units, between the
weight being tested and the standard are illustrated.
27
 FIGURE 3

Temperature
%3l1
°^ FORM NBS.345.0i
(ft-l-81)
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
NATIONAL BUREAU OP STANDARDS
Sheet

Humidity

Barometer
SZ % SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
Unit (Wta.)

7sr. 7?'-^v Single Pan Damped Balances

Unit (Cr. 4 Dttl.)
OBSERVATION SHEET
NBS
Observer
PCAJ
Balance
M-V Date
f-Jl-d^ 3 Test No.
/_Z2££g_
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations
~7Wl *>
PZ -/sr J-9'0 Z-J-rji
TV- r*l
3 C^-/Ma-
& o.o /6>-;a
*-* ii ~*" 3L,
7W *3
/?.?7
tt
+ LW *?L O.O a£-o7

" y;l 7. J&.-3

/f.97 <*h

TW J,
£3-766 I3 0't> I? • ?3
fltt

.
/r-?y
7t/ *3
t±2£Z2*.
0. O 35-.?? / T. If - t: H^".^
32-/6o ' T«f Tu
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_J1 T7
•??>J-a^i £'7 6 * j a >

0/

jft 7 1*/ <s,^ta^Ji TA)-*yiMZ ^^U f>t

Single substitution weighing (a) and double substitution weighing

(b) using the balance's built-in weights as standards. The order
in which the weighings are made and the method of computing the
difference, in mass units, between the weight being tested and
the standard are illustrated.
28
 FIGURE 4

TBMP^TURB_iJi_£^-HlMniTY_^r^ PRISSUHB ?¥f.t TffiT M0.//> ^/ sw <^-

'"IB? L ^5^ BALANCE^-/ EKLTE 7-?-iTt SHECT ^- SflUK ?

\A
Lb FT RIONT M^-i y 9, r Wf & Z5~ J - JJJ.
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Single substitution weighing (a) and double substitution weigh-
ing (b) with equal arm balances, using known weights as standards
The order in which the weighings are made and the method of com-
puting the difference, in mass units, between the weight being
tested and the standard are illustrated.
29
 FIGURE 5

TagBRATURE 2S. £, BmcmT Xji&E press uhb ??>?/ tist no. /f7?o/ s gr /?
obs^ter 4M
Z
balanc e #-/ dute 2~-j~t l sheot ; s t&its jz^

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Single transposition weighing (a) and double transposition weigh-

ing (b). Known weights are used as standards. The order in which
the weighings are made and the method of computing the differ-
ence between the weight being tested and the standard are
illustrated.
 . K

FIGURE 6
Temperature form NBS-345.06 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Sheet
2i>.% "Z~ (6-t-OU NATIONAL QURCAU Of STANDARDS
Humidity
3 5-7* SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
Unit (Wt,.)

Barometer
7f/. £ Single Pan Damped Balances
Unit (Cr. 4. Dill.)
OBSERVATION SHEET
Observer
PM C |
Balaoce
yjf-y
Dote
/I-JO-&
Set NBS Test No.
/ Z2-1£J=*
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations

wtx 5 fa.ij I?' M

T,

L50&9 LJ*J A
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substitution weighing
Single substitution weighing (a), and double weights as
weights from an ordered set of
(b)! using known and the
the weighings are made
standards. The order in which when
value of the weight under test
method of computing the mass corrections are
neither corrections for the standards nor buoyancy
required

31
 '

FIGURE 7
Temperature form U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Sheet

Humidity
hLUA (e-t-su
NBS-345.06
NATIONAL BUREAU OP STANDARD!
X
Barometer
Si % SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
Unit (Wf.)

7SS- ?? ?>*-**- Single Pan Damped Balances

Unit (Ct. * Dill.)
OBSERVATION SHEET
Observer
PCM Balance
//-v
Oat
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Set
B NBS Test No.
/77o&</
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations

B2 -)Jf
*TW -z; W &*-/&) -*£&<,. ..:
a

w P-3-jr^

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Single substitution weighing (a), and double substitution weighing

(b), using the balance's built-in weights as standards. The order
in which the weighings are made and the method of computing the
mass value of the weight under test, when neither corrections for
the standards nor buoyancy corrections are required.

32
 FIGURE 8

T^TOATURE^Tl HUMniTY ST PRgSUHB 7?« C TST WO. / 7£ f/JSB A

UN

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f/dojxU- ^<L.(o

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f ?t ,? ajjE
19. r

Double substitution weighing with equal arm balance, illustrating

,

application of the correction for standard.

