Exploring the future of manufacturing with Kevin Zhao, Vice General Manager of HGLASER

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio

Kevin Zhao, the Vice General Manager of HGLASER

In the ever-evolving landscape of the manufacturing industry, Wuhan HG Laser Engineering Co., Ltd. (HGLASER) has emerged as a trailblazer, leading the charge in laser industrial applications in China. With over 50 years of rich history, HGLASER, a core subsidiary of the esteemed HGTECH, has played a pivotal role in shaping the standards for laser equipment in the country.

As we delve into an insightful interview with Kevin Zhao, the Vice General Manager of HGLASER, conducted by International Metalworking News for Asia (IMNA), we gain profound insights into the company's journey, achievements, and its commitment to innovation. HGLASER's deep understanding of manufacturing industry trends is reflected in its relentless pursuit of product enrichment and the provision of cutting-edge solutions.

The company stands at the forefront of integrating automation, informatisation, intelligence, and manufacturing, offering a diverse range of solutions to various industries. From laser cutting systems and welding systems to laser marking series, complete equipment for laser texturing, laser heat treatment systems, laser drilling machines, and more, HGLASER caters to a broad spectrum of applications. Furthermore, the company excels in providing overall construction schemes for automatic production lines and smart factories.

In the interview, Kevin Zhao sheds light on the company's pivotal role in the automobile industry, its global outreach, and the distinguishing features of HGLASER products, including fast processing speed, stable performance, and comprehensive solutions. The emphasis on automation and intelligence in their products aligns seamlessly with the evolving trends in the manufacturing landscape.

With a manufacturing hub in Wuhan, China, the birthplace of laser technology in the nation, HGLASER ensures the highest standards through a strategic division of production teams based on industry applications. This approach has garnered trust from renowned customers, both domestically and internationally, over the years.

Looking ahead, HGLASER envisions a promising future in the South East Asia market, particularly in Indonesia, where the demand for laser applications in manufacturing is on the rise. The company is set to introduce its innovative laser applications to the Indonesian market in November, contributing to the advancement of the country's manufacturing sector.

Join us in this exclusive interview as we navigate through the success story of HGLASER and explore the trends and innovations that shape the future of laser industrial applications.

IMNA: Can you provide a brief history of Wuhan HG Laser Engineering Co., Ltd., and its role in the laser industrial application in China?

Kevin Zhao: Wuhan HG Laser Engineering Co., Ltd., commonly known as HGLASER, stands as the pioneer and leader in laser industrial applications in China. We are a core subsidiary of HGTECH, a well-known national high-tech listed company. HGTECH, originating from China's HUST University in 1971, went public on the Shenzhen stock exchange in 1999. Over the past 50 years, HGTECH has focused on laser applications across various industries, achieving significant breakthroughs, particularly in the automobile sector. Notably, our contributions in car body laser welding, 3D 5-axis laser cutting, airbag laser weakening, tire mold laser cleaning, battery pack laser welding, among others, have earned us recognition from the Chinese government, allowing us to set standards for laser equipment in China.

IMNA: Could you provide an overview of the standout features of the products you are exhibiting at this conference, and what sets them apart from offerings by other companies?

Kevin Zhao: The advantages of HG Laser products are evident: fast processing speed, stable performance, comprehensive product solutions, and cost-effectiveness. In the automobile industry, where we hold the No.1 market share in China, our applications cover a range of processes, from car body laser welding to tire mould laser cleaning. For the overseas market, including Vietnam, Thailand, India, South Korea, and now, with our sights set on Indonesia, we have successfully integrated HGTECH machines into production lines for several years. Our commitment to timely global customer service has established trust, making HGTECH the preferred choice for laser applications worldwide.

IMNA: In which industries do you primarily serve, and could you elaborate on the comprehensive laser solutions provided?

Kevin Zhao: Laser technology finds applications in various industries, and at HGTECH, we supply comprehensive laser solutions to sectors like metal sheet, computer, communication, consumer electronics, daily consumption, new energy, automobile, and smart factories. Our R&D teams are organised based on different industries, ensuring specialised focus and expertise. For instance, we have dedicated teams focusing solely on developing laser applications in the automobile industry.

IMNA: Where are your products manufactured, and how do you ensure the highest standards in your operations?

Kevin Zhao: Our products are proudly manufactured in Wuhan, China, the birthplace of laser technology in the country. Wuhan also serves as the headquarters of HGTECH, overseeing the main manufacturing of HG products. To meet the highest standards, HGTECH divides its production teams according to specific industry applications. This focus has led to a history of trust and preference from renowned customers both in China and internationally.

IMNA: What recent and upcoming trends do you see in the products and services you offer?

Kevin Zhao: Automation and intelligence are key trends in our industry. Customers are increasingly adopting equipment with automation features to reduce manpower and incorporating intelligent factory solutions to enhance manufacturing management.

IMNA: What is your projection for the South East Asia market, particularly in Indonesia?

Kevin Zhao: Indonesia stands out as the largest market in South East Asia, characterised by a sizable population, abundant resources, and rapid economic growth. The demand for automobiles and various other products is substantial, making it a promising market for our laser applications. We are excited about introducing HGTECH laser applications to the Indonesian market in November, contributing to the country's manufacturing landscape.