T09: Mass and Mass Related Metrology: Fundamentals and Uncertainty Contributor Calculations
- Start Date : 3 February, 2026
- Start Time : 8:00am
- End Date : 3 February, 2026
- End Time : 12:00pm
- Address : Salon IV, N Tower
No Schedule
Abstract
Mass and Mass Related
Mass
The fundamental concept of mass, its units, and its distinction from weight, is suitable for a “Level 1” introduction to physics. It defines mass as the quantity of matter in an object, measured in kilograms, and contrasts it with weight, which is a measure of gravitational force. The abstract would likely also mention the formula
m=ρ×Vm=𝜌×V
(mass = density x volume) and highlight that mass is an intrinsic property of an object, whereas weight can change depending on location.
Force
The fundamentals of force include the concept of force as a push or pull that changes an object’s motion, defined by the equation
F=maF=ma
𝐹=𝑚𝑎
(Force = mass × acceleration). Additionally, the concept is broken down into four fundamental forces: gravity, electromagnetism, the strong nuclear force, and the weak nuclear force.
Furthermore, how are the uncertainty contributors identified, measured and how is the uncertainty budget calculated.
Yvette Volschenk
I bring over 33 years of experience working in calibration laboratories, specializing in various fields with a strong focus on temperature calibration. My expertise includes the calibration of Nobel and base metal thermocouples, platinum resistance thermometers, digital and liquid-in-glass thermometers, ovens, furnaces, incubators, autoclaves, and dry-well calibrators.
As a consultant, I provide guidance aligned with international standards. I have assisted numerous laboratories in achieving accreditation under ISO/IEC 17025:2017 for calibration and testing across various disciplines, as well as ISO/IEC 17020:2012 for inspection bodies in fields such as occupational hygiene, textiles, leather, footwear, and electrical inspections.
In addition to consulting, I deliver training programs tailored to client needs. My training covers ISO/IEC 17025:2017, ISO/IEC 17020:2012, measurement uncertainty, internal auditing, and technical calibration topics.
From 2005 to 2015, I served as a contracted technical assessor for SANAS (South African National Accreditation System), specializing in temperature, force, torque, and hardness calibrations. During this period, I was also a member of the temperature special technical committee and served as chairman of the force, torque, and hardness committee. I contributed to working groups responsible for developing additional SANAS technical requirements.
Currently, I am a contracted assessor for ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board), proudly supporting assessments across multiple calibration disciplines.
Anna Escarcega
I bring over 30 years of experience in aerospace metrology and calibration, with a career spanning support for strategic systems such as ICBMs (Titan, Peacekeeper, Minuteman), Air-Launched Cruise Missiles (ALCM, ACM), and F-16 fighter jets.
My introduction to calibration began during my service in the U.S. Air Force, supporting F-16 aircraft maintenance.
My technical expertise covers a wide range of calibration disciplines, including temperature, and I’ve held leadership roles as Laboratory and Quality Manager for organizations ranging from small firms to large defense contractors such as L3 Communications in Torrance, CA.
These roles have equipped me with a deep understanding of metrology and the infrastructure necessary to maintain high standards of quality and compliance.
In addition to managing calibration labs, I’ve trained personnel in calibration techniques and best practices, fostering technical growth within teams. Currently, I am the owner and CEO of Escarcega Technical Services.
I also currently serve as a contract assessor for ANAB, conducting assessments across multiple calibration fields—an opportunity I value as it allows me to contribute to quality and competence across the industry.