Smart Manufacturing

Gotion to build battery export base in ASEAN countries

Gotion High-tech has signed a cooperation agreement with Nuovo Plus of Thailand-based PTT Group, to set up a joint venture called Thailand’s NV Gotion Co., LTD (NV Gotion for short). The joint venture focuses on the design, development, manufacturing, sales and export of battery modules and pack products, and aims to explore the ASEAN new energy market and build a battery export base in ASEAN. The PTT Group is the largest state-controlled energy and petrochemical company in Thailand. The partnership will help Thailand achieve full electrification and net zero carbon emissions by 2065. The business scope of the joint venture includes the design, development, validation and manufacturing of battery modules and battery packs, and battery management systems for a wide range of vehicles and energy storage systems. NV Gotion plans to build a lithium-ion power battery pack production line in the Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand. By the fourth quarter of 2023, the first phase of the production line is expected to be put into production and provide high-quality battery products to the market. NV Gotion will actively explore new energy markets in the ASEAN member states while realising local battery manufacturing and market development in Thailand. It is committed to building the battery export base in ASEAN. PTT Group, a Fortune 500 company, is Thailand’s largest state-controlled energy and petrochemical company. Nuovo Plus of PTT Group is dedicated to providing energy solutions. NV Gotion plays an important role in conducting the battery business to strengthen renewable energy production and support the electric vehicle industry supply chain. It will help Thailand use more sustainable energy and support PTT Group’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2065 in Thailand. By combining the strengths of both sides to develop sustainable supply […]

South Korea’s shipbuilding expected to lead manufacturing sectors in export growth

South Korea’s shipbuilding exports this year are expected to jump 76.1% from last year to $32.4 billion to lead all major manufacturing industries in the category. Forecasts predict a big year for the country’s three biggest shipbuilders, which have landed orders for high value-added ships such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. The government-run Korea Development Bank (KDB) on Wednesday in a report on this year’s industrial prospects said ship exports will reach an estimated $32.4 billion, or 76.1% or $18.4 billion more than last year. A KDB source said, “The export amount will see major growth due to the base effect from last year’s decline in construction volume and rising prices for new vessels.” Shipbuilding is also expected to lead export growth among the nine major manufacturing sectors including steel, cars, general machinery, petrochemicals, semiconductors, displays and mobile phones. Shipments of steel are expected to grow just 2.8% and cars 2.1% due to sluggish demand, while those of petrochemicals will inch up just 0.8%, a huge drop from 5.4% last year. The KDB report added that exports of semiconductors will fall 9.8% and those of displays 13.7%. The Korea International Trade Association (KITA) also named shipbuilding as the only major manufacturing sector to see an extended export boom. KITA uses its export business survey index (EBSI) to gauge the perception of economic conditions of exporting companies, with a base score of 100. A figure of under 100 means more companies are pessimistic over business prospects than those that are optimistic. The EBSI for all industries in this year’s first quarter reached 81.8, but shipbuilding’s was 146.5, foreshadowing lucrative prospects in all categories of the sector like export unit price, international logistics, manufacturing cost and export profitability. The industries with the bleakest prospects were petroleum product exports with an EBSI […]

China develops key equipment for chip manufacturing

Workers check semiconductor products at a manufacturing factory in Ganzhou, East China’s Jiangxi Province on November 24,2022. Photo: VCG China’s first MLLAS-100 laser annealer dedicated to quantum chip production has been successfully developed, a move aimed at solving instability and increasing production quality when the number of quantum bits increase, according to Chinese media reports. Functioning as a “scalpel”, the MLLAS-100 laser annealer can accurately remove “defects” in quantum chips and enhance chips performance when expanding to multiple bits, stdaily.com reported on Wednesday. The laser annealer is independently researched and developed by Origin Quantum Computing Technology Co based in Hefei, East China’s Anhui Province, and can reach a hundred nanometer ultra-high positioning accuracy in a bid to achieve the laser annealing in a single quantum bit. The laser anneal technique can directionally control the frequency parameters of modified quantum bits, and solve the problem of qubit frequency crowding in multi-bit expansion. The laser annealer is like a “scalpel” for a doctor performing surgery, which can be used to improve the production quality of quantum chips by solving targeted problems following issues detected by the nondestructive probe electrical measurement platform, said Jia Zhilong, deputy director of Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center. Named NDPT-100, China’s first nondestructive probe electrical measurement platform was launched by Origin Quantum in December, which will be used in production of chips for quantum computers. It can realize fast and accurate measurement of quantum bit resistance, identify the quality of quantum chips with almost zero damage, according to the report. Just like the lithography machine is a basic industrial machine for the manufacturing of traditional chips, the instrument is one of the most important industrial machines for quantum chip manufacturing, which will significantly shorten the R&D cycle of quantum chips while improving quality, Jia said in a […]

