Renishaw to Showcase UK Debut of Equator-X Dual-Method Gauge
Renishaw will present a comprehensive portfolio of metrology and manufacturing solutions at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026, taking place from 3–5 February at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre, UK. Renishaw will place the spotlight firmly on the UK exhibition debut of the Equator-X dual-method gauge, positioning it as a key enabler for high-speed, shop floor measurement and closed-loop manufacturing.
UK First for Equator-X
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 marks the first opportunity for UK visitors to see the Equator-X system demonstrated live. Taking centre stage on Renishaw’s stand, the Equator-X will be shown inspecting an aerospace component, clearly illustrating its capability to perform accurate, repeatable measurement directly on the shop floor.
Designed for use close to the point of manufacture, the Equator-X enables manufacturers to gain immediate feedback on part conformance, helping them react quickly to process variation and reduce scrap. By delivering rapid measurement results in the production environment, the system bridges the gap between traditional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and in-process gauging.
Michael Duffield, UK General Manager at Renishaw, commented: “Southern Manufacturing & Electronics will be the first UK exhibition to feature our Equator-X dual method gauge. The Equator-X system enables measurement of parts on the shop floor, as close to the source of production as possible, providing instant feedback on part conformance. Connection to the machine tool allows precise process control by updating tool offsets, maximising yield and profitability.”
Dual-Method Flexibility for Modern Production
A key differentiator of the Equator-X is its dual-method capability, allowing manufacturers to balance speed and accuracy according to application requirements. This flexibility makes the system particularly well suited to high-mix, high-value industries such as aerospace, automotive and precision engineering, where rapid process feedback is critical.
By integrating directly with machine tools, the Equator-X supports closed-loop manufacturing strategies. Measurement data can be fed back automatically to update tool offsets, enabling tighter process control, reduced operator intervention and improved first-time-right production. The result is higher throughput, improved yield and greater overall profitability.
Software and Connectivity Driving Insight
Alongside the Equator-X hardware, Renishaw will demonstrate how Renishaw Central provides real-time visibility of production performance. By aggregating and visualising measurement data, Renishaw Central helps manufacturers monitor trends, identify issues early and make informed decisions based on live shop floor information.
Visitors will also be introduced to the latest MODUS IM Equator Programmer software, a CAD-based, offline programming solution developed to simplify and accelerate Equator measurement programming. The software automatically imports geometry, dimensions and GD&T data directly from CAD models, significantly reducing programming time.
With full simulation capabilities, MODUS IM Equator Programmer allows users to validate measurement routines before deployment. Certified algorithms ensure reliable feature measurement, accurate feature construction and precise part alignment, delivering confidence in results even in demanding production environments.
Broader Metrology and Manufacturing Technologies
Beyond the Equator-X, Renishaw’s stand will showcase a wide range of complementary technologies supporting precision manufacturing. This includes the company’s rotary and linear encoder solutions, which provide high-accuracy position feedback to enhance machine tool performance. Featuring zero-wear, non-contact designs, these encoders offer incremental or absolute measurement with low-noise signals for superior motion control.
Renishaw will also display its FORTiS enclosed linear encoders, engineered for robust, high-performance measurement in harsh machine tool environments. With exceptional resistance to vibration and contamination, FORTiS encoders are designed to maintain accuracy and reliability in demanding industrial conditions.
Additive manufacturing will be another focus area on the stand, with Renishaw highlighting its capabilities in metal additive manufacturing systems, from precision 3D printing to post-process measurement. Visitors can also explore Renishaw’s extensive range of machine tool probes, which support accurate, efficient and repeatable machining processes across a wide range of industries.
Demonstrating Future of Shop Floor Measurement
Renishaw’s presence at Southern Manufacturing & Electronics 2026 underlines the growing importance of shop floor metrology as a core element of digital manufacturing strategies. With the UK debut of the Equator-X, live demonstrations and integrated software solutions, the company will show how fast, flexible measurement can drive better process control, higher productivity and improved manufacturing outcomes.
For more information: www.renishaw.com
