This paper tackles the design of a calibration using experimental design te
chniques. In particular, the optimum calibration plan for measurement chain
is identified by suitably elaborating the error propagation law suggested
by the ISO Guide. The main advantages of the proposed approach consist in:
(i) calibration plans with a reduced number of calibration points; (ii) cal
ibration curve applicable to the whole operating range; (iii) linear rather
than complex regression technique always usable. Two different cases were
analysed in order to show the efficiency of the proposed optimisation proce
dure: a psychrometer and an heat meter. The obtained theoretical results ar
e verified on a number of real calibrations. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier
Science Ltd.