China has launched a national innovation center for high-end equipment nondestructive testing (NDT) in Beijing, marking a significant step towards advancing intelligent inspection technologies for the country’s burgeoning smart manufacturing sector.
The center, established under the State Administration for Market Regulation, is primarily supported by the defense technology research and test center of China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation Limited (CASIC). It aims to focus on cutting-edge, disruptive, and common technology research in high-end equipment NDT, fostering a collaborative platform that brings together industry leaders, academic institutions, and research organizations.
“With the rapid advancement of modern high-end equipment—such as aerospace products, nuclear power facilities, and large-scale bridge structures—the application of new materials and intelligent manufacturing has introduced a series of monitoring and evaluation challenges,” said Li Hongmin, chairman of the innovation center and director of the CASIC defense technology research and test center.
Li emphasized that the innovation center will address these challenges by developing advanced NDT technologies while enhancing their intelligence, informatization, and standardization. “We aim to fill the gaps in these critical fields and elevate industry standards,” he added.
The center unites 46 leading institutions, including Xi’an Jiaotong University, Harbin Institute of Technology, and China Special Equipment Inspection and Research Institute. This alliance is expected to drive technological breakthroughs, promote industry collaboration, and support China’s vision for a smarter manufacturing future.
