TS 296 ISO 31-3

TS 296 ISO 31-3 is a terminology standard for the names and symbols of quantities and units used in mechanics within the International System of Units. It supports consistent notation in engineering and measurement writing, helping users apply the same symbol logic to core mechanical concepts such as force, motion, work, and energy.

A common notation for mechanical quantities

Mechanics is one of the core areas of physics and engineering, so a standard in this field mainly provides consistency in naming and symbol use. That consistency matters in technical drawings, lecture notes, calculation sheets, and data tables, where the same quantity should not be expressed in incompatible ways. It helps reduce unit confusion and improves traceability in calculations.

According to the scope given for this document, its coverage is the names and symbols of mechanical quantities and the corresponding units. In general technical terms, this kind of terminology standard helps distinguish closely related concepts clearly; for example, force versus weight, work versus energy, or pressure versus stress. The scope supports standardized naming and symbol use for mechanics, but it does not itself state any specific test method, numerical limit, or equipment requirement.

• Provides consistent names and symbols for mechanical quantities.
• Supports correct and unambiguous unit use.
• Creates a common notation for calculations, technical documentation, and education.
• Helps align mechanical quantities with the wider ISO 31 series.

This record is based on ISO 31-3:1992 with Amendment 1 and is withdrawn. It is therefore useful as a historical reference for SI-based mechanical terminology, while current practice should follow any newer unit and notation rules adopted by the relevant body.