Low-cost products uptake in BRIC to drive metrology market

Analysis of the dimensional metrology in emerging economies from Frost & Sullivan finds that the market earned revenue of US$203.9 million in 2011 and estimates this to reach US$275.6 million in 2016.

Successful metrology vendors in the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India and China)  have  understood  the  importance of client interaction and customer-centric product  development.  In  the  future,  all equipment vendors are likely to work toward expanding their direct presence in this area.

“Further, initiatives to educate customers on technology and new application markets will  increase  awareness  and  generate revenue  for  dimensional  metrology equipment vendors,” said Frost & Sullivan Test  &  Measurement  Research Analyst Aravind Govindan.

Low-cost  coordinate  measuring machines  (CMMs)  have  broken  entry barriers in BRIC countries. In traditionally conservative  industries,  such  as  heavy machinery, customers are hesitant to adopt new technologies such as optical digitizer and  scanner  (ODS).  However,  leading market participants’ efforts to manufacture low-cost CMMs is expected to boost their revenue potential.

Meanwhile, ODS market, vendors customise the prices of their solutions to the region’s needs and price sensitivity. Although there is demand for high-end solutions, the low- and mid-range segment accounts for the majority of sales in BRIC countries.

As technology improves, the cost of these solutions is expected to decline.Despite  the  prevailing economic uncertainty,  market  participants are optimistic about their prospects. Recently, growing pressure from  European and American automotive manufacturers for quality output and standardised manufacturing processes across the value chain has raised the demand for CMMs.