June 2025 Metrology News Magazine

Editors Message:

As geopolitical tensions continue to shape global trade policy, the shadow of tariffs once again looms large over the global manufacturing ecosystem. In the United States and Europe, calls for reshoring production and imposing tariffs on foreign imports, particularly from China, are gaining momentum. While the broader economic and political consequences dominate the headlines, the metrology industry stands at a less visible but no less consequential inflection point. Tariffs, by design, aim to protect domestic industries, but their downstream effects often ripple through supply chains in unpredictable ways. For metrology equipment manufacturers, these policies present a dual-edged sword.

On the positive side, tariffs may bolster domestic demand for locally designed and manufactured metrology solutions. As manufacturers seek to localize supply chains to avoid punitive import duties, there’s renewed interest in North American and European metrology providers that can deliver competitive, high-precision systems without the added cost of cross-border complexities. This could catalyze growth in regional production capacities, stimulate investment in R&D, and drive new partnerships between OEMs and local metrology firms eager to support reindustrialization initiatives.

However, the negative consequences cannot be ignored. Higher equipment costs caused by retaliatory tariffs or restricted access to essential foreign components can stifle innovation and delay capital investment in new metrology technologies. Globalization has long been a source of strength for the metrology sector – facilitating efficient component sourcing, international collaboration, and broader market reach. A retreat from this interconnected model risks creating silos that may limit technological advancement and squeeze smaller players out of the market.

Compounding these challenges is the rising threat from China’s domestic metrology sector. Once viewed as years behind Western technology leaders, Chinese metrology firms have closed much of the innovation gap with remarkable speed. Fueled by state investment, a vast talent pool, and an aggressively growing domestic manufacturing base, these companies are beginning to challenge legacy metrology brands – not just in emerging markets, but increasingly on the global stage.

As we move into the second half of 2025, the metrology industry finds itself at a crossroads. Stakeholders must navigate a complex interplay of protectionism, global competition, and technological leapfrogging. The decisions made now, by governments, manufacturers, and metrology leaders, will shape not only the future of measurement but also the competitive landscape of industrial innovation.

One thing is clear: in a world redefined by economic nationalism and shifting centers of industrial power, metrology can no longer be viewed in isolation. It is, and always has been, at the very heart of global manufacturing, and its evolution will mirror the trajectory of globalization itself.

This month featured articles included “Revolutionizing Manufacturing Metrology for Smart Factories”; “Eliminating Data Silos With Smart Inspection Connectivity”; “Harnessing The Digital Thread – Turning 3D Measurement into Manufacturing Intelligence”; “Speaking the Language of Precision – Advancing Metrology Training Worldwide” and “China Unveils Ambitious Five-Year Metrology Plan to Spur Disruptive Innovation“.

Access the full library of June Metrology News articles by clicking here.

As usual, I welcome your comments, news, and views – my inbox is always open.

Keith Mills – Publishing Editor

Revolutionizing Manufacturing Metrology for Smart Factories

For decades, manufacturing metrology has relied on traditional data collection methods. Think of meticulously recorded measurements from coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), carefully calibrated gauges, and manually documented inspection reports. This data, while crucial for quality control, often resided in silos, analyzed in isolation, and offered a snapshot of a specific point in time … read more

Eliminating Data Silos With Smart Inspection Connectivity

With the launch of PolyWorks 2025, InnovMetric is introducing a digital thread that promises to revolutionize how 3D measurement data flows across teams. Metrology News spoke with Marc Soucy, PhD, President and co-founder of InnovMetric, about the importance of breaking down workflow silos in modern manufacturing. What motivated you to pursue a digital thread … read more

Equator–X Dual-Method Gauging System Launched

Renishaw has announced the launch of its latest pioneering solution for shop floor process control, the Equator–X 500 dual-method system. This innovative product brings unique capabilities to manufacturers around the world, enabling them to select the optimum inspection method, Absolute or Compare, for their process challenge, effectively deploying two systems in one … read more

ZEISS Introduces Entry Into Automated 3D Metrology

With ZEISS ScanPort, ZEISS presents an innovative, powerful solution in optical 3D metrology that combines accuracy, flexibility, and ease of use in a compact system. This new semi-automated system is designed for users who require reliable metrology results – without the need for extensive training or complex setups. ZEISS ScanPort delivers fast, highly precise 3D data … read more

Turning 3D Measurement into Manufacturing Intelligence

Measurement data holds immense potential, but it only delivers real value when properly harnessed. In a continuation of the recent interview article ‘Eliminating Data Silos With Smart Inspection Connectivity’ with Marc Soucy, PhD, President and co-founder of InnovMetric, we discuss how PolyWorks 2025 empowers manufacturers to transform raw inspection data … read more

Intelligent Tool Monitoring Driving Autonomous Manufacturing

In the age of Industry 4.0, data is the new currency, and manufacturers need smarter, faster ways to optimize their operations. Uptime, tool life, and part quality aren’t just metrics; they are the foundation of performance, and Datanomix is leading the charge with its TMAC ai solution which brings a powerful new layer of intelligence to the shop floor … read more

Renishaw Democratizes Machine Tool Performance Testing

Renishaw is launching its new CARTO Ballbar Connect app for the QC20 ballbar. The use of mobile technology, smartphones and tablets, and their associated apps have become firmly established as part of everyday life. Recognising how they can also assist in a multitude of working environments the app provides a simplified user experience for machine operators … read more

Hexagon Launches Humanoid Robot Developed For Industry

Hexagon has introduced a humanoid robot, AEON, at its Hexagon LIVE Global event. AEON, developed by Hexagon’s previously announced Robotics division, has been specifically designed to meet real-world customer needs and address labour shortages. AEON combines Hexagon’s world-class sensor suite with advanced locomotion, AI-driven mission control … read more

