Mahr Expands Surface Measurement Portfolio with OptoSurf Scattered Light Technology Acquisition

German metrology leader showcases new MarSurf3D scattered light sensors at Control 2025, revolutionizing inline surface measurement capabilities

Published: [05-08-25] | Category: Surface Measurement Technology

Mahr, the renowned Göttingen-based metrology manufacturer, has significantly expanded its surface measurement capabilities through the strategic acquisition of OptoSurf GmbH in 2024. The Ettlingen-based company’s scattered light technology will debut as part of Mahr’s MarSurf3D family at Control 2025 in Stuttgart, marking a major advancement in industrial surface metrology.

Revolutionary Scattered Light Technology for Manufacturing

The integration of OptoSurf’s portfolio opens new frontiers in tribology applications, providing Mahr customers with cutting-edge inline measurement solutions. These advanced scattered light sensors deliver nanometer-precision surface analysis in harsh manufacturing environments, combining robustness with exceptional speed and accuracy.

New MarSurf3D Scattered Light Product Range

MarSurf3D Sensor OS 500: High-Speed Inline Measurement

The OS 500 scattered light sensor represents a breakthrough in inline surface measurement technology. Designed for seamless integration into machine control systems, this sensor excels in:

• Grinding and finishing machine monitoring
• Roller and sheet steel quality control
• Roller bearing surface analysis
• Real-time roughness and waviness evaluation

The 8 kHz version specifically targets large surface measurements, making it ideal for roller applications where traditional measurement methods fall short.

MarSurf3D OptoRack: Ball Screw Drive Optimization

Engineered specifically for ball screw drive applications in machine tools and steering systems, the OptoRack addresses critical quality control challenges:

• Process monitoring during grinding and finishing
• Separate measurement of left and right raceway paths
• Swivel axis technology for comprehensive spindle analysis
• Critical for steering system efficiency and noise reduction

MarSurf3D OptoShaft: Precision Bearing Seat Measurement

The OptoShaft tackles one of manufacturing’s most demanding challenges – detecting micro-waviness in bearing seats:

• Detects waviness amplitudes below 0.05 μm
• Real-time chatter mark identification
• Prevents noise issues in needle bearing applications
• Robust design for production floor deployment

MarSurf3D OptoWorm: Electric Power Steering Excellence

Specifically developed for electric power steering applications, the OptoWorm ensures optimal worm gearbox performance:

• Complete functional area measurement of screw flanks
• Left and right flank analysis capabilities
• Critical for force transmission optimization
• Production-ready robustness

Strategic Vision for Surface Metrology

Manuel Hüsken, CEO of the Carl Mahr Group, emphasizes the strategic importance of this acquisition: “For Mahr, the addition of OptoSurf scattered light technology is an ideal complement to the existing systems. This is because it allows surface characteristics to be measured extremely accurately down to the nanometer range in harsh manufacturing environments, robustly and extremely quickly.”

Industry Impact and Applications

The OptoSurf acquisition positions Mahr at the forefront of several critical manufacturing sectors:

• Automotive industry: Enhanced quality control for steering systems and drivetrain components
• Machine tool manufacturing: Improved precision in ball screw and bearing applications
• Industrial machinery: Advanced surface monitoring for rollers and grinding applications
• Quality assurance: Nanometer-level precision in production environments

Control 2025 Showcase

Visitors to Control 2025 in Stuttgart will experience firsthand demonstrations of these groundbreaking scattered light measurement technologies. The exhibition represents the first public showcase of the complete MarSurf3D scattered light portfolio, highlighting Mahr’s commitment to innovation in industrial metrology.

Future of Surface Measurement

This acquisition reinforces Mahr’s position as a global leader in surface measurement technology, combining traditional expertise with revolutionary scattered light capabilities. The integration of OptoSurf technology represents a significant leap forward in inline measurement precision and manufacturing process optimization.

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About Mahr Mahr is a leading German manufacturer of precision measurement equipment, based in Göttingen. With over 160 years of experience, the company specializes in dimensional and surface metrology solutions for industrial applications worldwide.

Tags: #SurfaceMeasurement #ScatteredLight #Metrology #ManufacturingTechnology #QualityControl #InlineMeasurement #Control2025 #Mahr #OptoSurf