Dassault Systemes hybrid forum successful

Dassault Systemes recently held the final and virtual edition of its inaugural hybrid 3DEXPERIENCE Forum Asia Pacific South 2022 events. Themed ‘Building Resiliency for Sustainable Success with Virtual Twin Experiences’, the hybrid Forum also featured an in-person edition attended by over 250 business leaders and technologists, which was organised across eight cities – Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Bekasi City, Jakarta, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore – in five countries. At the events, distinguished speakers and subject matter experts spoke about how businesses can seize growth opportunities and build resilience by leveraging virtual twin technologies. Participants also discussed the need for businesses to embrace new ways of working, strive for futureproof operations, and the importance of being agile to manoeuvre through risks in a dynamic business environment. Josephine Ong, Managing Director, Asia Pacific South, Dassault Systèmes, commented: “We’re pleased to bring back this year’s 3DEXPERIENCE Forum in a hybrid format after holding virtual events over the past two years. The in-person roundtable sessions have been extremely fruitful, providing us with the opportunity to connect better with our customers and partners in the region. We have been able to showcase how the virtual twin can support businesses in mitigating changes in consumer habits, optimising manufacturing processes and creating a positive impact on the environment. More importantly, our goal is to enable businesses to futureproof their operations and drive growth in an ever-evolving business climate.” Dassault Systèmes’ virtual twin experiences enable businesses to visualise, model, simulate and optimise the entire product lifecycle. A virtual twin experience starts with the designing of a 3D model that represents the dimensions, properties and dependencies of the physical object. Simulations on the virtual model explore how the object behaves when assembled, operated or in relation to other systems that allow the analysis and creation of […]

Meeting the growing demand for seamless cold chain solutions in air cargo

Lödige Industries has completed an automated Cold Chain Pallet-Cargo System at Hong Kong International Airport. Via its Hong Kong office, the German company, planned, manufactured and implemented the advanced system for AAT COOLPORT, which is the first on-airport cold chain facility in Hong Kong providing a complete temperature-controlled environment, operated by Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT). Supported by the tailor-made pallet moving solution, the operator can maintain strictly regulated cold chains seamlessly and respond to the increasing global demand for temperature-sensitive air transports. The customised and automated material handling system is designed for fast and safe transport of temperature-sensitive goods inside the cold chain facility. Modern and climate-resistant sensors in combination with an enhanced maintenance and control system ensure an efficient and safe flow of fragile goods. Lödige Industries was awarded the contract for the project because it met both the high-quality requirements for stringent cold chain regulations and was able to achieve short turnaround timelines. The market for temperature-sensitive goods, like pharmaceuticals, and perishables, is currently the strongest growing market in air freight worldwide. Given the rapid planning and implementation of the automated ULD handling system, AAT is able to meet the rapidly growing demand of its customers for temperature-sensitive air cargo as well as strict cold chain regulations. “The sector for temperature-sensitive goods is becoming a very important market for our customers”, says Yammie Sin, Chief Marketing Officer at Asia Airfreight Terminal. “Seamless compliance with cold chain regulations is enormously important, so we are investing in the most reliable and efficient equipment for our new cold storage facility COOLPORT. “This also allows AAT to offer services that were previously unavailable in Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), such as temperature-controlled truck docks, the ability to screen, build up and break down cargo entirely within a temperature-controlled environment. With Lödige Industries, […]

