CONTROL-TECH 2026 comes to a close. Precision measurement, digital metrology and quality control at Expo Kielce

Industrial metrology, non-destructive testing, spectrometry, scanning and 3D measurement, as well as solutions for monitoring production parameters in real time – CONTROL-TECH 2026 demonstrated that precision measurement is becoming one of the foundations of modern industry. The event was part of the Industrial Autumn 2026, which brought together more than 240 companies from 21 countries.

From the laboratory straight to the production line

This year’s CONTROL-TECH demonstrated just how quickly quality control technologies are evolving. More and more measurements are being carried out directly at the production site and during the process itself, with the results available for immediate use in adjusting production parameters. The stands featured analytical equipment, coordinate measuring systems, scanners and 3D solutions, spectrometers, material and non-destructive testing equipment, as well as automated quality control systems. A common thread running through many of the technologies was the speed at which data can be obtained, together with the ability to reduce errors and waste.

PI-SCNPRO – measuring and responding in real time

The practical importance of automated measurement was also addressed in expert presentations. One focused on the PI-SCNPRO system, which enables real-time monitoring of material parameters. Solutions of this kind can measure parameters such as thickness, grammage, density and moisture, allowing deviations from the required specifications to be detected during production rather than only when the finished product is inspected. The presentation highlighted how ‘Measure and Save Technology’ means using measurement not only for quality control, but also to save raw materials, reduce waste and improve process management.

GUM Office of Technical Inspection UDT and UDT Office of Technical Inspection UDT on measurement in modern industry

CONTROL-TECH also provided an opportunity for industry to meet institutions responsible for the quality and reliability of measurements. Dr Andrzej Kurkiewicz from the Central Office of Measures (GUM) presented ‘The Development of GUM Digital Services for Businesses’, outlining the direction in which access to metrology services for companies is evolving.

Robert Krajewski from the Office of Technical Inspection (UDT) discussed ensuring measurement traceability through effective supervision of measuring equipment. In practice, an accurate result is not simply a matter of having the right instrument – proper supervision, calibration and the ability to relate a measurement to recognised standards are equally important.

From XRF and LIBS to non-destructive testing

The trade fair programme also featured solutions for rapid material identification and composition analysis. During his presentation in English, ‘Faster Alloy Verification for Foundries: Elvatech XRF Solutions’, Vladyslav Bush from Elvatech discussed the use of XRF technology for rapid alloy verification.

On the second day, specialists had the opportunity to expand their knowledge during the workshop ‘Which Spectrometer to Choose for Chemical Composition Analysis – XRF, LIBS or OES’. Jan Podgórski also presented the latest Shimadzu solutions for non-destructive testing. The agenda demonstrated how different analytical technologies can be selected according to the material, required level of accuracy and operating conditions.

Temperature precision matters too

Temperature measurement in demanding industrial processes was another important CONTROL-TECH theme. A presentation by experts from Guenther Polska was when speakers discussed innovations in the production and calibration of high-temperature thermocouples and how more precise measurements can help reduce losses in heat-treatment processes.

The ‘±1°C that changes everything’ slogan aptly captured the scale of the challenge. At temperatures exceeding 1,000°C, even minor differences can affect process quality. The solutions being developed make use of material research, simulations, machine learning and the concept of a digital twin of the laboratory.

CONTROL-TECH medals for Smart Solutions and LK Metrology Poland

The best solutions presented at this year’s CONTROL-TECH were recognised during the Industrial Autumn Gala. Medals went to Smart Solutions and LK Metrology Poland.

The gala also provided an opportunity to honour companies from the industry celebrating significant anniversaries. The new award-winnign products range includes ELVATECH on its 35th anniversary and Shim-Pol, which is celebrating 40 years in business.

Measurement is increasingly becoming part of the process, not its final stage

Three days of CONTROL-TECH 2026 highlighted a clear direction for the industry's development. Quality control is increasingly moving from the laboratory directly to the production floor, with measurement data used during the process itself. Faster measurement means a faster response, which can translate into fewer defects, lower material consumption and greater production consistency.