33
 FIGURE 9

Temperature -
^ jp- o „ form NBS.345.06 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Sheet
^
•••(••II NATIONAL BUREAU OF IHNDAROI
Humidity ^. ^ Unit (Wt,.)
SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
*™""7¥f.6> -?— Single Pan Damped Balances
Unit (Ct. h DHL)
P' /,/£ OBSERVATION SHEET
Observer JD s* pj Balance DM Set NBS Test No.
^j _ £ f-7-U
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations

I*)** r r.o 3h?7

I,
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a

/-*- fit- ifz.'f JZ26-

// Z.73
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Single substitution weighing, with one-pan balance, illustrating

the application of the buoyancy correction.

34
 )

FIGURE 10
Temperature form NBS-34S.06 U.S. OEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Sheet
2 3./ °C (0-1-01 NATIONAL OUREAU Or STANDARDS >-
Humidity
6
,

Z. ^a
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SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
Unit (Wit.)

Barometer
7 ft. 7 r ~?rt-»- {
Single Pan Damped Balancos
Unit (Ct. i. Dill.)

//<r OBSERVATION SHEET

Observer Balance DiJte Set NBS Test No.
V>CM M-i f-/7~t? s / 77 a gy
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations
1^J~- & Tu/
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T*s
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tu X 7\ fdt/ - S7.'/"j"'"" *
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VJjW jz-jw fc 7^~ OrC

~Vei_ dBstMt-sirt VW (fja.b 1 9 ) l 7£ £?-?
C-*»v
-4 • -o o%i

T 2
3
1/ ^TTTl <?, 0*y ^ -/? /0 -*^

Double substitution weighing, using the balance's built-in weights

as standards, illustrating the application of the correction for
the standard and the application of the buoyancy correction.

35
 FIGURE 11
Temperature rORM NBS.345.0i U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Sheet
itjizt- (S-I.8U NATIONAL BUREAU OP STANDARDS
Humidity
Si % SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
Unit (Wf.)
Barometer
7s~o / . ^ Single Pan Damped Balances
Unit (Ct. 4. Dill.)
OBSERVATION SHEET
VLLLk
Observer Balance Date NBS
Vtff tf-t £-AW/ Set
C Test No.
Z7 ?/d>
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations

v-r * is. Z • *.
l£i±l + J¥>t+o
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Illustrating use of "transfer standard" (see Page 37)
36
 .

Figure 11- Illustrating use of "transfer standard"

(a) First calibration of "transfer standard"

(Weight No. 132) using known weights;

(b) Calibration of other weights of the same

denomination as the "transfer standard"
using the "transfer standard" as the
standard

(c) The repeat calibration of the "transfer

standard" after all the other weights
of the same denomination have been tested.
The mean of the two values (a) and (c)
found for the "transfer standard", Weight
No. 132, is the value of the weights
calibrated using the "transfer standard".

37
 FTG1TRF, 12
Temperature fohm N6S-345.06 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE i>heet

Humidity
± * L£
2
(8-1-SU NATIONAL UUHCAU OP STANOARO*
Unit (W l,,)

Barometer
y^ &s SUBSTITUTION WEIGHING
Single Pan Damped Balances
Zi£ ^ Unit (Cr. *, Dill.)

P c / / Cr'

-Z^-f/t*^ OBSERVATION SHEET

Observer Dola :c Date Set NBS Test No.
£ 7*. /V-£ /*V/ -JL2 U£j£Kl
Load Dial Setting Scale Reading Computations
v»jr * /# + war ~sS& r> '•
5"

T oof X- gg /£j£g
iS
r M- j, £rJrr- - ^lr"''"Z^-
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^i/U T*-oy~^ * •^
££
;/

il&j r^ ^ A? j^
2J • *a n. C-rr*

ft 41/ 3-u 2Z.~-f

X A.2-

7-e ^jjf

Double substitution weighing, with one-pan balance, illustrating

the computation of the mass value when added weights are used.
The application of the corrections for the added weight, the
standard, and the buoyancy correction.

38
 FIGURE 13
TEMPERATURE
OBSTOVBt SCmTb
I^ HIM PIT Y 1</
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BALANC E ~l BLTE/^- 7 -^7 SHEgT SBtlBB 3
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39
 FTfillRF, n rfnnrlniip>g.
TBMPBttTURE ,* # / HUMIDIT Y Vy % PRBSURB 7y?.,l T!ST NO. / T^/d fs gf A
OBSERVER K-M-B BALANC E J'- / PUTE /*-?-* 7 SHSgT ,T S TRIfiB >3

LEFT Right £r£ J 3.