Unilever expands investments in the Philippines with Php4.8B plant in Cavite

British firm Unilever PLC, one of the world’s largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies, has reaffirmed its belief in the Philippines as an attractive manufacturing hub by investing Php4.8 billion thru its Philippine subsidiary, Unilever Phils. Inc. (UPI) in putting up a new plant in Gateway Business Park, General Trias, Cavite. “We expressed to President Marcos our long-term commitment to sustainable and responsible growth in the country and we are optimistic that our new Php4.8 billion investment in a future-fit personal care factory in Cavite will contribute to the Philippine manufacturing sector’s competitiveness as we employ highly advanced technologies, with the potential to qualify the facility for the World Economic Forum’s ‘Advanced Fourth Industrial Revolution Lighthouse’,” said Benjie Yap, Unilever Philippines Chairman. Trade Undersecretary and Board of Investments (BOI) Managing Head Ceferino Rodolfo meanwhile said the manufacturing expansion plan of UPI further amplifies the company’s vision to be one of the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) that has retained its manufacturing base here in the Philippines while upgrading its manufacturing operations to become a world-class leader in the production of personal care products. “Unilever’s investment is in line with Philippines vision to be a hub for sustainable manufacturing products powered by renewable energy,” he said. Unilever’s expansion plan involves the manufacturing of personal care products which includes hair care and skin care products as well as deodorants. The BOI recently approved the plan with an annual capacity of 88,000 tons. It will employ up to 130 people. Commercial operations are expected to begin this December 2022 with the formal inauguration of the plant expected in the first quarter of 2023. The company, with global revenues of around US$60 billion annually, has recognized the need for comprehensive solutions to address plastic pollution in the country. As one of the leading consumer goods […]

Secutech Vietnam to relocate to Hanoi in July 2023

Secutech Vietnam is taking the opportunity to attract more fire safety and security industry players from the north of the country by moving to the Friendship Cultural Palace in Hanoi for its 2023 edition. Benefiting from strong official links with local authorities, the upcoming fair will cooperate with the Vietnam Fire Department and the Ministry of Public Security to celebrate the 61st Anniversary of the Traditional Day of the People’s Police Force during the three-day fair. Originally scheduled to take place in mid-August, the fair will now be held from 19 – 21 July 2023. “It’s important for us to hold Secutech Vietnam in a place that will benefit participants the most, and the temporary move will definitely maximise the business opportunities for both exhibitors and buyers particularly after the pandemic disruption,” explains Ms Regina Tsai, General Manager, Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd – Taiwan Branch. “We are honoured that Secutech Vietnam is considered the perfect platform for the Ministry of Public Security to celebrate its most important event of the year. Their full support of the show will not only draw high-level government officials, but also attract a large number of overseas and local fire safety and security industry players.” Ms Tsai adds: “With plenty of ambitious construction projects in progress, Hanoi and its surrounding regions represent one of Vietnam’s biggest markets not just for fire safety equipment, but also for smart building and security solutions. The move will put exhibitors in closer proximity to this growing market.” Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the World Bank expects Vietnam’s final GDP growth figures for 2022 to reach an impressive 7.5%[1]. The government has emphasised foreign direct investment as a means to support different levels of the economy, including smart city development and advanced manufacturing. As a municipality administered by […]

