The NIST MEL: assisting aerospace manufacturing through measurements and standards

The research, measurement and standards activities of the Manufacturing Engineering Laboratory (MEL) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are summarized, especially as they relate to aerospace manufacturing. NIST is a non-regulatory agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Technology Administration that was established in 1901 as the National Bureau of Standards. MEL is one of seven NIST measurement and standards laboratories. MEL works with the American manufacturing sector to develop and apply technology, measurements, and standards. MEL provides industry-needed engineering tools, interface standards, systems architectures, and traceability. Through its research and services, MEL helps U.S. industry successfully compete in the global marketplace. Manufacturers employ MEL research results, test methods, software conformance tests, calibration services, and measurement tools. Disclaimer-No approval or endorsement of any commercial product by NIST is intended or implied. Certain commercial equipment, instruments, or materials are identified in this report in order to facilitate understanding. Such identification does not imply recommendation or endorsement by NIST, nor does it imply that the materials or equipment identified are necessarily the best available for the purpose. This publication was prepared by United States Government employees as part of their official duties.