The FPS Economy supports production and trade and enhances the competitiveness of Belgian companies in providing the technical infrastructure and scientific expertise necessary to implement primary measurement standards of the highest precision, as well as services that are compatible with those of other countries.
The scientific metrology department offers economic and scientific operators in Belgium the following services:
- quality assurance by providing a direct link between the precision equipment and transfer standards of the client and the national measurement standards through calibration services provided to industry and laboratories. This guarantees traceability to the SI (International System of Units) and therefore the international equivalence of measurements in manufacturing processes;
- supporting innovation through the development and improvement of measurement standards adapted by participating in research programmes. Companies utilising new technologies are supported through accurate calibration of their measuring instruments to ensure product quality and the compatibility of parts manufactured in collaboration;
- disseminating knowledge in metrology through experts available to advise on specific questions as well as more detailed consulting projects for companies during the development and implementation of new measurement systems.
Actions implemented to ensure that these services include, as an optimum:
- a special emphasis on nanometrology through investment and a dedicated and innovative development programme;
- involvement in European research programmes in metrology (European Metrology Research Program (EMRP) and European Association of National Metrology Institutes (Euramet));
- technical support for the Belgian organisations Belac and BELMET;
- participation in the international comparisons and activities of Euramet and the BIPM (International Bureau of Weights and Measures);
- establishment of the BELMET network to broaden the range of national standards offered;
- participation in international comparisons.