XoJt>-> £ W /0. 6 /3./

T3 OOO^Utr
23 J
fltrit 13.6"

XoM- ovv !*.>¥ A*J 2.QJtd = JLOjl- + X9*** Hr

?-

%SS
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cw /££ /r-tr

35'<5'

h¥r£ /_M
c w /«*, /f-3
T3o0OjJI
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—L*j

C^^^j^Jt'ZJir^^ y^r^
<^J^U-U
S}t?

Illustrating computation of mass value when added weights are used,

double substitution weighing with equal-arm balance using "transfer
standard". (a) Weight under test lighter than standard, added
weights on pan with weight under test, (b) Weight under test light-
er than standard, added weights on pan with counterweight when
standard is on the "load pan". (c) Weight under test heavier than
standard added weights on pan with counterweight when weight under
test is on the "load pan."

40
 FIGURE 14
TaggfrTURE *.??,,. HUMIDIT Y HF% PRfSSUHB WT/ TEST NO. //T/^Sm
OBSBg|R.
LEFT
fcAj.ff
RI6HT
BALANC E J-/ PETE /*- r-&7 SHEET .? smia >
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XOM- y ZaM. /a d /y.3
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+ c^x*A^. -tJ!L
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ILL. ix<r H -X /._c £££d
-J- Z-H.

X- So.7'-X/.0

zv.y - +h 7 x - rrTtM'l*
9.7
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Z-oJt? zojf* t /o,o Ji.o

£7
-Hri it>.5~

lOjk9 H3 ihA
30.J
7^t-^ 6v J&Z fct^caj P^J^^-i^CL^Jj,

^JJjl Z •^M/ t^uj -

Illustrating computation of mass value when added weights are used;

single transposition weighing using "transfer standard". Weight
under test lighter than standard. (a) Added weights on pan with
weight under test during entire weighing. (b) Added weights on pan
with weight under test during half of transposition.
41
 APPENDIX

TABLE I

Magnitude of error introduced by considering

the true mass and apparent mass vs brass to be
the same for various ranges of densities.

Magnitude of Error Density Range

1 part in 10 5 7.85 g/cm 3 to 9.00 g/cm 3

2 parts in 10 5 7.35 g/cm 3 to 9.75 g/cm 3

3 parts in 10 5 6.94 g/cm 3 to 10.6 g/cm 3

4 parts in 10 5 6.56 g/cm 3 to 11.62 g/cm 3

5 parts in 10 5 6.23 g/cm 3 to 12.86 g/cm 3

4.95 g/cm 3 to 27.63 g/cm

3
1 part in 10 4

3 parts in 10
1
*
2.7 g/cm 3

42
 C

TABLE II

In Tables Ila and lib the temperature range is from 15° C to

35° C increments of 0.5°C. The relative humidity range is
from 10% to 90% in increments of 5%. The barometric
pressure range is from 575mm to 7 8 0mm in increments of 5mm.
The barometric reduction factor to the barometric pressure
for atmospheric humidity is given in the body of Table Ila
for various temperatures and relative humidities. The air
density, in milligrams per cubic centimeter, for the stated
conditions is given in the body of Table lib to 0.01mg/cm 3 .

To get the air density in pounds per cubic foot, multiply

the air density in mg/cm 3 by 0.06242783; and to get the air
density in pounds per cubic inch multiply the air density in
rng/cm 3 by 0.000036127.

The following procedure is used to find the air density, p ,

with Tables Ila and lib.

Enter Table I la throuqh the temperature and rela-

tive humidity. In the column headed Air Temp °C
of Table Ila, find the temperature nearest the
thermometer reading, then go across the table to
the column under the relative humidity nearest the
relative humidity reading. The number in the body
of the table at the intersection of the relative
humidity column and the temperature line is the
reduction factor and is subtracted from the
barometer reading. The resulting figure is the
reduced barometer reading and is used to enter
Table lib. In the column headed Air Temp ° C of
Table lib, find the temperature nearest the
thermometer reading, then go across the table to
the column under the barometric pressure nearest
the reduced barometer reading. The figure in the
body of Table lib at the intersection of the baro-
metric pressure column and the temperature line is
the density of the air. The following example
illustrates the procedure for using the tables.

Find the air density (

p ) when:

The temperature is 24.8°

The relative humidity is 57%
The barometric pressure is 749.6mmHg.

43
Step 1. In Table Ila the temperature nearest 24.3 °C is
25.0 *C, go along the line to the column under
relative humidity nearest 57%, which is the 55%
column. The number at the intersection of the
25 *C line and the 55% column is 5.0.

Step 2. Subtract 5.0 from the barometer reading, 74 9.6.

749.6mm - 5.0 = 744.6mm. This is the reduced
barometric pressure.

