What is a standard? A standard refers to a document that provides a basis for
technical communication regarding a device or procedure. It can refer to weight,
length, time, etc., such as those found at the National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST). A distinction is made between a recommended practice (describing
a particular use) and a standard (with a technical foundation). The standard
with a technical foundation will be discussed in this chapter. In the IEC and
ISO, the term "Technical Report" covers Recommended Practices.

Good standards set down on paper contain a vast store of human knowledge; they are a product of past experience and present knowledge and a guide for the future. They are a measure of human progress. Standards are intended to make life easier for everyone - not just a few.

This chapter is intended to increase the awareness and understanding of the
importance and benefits in the development of standards. A good standard will be
helpful to the product designer, the product manufacturer, the sales and marketing
group, and the user of the product. Lists of U.S. and international standards are
included.

How Does One Interface with Standards?

Standards for flow measurement fill the same function as the everyday standards
that assure the stability of specifications for clothing, food, traffic lights,
automobiles, etc. Terminology, technical features, and dimensional interchangeability,
etc., ensure that the purchaser receives what was ordered and enable one to
design a system properly, safely, and accurately.

Certification ensures performance under specified conditions so the user need
not test every meter received.

A properly developed standard will establish terminology to identify the device and the effects of installation and ambient conditions. It will identify test procedures, and it will supply required equations for the user to calculate flow rate and uncertainty for a specific application.