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The key to localization of refining equipment is the combination of production, education and research
Modern process equipment and control engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines chemical engineering, materials science, and mechanical systems. Its development is closely tied to the level of localization in China's refining and petrochemical industries. Despite significant progress, there remains a noticeable gap between China’s refining equipment manufacturing capabilities and international standards. To bridge this gap, strengthening collaboration among universities, enterprises, and research institutions to build integrated production, engineering, and research bases has become a key strategy for improving the industry’s overall technical level.
This insight was shared at the first Forum on Process Equipment and Control Engineering, where experts highlighted both achievements and challenges. Cao Xianghong, Chief Engineer at Sinopec, noted that with the rapid growth of China’s refining and chemical sectors, the equipment manufacturing industry has gained substantial opportunities. Major equipment such as reactors, separators, heat exchangers, and storage systems have achieved local production. However, certain critical components, like ethylene refrigeration compressor units, are still imported, revealing gaps in technology and quality assurance compared to foreign counterparts.
Gao Jinji, an academician from the Chinese Academy of Engineering, pointed out that weak independent innovation and the lack of comprehensive design firms have led to heavy reliance on foreign equipment. Over 20 years, China imported numerous facilities, including ammonia synthesis units, urea plants, and phosphate fertilizer systems, costing billions of dollars. This underscores the urgent need for enhanced R&D capabilities and talent development.
Experts emphasize that universities, enterprises, and research institutes must work together to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals, including engineers, technicians, and leaders in equipment development. Establishing strong collaboration frameworks and focusing on practical applications of technological innovations—such as patents and new product development—is essential. Encouraging young talents to engage directly in real-world projects can further accelerate progress.
The shift toward service-oriented manufacturing is also gaining momentum. For example, GE and Harbin Power Equipment Co. established a joint venture worth $16 million, offering maintenance and on-site services for gas turbines. Similarly, Shell and Shanghai Automotive formed a joint service company. These initiatives help enhance enterprise value creation and service capabilities, ultimately boosting the competitiveness of China’s equipment industry.
Researchers from the Hefei General Machinery Research Institute noted that China’s manufacturing sector still faces issues like high energy consumption, pollution, and low-end product dominance. The core equipment industry contributes only 26.46% to the manufacturing value, significantly lower than developed countries. Building an innovation system centered on enterprises, integrating production, education, and research, and attracting top talent are vital steps to address these challenges.
However, current cooperation between industry, universities, and research institutes faces obstacles. Some companies are content with existing technologies, while some academic institutions focus too much on short-term gains rather than long-term collaboration. Experts suggest that universities should prioritize fundamental and forward-looking research, while enterprises focus on practical and integrated innovation. Research institutes should act as bridges, and national policies must encourage stronger collaboration. Enterprises, as key players in innovation, should be empowered with clear responsibilities and incentives to drive the localization of refining equipment.