Precise. Compliant. Consistent.
Technical Translation
Our native speakers translate operating instructions, data sheets and CE documentation true to terminology and, on request, in accordance with ISO 17100.
What is a Technical Translation?
A technical translation involves rendering specialised content, such as operating instructions, safety notices, data sheets and software interfaces, into another language while ensuring that the terminology, meaning and function remain intact. This requires translators with a background in the relevant industry and knowledge of the terminology, as well as a documented quality process.
At COMLOGOS, translations are carried out by native-speaking specialised translators with industry experience. On request, this is followed by a revision in line with ISO 17100 under the four-eyes principle. Translation memory and a terminology database ensure consistent terminology across documents, variants and product generations.
This differs from AI-assisted translations with post-editing (MTPE) in accordance with ISO 18587. This is a separate, scalable process designed for large text volumes. We assess in advance which approach suits your content.
What makes this service stand out
First-hand industry expertise
Our specialised translators have experience in the relevant industry. Since 2007, we have been supporting technology-oriented customers, ranging from mechanical and plant engineering to electrical engineering and process engineering.
Regulatory compliance
Our translations are fully aligned with CE marking, available in the respective national language, and tailored to the Machinery Regulation. If required, this is carried out in line with ISO 17100, with revision based on the four-eyes principle.
Consistency through linguistic assets
Translation Memory and Terminology Database ensure consistent terminology across documents, variants and product generations, and reduce the effort involved in updates.
Why is language a factor in CE marking and the Machinery Regulation?
In the EU, machinery can only be placed on the market if the accompanying documentation is provided in the language of the respective Member State. Therefore, an accurate translation of the operating instructions, safety notices and declarations of conformity is an integral part of CE marking and not just a formality.
From 20 January 2027, the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 will replace the current Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. Among other changes, digital operating instructions will be permitted, but the requirement for multilingual documentation will remain in place. Those maintaining instructions and safety notices in multiple languages are well placed to plan for this change in advance.
We provide comprehensive language solutions to support CE marking. These are terminologically consistent and, upon request, can include a revision in accordance with ISO 17100.
How your technical translation comes together
Request & analysis
You send us your documents. We review the content and format, clarify any open questions and recommend the most suitable approach.
Quote
Pricing is based on the number of words in the source language. We transparently pass on repetitions and matches from the translation memory. There are no hidden flat fees.
Specialised translation
Native-speaking specialised translators with an industry background translate the text, drawing on translation memory and standardised terminology.
Revision in line with the four-eyes principle
For projects handled in line with ISO 17100, a second qualified specialist translator checks the translation against the source text.
Final check and delivery
A final review by project management, followed by delivery in the agreed format. On request, this can include foreign-language typesetting (DTP).
Technical documents we translate
Operating and instruction manuals
Complete, easy to understand and in the respective language.
Installation and maintenance manuals
For commissioning, service and maintenance.
Safety instructions and declarations of conformity
Safety-critical content handled with particular care.
Manuals and technical documentation
Extensive documentation with recurring terminology.
Product data sheets and catalogues
Structured product information in high volumes.
Training materials
Training and instruction material for multiple locations.
Process descriptions
Procedural and process documentation.
Software and UI files
Interface texts and strings with clear specifications.
CAD drawings
Labelling and parts lists within technical drawings.
Damage analyses and reports
Consistent language in recurring formats.
Where AI-assisted translation with post-editing plays to its strengths
AI-assisted translations with post-editing are particularly effective for technical content. They deliver fast, consistent and cost-efficient results without compromising subject-matter accuracy or quality.
Large volumes and tight deadlines
Extensive documentation can be translated into multiple languages quickly and predictably.
High repetition rate
Translation memory and terminology ensure seamless consistency across entire document sets.
Updates and variants
New product versions and language variants can be updated efficiently without having to retranslate everything from scratch.
For special cases with particular requirements, such as translations that must comply with ISO 17100, we continue to offer traditional specialised translation services. Not sure which approach is right for your text? We are happy to advise you.
The technology behind consistent translations
Industries we provide technical translations for
A selection of the industries we specialise in.
Mechanical Engineering
We translate operating instructions, CE documentation and design documents for mechanical engineering into all target languages.
Learn more
Control Cabinet Manufacturing & Control Systems Technology
We translate PLC code, terminal diagrams and control cabinet documentation accurately for worldwide commissioning.
Learn more
Electrical Engineering & Digital Industry
We provide specialised translations across the entire ZVEI sector, from component data sheets to Industry 4.0 solutions.
Learn moreFair, transparent pricing
We charge for technical specialist translations based on the number of words in the source text. Repetitions and translation memory matches are passed on transparently, with no hidden flat fees for preparation or project management. Quotes are always free of charge.
Specialised translation
By qualified native-speaker specialised translators with industry experience.
Translation in accordance with ISO 17100 including revision
Additional review applying the four-eyes principle (approximately 30% surcharge compared to the specialised translation).
