**Abstract**
Introduction: The CNC gear-cutting machine tool introduced by Changsha Machine Tool Co., Ltd. has made a significant impact, breaking the long-standing monopoly of German companies in this field. Despite its high performance and advanced technology, these domestically produced machine tools have yet to achieve commercial success. At the 13th China International Machine Tool Exhibition held in April this year, the CNC gear-cutting machine tool from Changsha Machine Tool drew considerable attention, showcasing its ability to surpass traditional gear processing methods like rolling, shaving, and grinding. It offers solutions that were previously unattainable and holds great potential for application in industries such as automotive, aviation, aerospace, and wind energy. As a representative of high-end CNC equipment from Changsha, it represents a major step forward in domestic manufacturing. However, despite its impressive performance, it remains an "award-winning" product without actual sales.
**Guide**:
The CNC gear-cutting machine tool launched by Changsha Machine Tool Co., Ltd. has broken the monopoly of German enterprises in this area. Yet, despite its excellence, no deals have been finalized. At the 13th China International Machine Tool Exhibition in April, the machine tool made a strong impression, solving key issues in traditional gear processing and offering new possibilities. While many companies have expressed interest, no orders have been completed.
**Status Quo**:
China's machine tool industry is facing challenges in building core competitiveness. Most domestic products are low-end, below three-axis systems, while high-end 5-axis or above machines are dominated by foreign manufacturers. Domestic mid-range CNC systems hold only 5% of the market, and high-end systems are nearly 95% imported. Functional components also face similar challenges, with less than 30% of the market captured by local suppliers. This highlights the urgent need for transformation and upgrading in the industry.
**Core Competitiveness Is Not Strong, Low-End Capacity Is Oversupplied**
In the machine tool sector, 3-axis and 5-axis systems are considered medium-to-high-end, while 5-axis or more are classified as high-end. Currently, most Chinese machine tools are low-end, below 3 axes. Unlike the high-end market, which is controlled by Europe, the US, Japan, and South Korea, domestic low-end machine tools have largely displaced foreign competitors. However, the gap remains due to short-term profit focus among enterprises and user preferences for cheaper, simpler options.
**Awkward Situation: Cold Reception for High-End Domestic CNC Machines**
With slowing demand growth in the machinery industry, many companies are realizing that the era of rapid industrial expansion is fading. Demand for higher-quality, more precise equipment is increasing, making the high-end CNC market a battleground. Despite the technological maturity of Changsha’s machine tool, no sales have been closed. Customers often cite high prices as the main barrier, though the cost is driven by imported key components.
Even basic parts require high precision for use on advanced CNC machines. Components like bearings, oscillating heads, and gratings are still in early stages in China, leading to reliance on foreign imports. This creates obstacles for domestic manufacturers aiming to upgrade their technology.
**Small and Medium Enterprises Can’t Afford It, Large Companies Don’t Dare To Use It**
Many small and medium-sized businesses find the price too high, while larger companies hesitate to switch from foreign machines. Some joint ventures already use foreign equipment from the start, making it difficult to change later. As one executive put it, “We can only offer trial services to interested buyers to help them see the value of domestic high-end CNC tools.â€
**Exploration: Striving to Break Into the 'Upper Tier'**
To address these challenges, companies must strengthen their core technologies and offer different configurations tailored to various customer needs. Changsha Machine Tool, for example, has a strong presence in the automotive sector, supplying broaching machines to major automakers like Chery, BYD, and Geely. Meanwhile, high-end machines like Haijie Precision’s CNC8312A camshaft grinder are being used in military applications.
Collaboration between industry, academia, and research institutions is also seen as a way to improve competitiveness. Although talent development is time-consuming and challenging, partnerships remain essential for long-term growth.
According to industry reports, China’s CNC machine tool production has grown at an average annual rate of 37.39% over the past five years. Experts predict that the market will continue to grow at over 10% annually, with demand for CNC systems reaching 400,000 units by 2015 and annual sales hitting 850 billion yuan. This signals a bright future for the industry, provided domestic manufacturers can overcome current hurdles.
Flat Washers,Stainless Steel Shim Rings,Ring Shim Washers,Stainless Steel Shim Washers
Kunshan Liyue Hardware Products Co.,Ltd , https://www.fixlyhardware.com