Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt

Working group 1.21 is responsible for the realization and transfer of the physical quantity "force". The force scale is realized by means of force standard machines (FSM) working on different principles. In deadweight force standard machines the force is generated by the weight force of mass stacks in the gravity field of the earth (up to 2 MN). Higher forces (up to 16.5 MN) are realized by hydraulic amplification of deadweight forces.

Transfer of the force scale is ensured by the testing and calibration of force measuring devices in the Working group's force standard machines using different measuring methods. In addition to the work carried out to realize and transfer the force scale, basic research is pursued in the field of force measurement. This includes, for example, the development and investigation of new measuring facilities and devices for the measurement of static and dynamic forces or international comparisons.