Reducing Costs and Improving Productivity with Metrology

Margins are under constant threat and businesses need to find ways to reduce costs, improve efficiency and productivity, and drive down waste. Metrology can help alleviate some of these pressures on the business when used efficiently. There are two key issues that metrology can address; Repeatable Measurements and an Agile Workforce … read more

Metrology Metaverse – Real-Time Factory Simulations

The BMW Group is industrialising its Virtual Factory, with production planners continuously scaling applications in the digital twins of over 30 production sites to accelerate production planning worldwide. What once required several weeks of real-world modifications and testing can now be precisely simulated in the BMW Group’s Virtual Factory … read more

Speaking the Language of Precision – Advancing Metrology Training Worldwide

In an increasingly globalized and automated manufacturing environment, precision is not optional — it is fundamental. Yet precision in measurement is only as reliable as the people creating the data and those interpreting it. This is where AUKOM e.V., a non-profit association based in Germany, plays a unique and essential role … read more

Synthetic Data – Addressing the Data Bottleneck in AI-Driven Quality Control

An MIT Technology Review Insights survey of global manufacturers found that 57 % of executives identify data quality as their biggest obstacle to scaling AI, a view shared by half of leaders in electronics and high-tech production. Poor lighting control, drifting sensor calibration, and other line-side variables add noise to images, while truly critical defects may appear rarely … read more

Autonomous Metrology Suite Delivers Manufacturing Quality at Speed

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division has announced the launch of Autonomous Metrology Suite, software developed on its cloud-based Nexus platform that is designed to transform quality control across manufacturing industries worldwide. By removing all coding from coordinate measuring machine (CMM) workflows, it helps manufacturers speed up critical R&D … read more

China Unveils Ambitious Five-Year Metrology Plan to Spur Disruptive Innovation

China has unveiled a sweeping five-year action plan aimed at transforming its national metrology system into a driver of disruptive innovation, with direct implications for the future of global manufacturing competitiveness. More than a domestic initiative, this plan positions China to redefine how measurement science underpins high-tech manufacturing … read more

Redefining Surface Metrology – The Precision and Power of Coherence Scanning Interferometry

In today’s advanced manufacturing environment, precision surface metrology is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Across industries as diverse as semiconductors, aerospace, medical devices, optics, and additive manufacturing, product performance and quality often hinge on minute surface features measured in nanometers. Coherence Scanning Interferometry has emerged … read more

Metrology Challenges in Additive Manufacturing – Ensuring Consistency in Complex Geometries

Additive manufacturing (AM), often hailed as the future of industrial production, has made remarkable strides in transforming the way components are designed, manufactured, and brought to market. From aerospace to medical implants, and from automotive to energy sectors, AM enables the creation of complex geometries, lightweight structures, and highly customized parts … read more

PixelPaint Delivers Unprecedented Precision and Eliminates Overspray

ABB’s innovative PixelPaint technology has been deployed at the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen plant in Germany, where it complements the site’s conventional painting processes by enabling the precise and efficient application of intricate paint designs. The sustainable and resource-saving technology began operation in 2025 as the luxury manufacturer develops … read more

Lumafield Launches High-Throughput Automated Industrial CT

Lumafield has announced the full availability of Triton, its production-ready CT scanning system built for manufacturers who need instant, automated, and non-destructive quality control. Following a successful soft launch in November 2023, Triton is now deployed across industries and ready for broader adoption. Triton pairs automated industrial X-ray hardware … read more

Quality Imperative Drives Robot Adoption in Manufacturing

According to the latest Industrial and Manufacturing Survey by global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, 53% of manufacturers are in the early stages of adopting new industrial robot hardware, while 28% already have industrial robots deployed. The survey, conducted between Q4 2024 and Q1 of 2025 across the USA, Germany, and Malaysia  … read more

Revolutionize Metal 3D Printing with CNC Hybrid Integration

Phillips Corporation, and Meltio, a laser metal deposition technology manufacturer, have announced a major advancement in defense manufacturing whereby Phillips Corporation has become the first Meltio partner worldwide to successfully integrate the Meltio Engine Blue into a Haas CNC machine. This milestone marks a significant evolution in hybrid manufacturing … read more

AI Vision Inspection and Virtual Controllers Empower Audi

Siemens and Audi are revolutionizing manufacturing processes with software-defined automation and artificial intelligence (AI). The long-standing partnership is accelerating innovation for the automotive industry by focusing on integrating virtual and hardware controllers, enhancing safety functions, and streamlining production … read more

Mountains 11 Sets New Standard In Surface Image Analysis

Digital Surf has unveiled the latest version of its industry-leading software platform, delivering next-generation 3D visualization, smarter stitching and faster generation and sharing of reports for metrologists, scientists and engineers worldwide. Mountains 11.0, the newest version of its acclaimed software platform used for surface metrology and microscopy image analysis … read more

Nikon Launches Enhanced Limited Angle CT Technology

Nikon Corporation has launched Limited Angle CT, an innovative computed tomography (CT) scanning technology for its range of VOXLS and XT H 225 industrial X-ray inspection systems. This technology advances CT scanning by delivering high-resolution imaging without the need for a full 360-degree sample rotation. By enabling samples to be positioned closer to the X-ray source … read more

In-Machine Automatic Surface Roughness Measurement

An innovative automated solution for measuring surface roughness directly within the CNC machine tool. The MarSurf MC 510 measuring device is fully integrated into the tool holder and utilizes a vibration-resistant, non-contact tactile probe system to deliver standard-compliant, high-precision measurements with accuracy down to Rz 1 µm … read more

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