What is a technical translation?
Technical translation or specialist translation refers to the process of transferring the results of technical editing – specialist texts, documentation and communication – from the source language into a target language. This type of translation is used in various industrial sectors, such as mechanical and plant engineering or electrical engineering.
A technical translation is much more than simply transferring words. It requires a deep understanding of the technical language and specific terminology of the field in question. Technical translators must be able to translate complex technical concepts accurately and comprehensibly to ensure that the information is conveyed correctly and completely.
Frequently translated document and text types include
:
- Operating instructions
- Assembly instructions
- Overview of technical data
- Display texts
- Technical manuals
- Safety data sheets
- Maintenance manuals
- Software documentation
- Product catalogs
Quality standards to ensure product safety
In Europe, the CE Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC forms the most important legal basis for mechanical engineering companies. This directive ensures that machines and systems can be operated safely and reliably. A precise and high-quality translation of the technical documentation is essential to ensure product safety.
Certified (ISO17100) translations are important and a prerequisite here. They ensure that the translations meet the high quality requirements and are correct in complex technical contexts and structures. Errors in technical documentation can have serious consequences, so the quality and comprehensibility of the translations is of the utmost importance.
Supporting technical methods
Various supporting technical methods are used to ensure the quality of technical translations:
- Use of translation memory systems (TMS): These systems store previously translated texts and terms to ensure consistency in future translations. This saves time and reduces the error rate.
- Terminology management together with the customer: By working closely with the customer, specific technical terms and terminology can be defined and used consistently. This contributes to the clarity and consistency of the translations.
- Professional query management: Effective query management enables translators to clarify ambiguities quickly and precisely. This improves the accuracy and quality of translations.
- AI-supported translations with benefits: Artificial intelligence (AI) can help make translations more efficient. AI-powered translation tools provide valuable support, especially for large volumes of text, and can be refined by human translators to achieve the highest accuracy.
Technical translations are an indispensable part of modern industrial and production processes. They help to ensure that products can be used safely and efficiently worldwide. By ensuring accurate and high-quality translations, technical translators play a crucial role in guaranteeing product safety and quality.
