The National Physical Laboratory (
NPL) has spun out a new company,
K3 Metrology, to commercialise a real-time, traceable measurement technology designed to support advanced manufacturing, with backing from the Government Office for Technology Transfer (GOTT).
The spinout centres on Metralis, a laser-based measurement platform developed at NPL to address a long-standing challenge in advanced manufacturing: how to accurately measure large and complex structures during production rather than waiting until final inspection.
In sectors such as aerospace, where tolerances are tight and rework is costly, the ability to assess and correct performance as components are being built can deliver significant productivity and quality gains.
Metralis enables accurate, real-time measurement of large-scale components and is designed to be self-calibrating, providing high-precision, traceable data throughout the manufacturing process. The technology has its roots in NPL’s wider mission to develop world-leading measurement science that underpins confidence in manufacturing, trade and innovation across the UK economy.
While the technical feasibility of Metralis had been demonstrated, NPL needed a route to scale the technology commercially while continuing to deliver public benefit. That led to the creation of K3 Metrology, accelerated to market through NPL’s internal spinout framework. The framework sets out a structured, five-stage pathway from idea development through to company formation, covering governance, decision-making, equity and licensing arrangements.
K3 Metrology was the first spinout to be evaluated and approved using the full framework, allowing NPL to test its approach against a live project and refine processes for future spinouts. The new company now commercialises Metralis as a platform technology for advanced manufacturing environments where measurement accuracy and traceability are essential.
The project was supported by grant funding from the Government Office for Technology Transfer’s Knowledge Asset Grant Fund. Alongside funding to help develop a working prototype, GOTT provided commercialisation advice, including support in mapping a route to market and engaging with potential investors. The package was intended to de-risk early development and strengthen the case for external investment.
Phil Cooper, technology transfer leader at NPL, said the support was critical in enabling the spinout to happen.
He commented: “We certainly wouldn’t be here today if we hadn’t had GOTT support, that’s for sure. GOTT funding was crucial in enabling us to bring Metralis to market.”
Beyond the immediate commercial opportunity, the case is being highlighted as an example of how public sector organisations can translate platform technologies into market-ready solutions while maintaining alignment with organisational missions and public value.
With a £2.75 million seed investment raised in March 2026, K3 Metrology is now moving into its next phase. The company plans to complete product development, expand its team at its base in North Wales and establish early commercial proof points with customers in advanced manufacturing sectors.
Pic: NPL