During the AMPP Annual Conference + Expo 2026, Kristi McLemore, Account Manager – NDT Energy Sector at FARO Creaform, highlighted how portable 3D metrology is redefining standards for industrial inspection and field asset management.
In this context, FARO Creaform develops 3D scanning solutions and specialized software focused on inspection, quality control, and reverse engineering. The company is part of the AMETEK group and combines decades of experience in advanced measurement with innovation in industrial digitization.
Portable 3D metrology is based on devices capable of capturing complex geometries directly in the field. These scanners generate highly accurate digital models that represent an asset’s real condition.
Likewise, the value lies not only in the hardware; the associated software makes it possible to analyze the captured data and turn it into useful information for engineering, maintenance, or dimensional control.
In this way, companies can digitize parts, structures, or infrastructure without having to move them, which is especially relevant in sectors such as energy.
One of the biggest contributions of portable 3D metrology is improved operational efficiency. According to McLemore, these solutions increase speed, productivity, and repeatability compared with traditional methods.
In addition, they make it possible to create a permanent digital record of the asset in its current condition. This makes tracking over time easier and improves decision-making.
On the other hand, the use of analysis software drastically reduces evaluation times. Specifically, processes can be up to 90% faster than manual methods, which is a clear advantage in environments where time is critical.
The versatility of this technology makes it possible to cover multiple applications from a single data capture.
First, in reverse engineering, the digital models obtained are used to reconstruct geometries and generate parametric designs.
Likewise, in quality control, the data makes it possible to compare real parts with their specifications, accurately identifying deviations.
In addition, the creation of digital twins relies on these models to represent assets in digital environments, enabling simulations and advanced analysis.
In parallel, in the energy sector, these solutions play an important role in non-destructive testing and pipeline inspection, where accuracy and traceability are essential.
On the other hand, one of the elements that sets FARO Creaform apart in the market is the combination of portability and ease of use.
As McLemore explains, their solutions stand out for being highly portable, enabling direct field use without complex setups.
In addition, operational simplicity makes adoption easier for technical teams, reducing the learning curve.
Added to this is the quality of the data obtained, which maintains high standards even in demanding industrial environments.
However, adoption of portable 3D metrology still faces certain challenges; the main one is the technology’s upfront cost. In many cases, companies have doubts about the return on investment, especially if they are not familiar with its benefits.
Nevertheless, once they understand the impact on efficiency and time savings, perceptions change and adoption accelerates.
For its part, events like AMPP play a key role in promoting these solutions.
According to McLemore, being present at this type of conference makes it possible to showcase the technology to professionals who are not yet familiar with its scope.
In addition, it facilitates knowledge exchange on industry standards, especially in areas such as pipelines, where regulation is a determining factor.
Portable 3D metrology is becoming established as a crucial tool in industrial digitization.
Thanks to its ability to capture accurate data, speed up analysis, and unify multiple applications into a single workflow, this technology meets the current needs of demanding sectors such as energy.
As a result, solutions like those developed by FARO Creaform continue to gain ground in an environment where efficiency, accuracy, and traceability are increasingly important.
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Source: Inspenet.
