Precision High-tech Solutions in Industrial Sensing
Interview with Dr. Thomas Wißpeinter, Managing Director of Micro-Epsilon Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG
Since its beginnings in the 1960s, Micro-Epsilon Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG has developed into a leading provider in industrial sensing. Under the leadership of Dr. Thomas Wißpeinter, Dr. Alexander Wißpeintner, and Prof. Dr. Martin Sellen, the company focuses on innovative technologies and a strong international presence. In the conversation, Thomas Wißpeinter provides insights into how Micro-Epsilon secures and further expands its position through continuous innovation, global market opportunities, and a clear future strategy.
Since its foundation in 1968 by Franz Frischen, Micro-Epsilon Messtechnik GmbH & Co. KG has evolved from a small trading company in Hanover into a globally active specialist in industrial sensors, establishing itself in markets such as semiconductor technology, battery manufacturing, and satellite communications through innovative strength and global presence. The company started as a trading firm for sensor products from the USA and was later relocated to Ortenburg in Lower Bavaria. After the founding family retired, the father of today's managing directors joined and started producing their sensors. The initial products focused on precise distance measurements, specifically used in mechanical engineering for monitoring and controlling production processes. From the beginning, Micro-Epsilon continuously expanded its portfolio in industrial sensors and consistently focused on technological development. The integration of optical sensors from Dresden and precision mechanical technology from Czechia laid the foundation for the company's international orientation.
Innovations and Market Leadership
A key to success is the high investment in research and development. 15% of revenue is invested in this area, allowing Micro-Epsilon to continuously bring innovative products to the market. "Our products are 90% self-developed and produced, which allows us to optimally protect our technology and know-how," explains Thomas Wißpeintner. Among the latest innovations is the thicknessGAUGE 3D, a sensor system for inline profile evaluation and 3D measurement, used in battery production as well as in strip and plate material. Particularly in battery production, Micro-Epsilon has made important contributions to quality assurance. The precise coating of battery foil and the measurement of layer thickness with micrometer accuracy are crucial for the performance of modern batteries. In the semiconductor industry, the company supports core processes such as lithography by supplying over 1000 sensors per machine. "Since 2017, we have been a strategic partner of Zeiss SMT, who supply the main optical modules for ASML in the Netherlands," adds Thomas Wißpeintner proudly.
International Presence and Employee Development
Micro-Epsilon has early invested in internationalization and has been active in the USA and China for over 20 years. In recent years, the distribution network in Asia has been further expanded, enabling the company to flexibly respond to challenges in the German market. "Our export share is directly at 50%, indirectly through Tier-1 deliveries even over 80%," explains Thomas Wißpeintner. Production is concentrated in Germany and neighboring countries, while the international distribution network strengthens global market presence. With 1,700 employees worldwide, 600 of which are at the headquarters in Ortenburg, Micro-Epsilon places great emphasis on training and employee development. "We have 50 apprentices in-house, work closely with universities, and offer scholarships and a dual study program," reports Thomas Wißpeintner. The commitment even extends to kindergartens and schools to foster enthusiasm for technology early on. The company is also active in the community and supports local projects to create an attractive work environment. Promoting a positive corporate culture contributes significantly to employee satisfaction.
Challenges and Future Visions
Micro-Epsilon faces numerous challenges, especially from international competition. "Our strength lies in working closely with our customers and being involved in their developments at an early stage," emphasizes Thomas Wißpeintner. The intense competition forces the company to remain constantly innovative. Without growth, it is hardly possible for technology companies to be successful in the long term. Therefore, Micro-Epsilon focuses on strategic growth, both through its own efforts and through targeted partnerships. The company develops micromechanical systems like tilting mirrors that can precisely control laser beams. Despite the broad market orientation, the focus remains on core areas such as semiconductors, batteries, and the emerging satellite communications. Thomas Wißpeintner emphasizes the importance of planning security, less bureaucracy, and tax incentives to secure Germany's competitiveness.
He sees the migration of capital abroad as a great danger. Digitalization also plays a crucial role. "Purely analog is now unimaginable," says Thomas Wißpeintner. Modern AI methods and the evaluation of measurement data enable deep machine integration. An example is the precise application on battery foils, which is monitored with micrometer accuracy at a speed of 50 m per minute. This allows an increase in product quality and performance. With a revenue of 170 million EUR at the headquarters and 350 million EUR group-wide, Micro-Epsilon is on a growth course. The recent award with "Bayerns Best 50" confirms the above-average growth of over 20% in the last three years and 15% over the long term. The managing director notes, however, that it becomes more difficult with increasing size. "As a medium-sized company, it is crucial to be close to the market to identify trends early and invest in new areas. Thus, we turn sensor technology into the future," he concludes.