20 MW Taungdaw Gwin build-own-operate solar plant opens in Myanmar

Myanmar’s latest solar energy plant, the 20 megawatt (MW) build-own-operate (BOO) Taungdaw Gwin project adds a new chapter to the country’s sustainability and electrification efforts. The 20-megawatt Taungdaw Gwin mega-scale solar PV project will contribute to Myanmar’s sustainability and electrification efforts. [Image: GPE] The project was developed by Green Power Energy Company Limited (GPE), a subsidiary of Gold Energy Company Limited (GE), a leading renewable energy developer in Myanmar. Taungdaw Gwin is the second mega-scale solar project to be completed by the GE group. Clean Power Energy Limited, another GE subsidiary, completed the 30 MW Thapyay Wa project in Mandalay district in December 2021. With the official opening of the Taungdaw Gwin project, GE’s solar energy capacity stands at 50 MW. GE also operates the 120 MW Thaukyegat (2) Hydropower Project (TYG), commissioned in 2013. Located on an 80.9-hectare site southeast of Kyaukse, Myit Thar Township, the Taungdaw Gwin project utilizes a solar tracking system so as to maximize photovoltaic (PV) energy captured by 45,980 solar panels. The project is expected to generate 25.1 MW of direct current or 22.9 MW of alternating current per year. The Taungdaw Gwin project began transmission to the National Grid on 17 November 2022. The energy output is directly linked to the Taungdaw Gwin substation and is connected to the national grid via a 69.6 km 33-kV transmission line built by GPE. In line with its commitment to give back to the community, the GPE team conducted an in-depth Environmental and Social Impact Assessment before construction. This enabled an understanding of the impact on nearby communities and the environment and helped to facilitate construction in a responsible and sustainable manner. Through engaging with local community leaders to understand the needs of the residents surrounding Taungdaw Gwin, the GPE team constructed and installed two […]

Applied Materials launches ‘Singapore 2030’

Applied Materials, Inc. has announced “Singapore 2030” – a multi-faceted plan to expand its operations in Singapore over the next eight years. The plan is targeted at strengthening the company’s global manufacturing and R&D capabilities, broadening technology ecosystem partnerships in Singapore and promoting local workforce development. “For the past 30 years, Singapore has been a strategic hub for Applied Materials, and we are excited to build on our success with new investments that will strengthen our ability to support the semiconductor industry on its path to becoming a US$1 trillion market by the end of the decade,” said Gary Dickerson, President and CEO of Applied Materials. “We look forward to working with the Government of Singapore and the vibrant technology ecosystem to create opportunities for mutual growth that will benefit the global semiconductor industry.” With the semiconductor industry entering a new wave of growth fueled by digital transformation of the economy, Applied has announced its intention to make multi-billion-dollar investments in its innovation infrastructure in the United States and to expand its global manufacturing capacity. As part of Singapore 2030, Applied Materials held a groundbreaking ceremony for an expansion of its regional hub in Singapore, which is home to Applied’s largest factory outside of the United States. This investment of hundreds of millions of U.S. dollars will strengthen the company’s ability to meet growing customer demand in the years ahead. In addition, the company will invest to bolster its R&D capabilities in Singapore with a focus on accelerating commercialization of new technologies and services that improve chip power, performance, area, cost and time-to-market (PPACt™). One example is the research collaboration between Applied and the Institute of Microelectronics (IME), a research institute of Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), focused on hybrid bonding and other emerging, 3D chip integration […]

Hoist & Winch elevates success of large construction project

Hoist & Winch Ltd has recently completed a challenging project for one of the UK’s biggest construction companies involved in large-scale new home development projects. Faced with a demanding and highly technical brief, Hoist & Winch rose to the task, providing a turnkey lifting system solution to ensure complete success for its client. The requirement was to install a concrete ceiling mounted 7.5t swl (safe working load) lifting beam and manual chain hoist into the basement energy room of a large new tower block. This development is part of a large-scale prestigious regeneration project providing 5500 sustainable new homes in North London. At the design stage, following formal tender and contract award, Hoist & Winch set about identifying the optimal solution. Due to restricted access into the basement area, the company decided to utilise a two-piece lifting beam design with an overall length of 7m. To join the two lifting beam sections, Hoist & Winch designed a central splice joint of bolted construction with a reinforced bottom beam flange. In order to spread the lifting loads over a greater area of the concrete ceiling slab it was decided to mount the lifting beam via four intermediate cross members, each having a four-bolt/anchor fix into the concrete ceiling at both ends. Featuring a robust bolted construction design it was possible to deliver the lifting beam to site in fully dismantled form for ease of transportation and access. M24 resin anchors with an embedment of 255 mm into the 400 mm deep reinforced concrete slab fixed the intermediate cross members directly to the ceiling for maximum security. For approval by engineers at the main contractor, Hoist & Winch submitted design drawings and calculations for the structural design of the lifting beam and loading of the resin-type ceiling anchors. With the design approved, […]

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