Oxford Instruments plc announced that it is has agreed to acquire
HKL Technology A/S (HKL), a
leading manufacturer of Electron BackScatter Diffraction (EBSD) systems, based in Hobro,
Denmark. HKL will become part of the
Oxford Instruments Analytical (OIA) business.
HKL, led by Niels-Henrik Schmidt, will provide Oxford Instruments with a world-class development team and considerable expertise in EBSD product technology. Oxford Instruments' global sales and service infrastructure will fully exploit HKL's capabilities, adding a significant competitive advantage that will give OIA's
analysis/order_t/'>microanalysis suite of systems a market leading position.
EBSD is used to produce a microstructural analysis of a material. This information can be used to predict the properties such as
corrosion behaviour, creep, fatigue life, cracking and failure mechanism. It is used in a wide variety of industries - aerospace, automotive, defence,
semiconductors,
power plants, and
chemical plants. It is used, for example, in
failure analysis, to check that engine components are protected from corrosive environments that can cause fatigue and cracking. Its use minimises material wastage and
maintenance costs, and maximises durability and
safety.
Nigel Keen, Chairman of Oxford Instruments said, "Following the recent successful integration of the
Metorex acquisition into our Analytical business, the acquisition of HKL continues our drive to deliver the high calibre products and
services demanded by our customers. The combination of HKL's leading technology and Oxford Instruments' strength in the microanalysis market is expected to lead to significant growth opportunities for both businesses."