national measurement act 1960
determination by the national standards commission
Recognized-Value Standard of Measurement
of Density Mercury
In pursuance of paragraphs 8A(1) (a) and (b) of the National Measurement Act 1960, the National Standards Commission hereby determines that the magnitude of the density of mercury dt at a temperature t and a mean pressure p shall be a recognized-value standard of measurement, provided t lies within the range 0°C to 40°C and p lies within the range 0 Pa to 107 Pa.
For the purposes of this Determination -
(a) When p is 101 325 Pa and t is one of the temperatures listed in the attached table then the magnitude of the density in kg.m-3 is as stated in the table, which is derived from the following formula:
dt = 13 595.08 / {1 + (18 150.36 t + 0.702 09 t2 + 2.865 5 10-3t3 + 2.621 10-6 t4) 10-8}
where dt is the density in kg.m-3, and
t is the temperature in °C;
(b) When p is 101 325 Pa and t is between two adjacent values of temperature listed in the attached table then the magnitude of the density in kg.m-3 shall be determined from the table by linear interpolation;
(c) When p differs from 101 325 Pa the magnitude of the density in kg.m-3 as stated in the attached table or derived therefrom in accordance with the above linear interpolation shall be algebraically increased by an amount equal to
5.47 10-7 (p – 101 325); and
(d) If the value of t used in the attached table and the above equations does not differ from the true mean temperature of the mercury by more than 0.1°C, if the value of p used in the equation does not differ from the true mean pressure within the mercury by more than 1 000 Pa, and if impurities in the mercury do not exceed 5 part in 106 by mass, the chance is not more than one in one hundred that the density so ascertained differs from the true density by more than 0.3 kg.m-3.
Dated this 21st day of March 1985
The common seal of the national T.J. PETRY
standards commission was hereto
affixed by authority of the Commission
in the presence of
The density of mercury in kilograms per cubic metre as a function of the temperature in degrees Celsius
Overview
The National Measurement Act 1960, enacted by the Australian Parliament, establishes the framework for the regulation and standardization of measurements across the nation. This Act aims to address the need for uniformity and accuracy in measurements to ensure fair trade practices, protect consumers, and facilitate scientific research. In 1985, the National Standards Commission, pursuant to sections 8A(1)(a) and (b) of the Act, determined that the density of mercury at specified temperatures and pressures would be recognized as a standard of measurement. This determination ensures that the density of mercury is accurately and consistently measured within specified ranges, thus maintaining the integrity of measurement standards and supporting various industrial and scientific applications that depend on precise measurements.
Scope and Application
The National Measurement Act 1960 Determination by the National Standards Commission concerning the Recognized-Value Standard of Measurement of Density Mercury applies to the magnitude of the density of mercury at specified temperatures and pressures. The act establishes a recognized-value standard for measuring the density of mercury, which must fall within a temperature range of 0°C to 40°C and a pressure range of 0 Pa to 107 Pa. This determination applies to any entity or individual involved in the measurement of mercury's density, particularly within industries where precise measurements are crucial, such as scientific research, manufacturing, and quality control. The jurisdictional reach of this determination is national, extending across all states and territories in Australia. While the primary focus is on the recognized-value standard for mercury density, there are no explicit exclusions or exemptions stated within this Determination, although it does specify the conditions under which the density values are accurate. The application of this Determination may be extended or restricted through subordinate instruments issued by the National Standards Commission, ensuring that the standards remain aligned with technological advancements and industry needs.
Key Provisions
The National Measurement Act 1960 (sections 8A(1)(a) and (b)) has been utilised by the National Standards Commission to establish a recognised-value standard for the measurement of mercury's density. Specifically, the Act determines that the density of mercury at a specified temperature and pressure range is recognised, provided the temperature is between 0°C and 40°C and the pressure is within 0 Pa to 107 Pa. This determination outlines specific values and methods for calculating the density of mercury under these conditions, ensuring consistency and reliability in measurement.
The Act imposes several obligations on parties or entities governed by it. Primarily, these entities must adhere to the specified temperature and pressure ranges and the stipulated method of calculating mercury's density. If the temperature and pressure conditions align with the criteria mentioned in the Act, the density must be calculated using the provided formula or by linear interpolation between listed values. Additionally, if the pressure differs from the standard 101,325 Pa, the density value must be adjusted accordingly. The Act also mandates that any measurements must meet the precision criteria regarding temperature, pressure, and purity to ensure accuracy.
Breach of the provisions outlined in this determination may lead to various consequences. While the Act does not explicitly detail offences or penalties, non-compliance with measurement standards could result in civil or criminal liabilities under broader legal frameworks. For instance, inaccurate measurements might be considered fraudulent practices under consumer protection laws, potentially leading to fines, legal actions, or other penalties. The precise penalties would depend on the specific legal context in which the breach occurs, but the implications could be significant for entities involved in the measurement or use of mercury density.