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    33451 - Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing

    Navigational technology, precision measurement, state-of-the-art medical devices, and precise control instruments – these are the critical products driving innovation in many industries today. If you’re involved in producing any of these technologies, then NAICS code 33451 is central to your business classification. Understanding this sector can help manufacturers, government contractors, and suppliers align their products and services for maximum market impact.

    What is NAICS Code 33451?

    NAICS code 33451 defines the industry sector known as Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing. This code encompasses establishments primarily engaged in the production of a broad range of highly technical instruments and equipment used for:

    • Navigation
    • Measurement
    • Control processes
    • Electromedical applications

    These instruments are vital across multiple industries including aerospace, healthcare, maritime, environmental monitoring, and manufacturing automation.

    Sector Overview

    • Sector: Manufacturing
    • This industry is part of the broader manufacturing sector focused on technology-driven product development and precision engineering.
    • Businesses under NAICS 33451 combine advanced electronics, mechanics, and software systems to produce devices that facilitate critical operations.

    Typical Business Activities under NAICS 33451

    Companies classified under NAICS 33451 typically engage in the:

    • Manufacture of navigational instruments such as GPS devices, compasses, sonar equipment, and inertial navigation systems.
    • Production of measuring instruments including flow meters, pressure gauges, thermometers, and gas analyzers for various industrial and commercial applications.
    • Manufacture of electromedical equipment like MRI machines, ultrasound devices, electrocardiographs, and other diagnostic and therapeutic medical instrumentation.
    • Development of control instruments utilized in automation, robotics, and process control such as controllers for industrial machinery, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and sensor devices.

    NAICS Code 33451 Size Standards for Eligibility

    For small business size classification under NAICS 33451, the SBA (Small Business Administration) typically sets the size standard based on annual receipts or number of employees. The current standards are:

    • Maximum employee size: 1,250 employees
    • Alternatively, some specific subcategories may have different thresholds, but generally, businesses with 1,250 or fewer employees qualify as small businesses.

    Understanding size standards is crucial for businesses seeking federal contracts and government procurement opportunities.

    Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 33451

    • Manufacturers producing GPS navigation devices for aviation and maritime sectors
    • Firms creating precision flow meters used in oil and gas processing plants
    • Companies developing MRI and CT scan machines for hospitals and diagnostic centers
    • Businesses designing automated industrial controllers for factory machinery
    • Producers of pressure gauges and environmental sensors for climate monitoring

    NAICS Code 33451 Details Table

    Attribute Description
    NAICS Code 33451
    Title Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing
    Sector Manufacturing
    Industry Description Manufacturing instruments and related products used for navigation, measurement, control, and electromedical purposes
    Typical Products GPS devices, compasses, flow meters, pressure gauges, MRI machines, ultrasound devices, PLCs
    Size Standard 1,250 employees or less
    Primary Customers Aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing, maritime, environmental agencies

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    What products are included under NAICS 33451?

    This code includes navigational instruments (e.g., GPS units), measuring instruments (e.g., pressure gauges), electromedical devices (e.g., MRI machines), and control instruments (e.g., industrial controllers).

    Can my business qualify as a small business under NAICS 33451?

    Yes, if your business has 1,250 or fewer employees, it typically qualifies as a small business under this NAICS code for contract and procurement purposes.

    What industries rely on products from NAICS 33451?

    Key industries include aerospace, healthcare, manufacturing automation, maritime navigation, environmental monitoring, and defense sectors.

    How can knowledge of NAICS 33451 help my government contracting efforts?

    Recognizing your NAICS classification helps in targeting contracts, understanding eligibility for subcontracting opportunities, and marketing your products effectively to federal agencies.


    Navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments are at the core of today's high-tech manufacturing landscape. Knowing all about NAICS code 33451 can help businesses position themselves strategically within this vital industry sector.

    Whether you’re a manufacturer or supplier, leveraging this knowledge will open doors to greater government contracting opportunities and industry partnerships.


    Optimize your business opportunities by aligning with NAICS 33451 today.