Proof of concept and new developments on a Kibble extension

Abstract

Abstract This article describes the proof of concept of a Kibble extension for vacuum mass comparators and its further development. A Kibble extension is a technical extension for vacuum mass comparators to connect to the new definition of the International System of Units (SI) of 2019. A commercially available high-vacuum prototype mass comparator from Sartorius serves as the basis. It is used to compare kilogram prototypes, such as the international prototype kilogram ( K ) $(\mathfrak{K})$ , directly with other kilogram mass standards in order to realize a calibration chain. According to the new definition of the SI in 2019, the kilogram is defined by the Planck constant (h), therefore the Kibble extension is designed to enable high-vacuum mass comparators to be converted by technical modifications to allow mass to be realized according to the new definition. The aim is to realize kilogram prototypes and mass standards in the range from 1 mg to 1 kg according to the E1 standard of OIML R111-1 (2004). Initial measurement results with a prototype of the Kibble extension are presented and evaluated. Based on the experience gained, a lightweight magnet system developed with the use of simulation methods is presented. This is intended to contribute to the further development of the Kibble extension.