“We are guided by the principle of providing handy service instruments of good value for practical use.” (From a 1965 Metra catalog)
Metra Today
Metra is an internationally established manufacturer of piezoelectric vibration measurement technology with a wide product range. The company employs about 25 people in development, production and administration. Due to its size, Metra is able to react flexibly to customer requirements. Michael Weber is the third generation to lead the family business.
In 1954, the company name was changed to Metra, an acronym for “Messtechnik Radebeul”. Metra manufactured instruments for the company Clamann & Grahnert in Dresden.
Under the leadership of Prof. Lenk and Dr. Erler, the first developments of piezoelectric vibration sensors began at Metra. The catalyst for the introduction of this then novel sensor technology was the development of jet engines for passenger aircraft in Pirna / Saxony.
From an initial few transducer types, an extensive range quickly developed. In addition, Metra developed and manufactured measuring amplifiers, vibration meters and calibrators. Piezo ceramics was also developed and produced in-house. Since 1970 metra offered accelerometers with shear type sensing elements.
In accordance with the economic policy of the GDR, the private company became state-owned VEB Metra Meß- und Frequenztechnik. This had profound consequences for further development. However, due to its profitability and high export rate, the company retained a certain independence for the time being. In addition to the production of piezo measurement technology, contract manufacturing of low-frequency measurement equipment continued. The product range was extended by cinema sound and blood oxygen (PO2) measurement equipment.
In 1981 Metra was incorporated into the state holding Kombinat Präcitronic, but kept its name and products.
In the 1980s, Metra became the monopoly supplier of vibration sensors in the Eastern European economic zone of RGW. The main customer was the Soviet Union with a volume of over 30,000 sensors per year.
In 1990, Metra was reprivatized to Manfred Weber, the son of the founder. A fundamental reorientation to the markets in Western Europe and overseas presented the company with major sales challenges. Metra was now focusing exclusively on vibration measurement products. The product ranges cinema sound, oxygen measurement and NF measurement instruments were abandoned.
Signal Conditioners
Vibration Meters
Vibration Calibrators
Human Vibration
Building Vibration
PC Data Acquisition
Cables and accessories