AI-assisted translations with post-editing
In accordance with ISO 18587 (around 30–50% more cost-effective than specialised translation).
A first assessment is provided by our Price Calculator. For our word price list, please contact our project management team.
What our clients say about our technical translations
'For the translation of technical specialist texts, COMLOGOS has been our reliable partner for years. Working with COMLOGOS is always straightforward and fast, whatever the language, and the quality of the translation is always the highest.'ek roboticsTechnical Documentation
'Thanks to COMLOGOS's precise and reliable translations, our manuals now speak the right language worldwide. A real asset for our international presence!'Process InsightsProcurement
'As one of the world's leading companies in the demanding field of impregnation and drying of electrical components, we use COMLOGOS for all our translation needs. Working with COMLOGOS is marked by consistently high-quality translations and reliable delivery times.'Meier-Prozesstechnik GmbHMarketing
'Fast turnaround, good pricing, high-quality texts — what more could you ask of a translation service? We've worked closely with COMLOGOS for several years and have consistently been satisfied with the results. Our customers receive only the best, and the documentation is part of that.'Zeltwanger Laser Robotic ApplicationsDevelopment/Design Engineering
Language pairs for technical translation
We translate in more than 100 language combinations, always following the native-speaker principle.
Knowledge & Resources
CE conformity, translation quality and AI
What technical documentation teams need to know about legal certainty, product liability and market access.
Blog · 21/05/2025Technical translations require translator excellence
How directives, standards and guidelines shape specialised translation.
Blog · 06/06/2024AI-assisted translations in practice: Human vs machine
Where AI tools stand today and where humans still make the final call.
Blog · 13/12/2024Before translation: translation-friendly writing and editorial support.
Good translations start with the source text. We support your technical writing team from the outset, providing consistent terminology, clear writing rules and reviewable source texts. This reduces effort, error risk and cost across every language.
Translation-friendly writing
Short, unambiguous sentences and consistent terminology can be translated more quickly and affordably with fewer errors.
Terminology from the outset
A shared termbase for writing and translation keeps terms consistent across all documents.
Clean source file formats
Structured documentation (XML/DITA, FrameMaker) stays reusable across updates and languages.
More on this: Why translation-oriented writing makes sense · Terminology management
Frequently asked questions about technical translations
What is the difference between a technical specialised translation and an AI-assisted translation with post-editing?
A classic specialist translation is produced entirely by a specialist translator who is a native speaker. It can be produced on request and includes a four-eyes revision in line with ISO 17100. AI-assisted translation with post-editing, in accordance with ISO 18587, uses a controlled engine whose output is then checked and revised by specialist translators. This approach is faster and can handle large volumes effectively. The most suitable approach depends on the type of text, the risk involved, and your objectives — we will assess this for you in advance.
Why is the Machinery Regulation relevant for technical translation?
In the EU, machinery can only be placed on the market if the accompanying documentation is provided in the language of the respective Member State. Therefore, an accurate translation of the operating instructions, safety notices and declarations of conformity is an integral part of CE marking. From 20 January 2027, the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 will replace the current Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC; however, the requirement for multilingual documentation will remain in place.
Do you work in accordance with ISO 17100?
Yes. On request, we provide a specialised translation in accordance with ISO 17100, including revision by a second qualified specialised translator (four-eyes principle). COMLOGOS is certified to ISO 9001, ISO 17100 and ISO 18587.
How do you ensure consistent terminology across projects?
We use two language assets: a central terminology database that sets binding terms and a translation memory that stores every reviewed translation. This ensures that terms remain consistent across documents, variants, and product generations. It also means that only the parts that have changed need to be retranslated when updates occur.
Which technical documents do you translate?
We translate a wide range of documents, including operating and user manuals, installation and maintenance manuals, safety notices, declarations of conformity, handbooks, product data sheets, catalogues, training materials, process descriptions, software and UI files, and CAD drawings. We also handle foreign-language typesetting (DTP) on request.
Which languages do you translate into?
We translate in more than 100 language combinations, from and into the major business languages as well as numerous other languages. We follow the native-speaker principle, as our translators work into their native language and are familiar with the specialist terminology of the target market.
How is the price calculated, and is the quote free of charge?
We charge for technical charges specialist translations based on the number of words in the source text. Repetitions and translation memory matches are passed on transparently, with no hidden flat fees for preparation or project management. Quotes are always free of charge.
How quickly do you deliver? Are express translations possible?
The turnaround time depends on the text volume and the language combination and is specified in the quote. Express translations are possible by prior agreement. For large volumes under tight deadlines, AI-assisted translations with post-editing are often the faster option.
Let’s discuss your technical translation project
Send us your documents and we will provide you with a well-founded assessment of the best approach, the effort involved and the terminology setup. Personal support, confidential, without detours.
ISO 17100 · ISO 18587 · ISO 9001 · LICS · four-eyes principle
