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Chapter 5
E. Measurement Systems
Part I.E
Convert like units between SI, English, and
metric measurement systems (e.g., inchmicro-inch,
liter-quart, meter-millimeter).
(Application)
Body of Knowledge I.E
MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS
There are three measurement systems that are commonly used in industry: the
International System of Units (abbreviated SI), the metric system, and the English
system. The units of SI are internationally accepted standards and are generally
the same as the units used in the metric system, with a few exceptions. Conversion
of units within both the SI and metric systems is relatively straightforward, since
the systems are based on units that vary by factors of ten. For example:
1 liter = 10 deciliters = 100 centiliters = 1000 milliliters
In contrast, the English measurement system, still used by many companies in the
United States, has many conversion factors. As a result, changing units within
the English system can be quite cumbersome. For example:
1 quart = 2 pints = 4 cups = 32 fluid ounces
Quality inspectors should feel comfortable converting units within systems as
well as between the English, SI, and metric systems. Following is a listing of common
measures and conversion factors for the three systems. A more comprehensive
listing of measurement conversion factors can be found in Appendix C.
ENGLISH SYSTEM MEASUREMENTS
To convert units within the English system, use the relationships found in Tables
5.1 through 5.6.
To convert length units within the English system, use the relationships
given in Table 5.1. For example, to convert miles into feet, the table shows that we
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