Step 3. In Table lib, find the 25.0°C line (the tempera-

ture in the table nearest 24.8 °C) across the
table to the column under barometer pressure
nearest 744.6mm, which is the 745mm column. The
number at the intersection of the 25° C line and
745mm column, 1.16, is the air density, p, in
milligrams per cubic centiineter, for the stated
conditions.

The air density found, 1.16 mg/cm , in lb/ft 3 is

3
1.16 x 0.06242788 = 0.07241634 lb/ft

in lb/in. 3 is

1.16 x 0.000036127 = 0.00041907 lb/in3

44
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47
 TABLE III

CONVERSION TABLE
Some Useful Conversion Factors

To Convert
To From Multiply By
lb/ft3 mg/cm 3 X 0.062427886
lb/ft3 g/cm 3 X 62.427886
lb/in3 mg/cm 3
X 0.000036127
lb/in3 g/cm 3 X 0.0361272
mg/cm 3 lb/ft 3
X 16.018465
mg/cm 3 lb/in 3 X 27679.9028
g/cm 3 lb/ft 3 X 0.016018465
g/cm 3 lb/in 3 X 27.679903
grams ounces X 28.349523125
grams pounds X 453.59237
kilograms ounces X 0.028349523
kilograms pounds X 0.45359237
milligrams pounds X 453592.37
ounces grams X 0.03527396
ounces kilograms X 35.27396
pounds grams X 0.00220462
pounds kilograms X 2.204623
pounds milligrams X 0.0000022046
cu in. cm 3 X 0.06102374
cu ft cm 3
X 0.00003531467
cm 3 cu in. X 16.387064
cm 3 cu ft X 28316.846592
cm feet X 30.48
cm inches X 2.54
feet cm X 0.0328084
ounces pounds X 16
pounds ounces X 0.0625
inches cm X 0.3937008

48
 TABLE IV

DENSITIES AND VOLUMES PER UNIT MASS

OF
SELECTED MATERIALS

Density at 20°C Volume at 20°C

cm 3 in 3
Material sZ cm lb/in 3
Per gram Per lb

Brass (Normal) 8.3909 0.30314 0.119177 3.29881

Stainless Steel 8.0 0.2890 0.1250 3.4600
Stain less Steel 7.92 0.2861 0.1263 3.4950
Stainless Steel 7.89 0.2850 0.1267 3.5083
Stainless Steel 7.84 0.2832 0.1276 3.5306
Stainless Steel 7.8 0.2818 0. 1282 3.5487
Stainless Steel 7.76 0.2803 0.1289 3.5670
Stainless Steel 7.75 0.2800 0.1290 3.5716
Steel 7.83 0.2829 0.1277 3.5351
Cast Iron (Gray) 7.0 0.2529 0.1429 3.9543
Cast Iron (White) 7.6 0.2746 0.1316 3.3948
Nickel Ch romium 8.34 0.3013 0.1199 3.3190
Nickel Ch romium 8.41 0.3038 0.1189 3.2913
Nickel Ch romium 8.5 0.3071 0.1176 3.2565
Tantalum 16.6 0.5997 0.0602 1.6675
Platinum 21.37 0.7720 0.0468 1.2 95 3
Platinum 21.5 0. 7767 0.0465 1.2874
Platinum- Iridium 21.54 0. 7782 0.0464 1.2850
Aluminum 2.7 0.0975 0.3704 10.2522

49
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FORM NBS-114A (1-71)

U.S. DEPT. OF COMM. 1.PUBLICATION OR REPORT NO. 2. Gov't Accession 3. Recipient's Accession No.
BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA No.
SHEET Technical Note 577
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE 5. Publication Date

May 1971
Method of Calibrating Weights for Piston Gages 6. Performing Organization Code

7. AUTHOR(S) I. Performing Organization

H. E. Aimer
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS 10. Project/Task/ Work Unit No.

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS 2320190

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 11. Contract/Grant No.
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20234

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Final
Optical Physics Division
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Institute for Basic Standards

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16. ABSTRACT (A 200-word or less factual summary of most significant information. If document includes a significant
bibliography or literature survey, mention it here.)

Generally weights for piston gages have odd denominations that are
often not readily calibrated by intercomparison methods. Therefore
these weights are frequently calibrated by direct comparison
methods. This paper presents direct comparison methods for cali-
brating piston gage weights for use with both equal-arm balances
and single-pan balances. Methods of estimating the uncertainty of
the values obtained are given. Also included are methods of
checking for blunders or gross errors.

17. KEY WORDS (Alphabetical order, separated by semicolons)

balance; buoyancy; calibration; standards; substitution weighing; transposition
weighing; true mass; uncertainty; value.
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