Ever wondered how the world of automation thrives? This article explores top pneumatic companies driving innovation. From Japan to Germany, discover how these industry leaders shape our future. Expect insights into their history, products, and global impact. Ready to dive in?
Country: Japan
Founded：1959
SMC is a renowned global manufacturer specializing in pneumatic components. Founded in 1959 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, SMC initially focused on producing “sintered metal industrial filter” elements through powder metallurgy. Over the years, the company has expanded its product offerings and earned a reputation for exceptional quality and innovation.
SMC began its journey by manufacturing sintered metal filters, which laid the foundation for its expertise in pneumatic components. The company’s dedication to quality and continuous innovation has enabled it to become a leading player in the pneumatic industry.
The name “SMC” stands for Sintered Metal Company, a brand that has gained global recognition over the years. In 1994, SMC established SMC (China) Co., Ltd. in Beijing, marking its entry into the Chinese market. Over the past two decades, SMC has developed a comprehensive marketing network across China and built a strong reputation for its products and services.
In 2021, SMC China underwent a significant reorganization, resulting in the establishment of SMC Automation Co., Ltd. This strategic move was aimed at enhancing domestic customer service and fostering sustainable development. SMC Automation Co., Ltd. is now responsible for marketing activities in mainland China, with branches in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou to manage regional marketing agencies.
SMC Automation Co., Ltd. is committed to providing professional and timely services and technical support to customers throughout China. The company boasts over 120 directly affiliated business outlets and more than 300 authorized agents nationwide. In recent years, SMC has also formed partnerships with several e-commerce platforms to broaden its market reach.
SMC’s journey from a small manufacturer of sintered metal filters to a global leader in pneumatic components is a testament to its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With a strong presence in China and a focus on sustainable development, SMC continues to set industry standards and deliver exceptional value to its customers worldwide.
Country: China
Founded: 1988
Products: Cylinder, solenoid valve, pressure switch
AirTAC International Group, a globally recognized professional supplier and manufacturer of pneumatic equipment, was established in Taiwan in 1988 and is headquartered in Taipei. The company excels in the production of pneumatic execution, control, and processing components, along with various auxiliary components.
AirTAC’s products are integral to a wide array of automation industries, including:
The Research and Development (R&D) Center of AirTAC International Group is situated in Ningbo, China, encompassing a total building area of 10,527 square meters.
AirTAC International Group has a well-established global sales network:
AirTAC International Group operates three major production bases:
AirTAC International Group maintains two logistics centers:
AirTAC International Group’s extensive network of R&D, sales, production, and logistics centers underscores its commitment to innovation and customer service in the pneumatic equipment industry. The company’s strategic locations and comprehensive facilities ensure efficient operations and high-quality product delivery across the globe.
Country: Germany
Founded：1925
Founded in 1925, Festo is a leading manufacturer in the field of automation technology and a global market leader in industrial technology training. The company is headquartered in Esslingen, Germany, and operates in over 200 industries worldwide. Festo provides cutting-edge pneumatic and electric drive technologies and comprehensive solutions for factory automation and process automation to over 300,000 customers.
Festo’s extensive global reach is evident through its operations in numerous industries, offering innovative solutions that enhance productivity and efficiency. The company’s technologies are integral to various sectors, including automotive, electronics and light assembly, food and beverage packaging, water and sewage treatment, and biotechnology/pharmacy.
Festo’s business in China began in 1985, and the company officially entered the Chinese market in 1993 by establishing Festo (China) Co., Ltd. in Jinqiao, Pudong, Shanghai. Over the past three decades, Festo has continuously expanded its investment in China, focusing on production, research and development, and sales. The company provides the Chinese market with advanced pneumatic and electric drive technologies and comprehensive solutions for factory automation and process automation.
Festo serves a variety of industries in China, including:
Festo is also a pioneer in industrial training. The Festo Teaching and Training Department offers comprehensive solutions for industrial training to over 600 enterprises and institutions, universities, vocational colleges, and training bases in Greater China. This includes:
As the official partner of the World Skills Competition, Festo provides professional technical training and support for the competition, underscoring its commitment to fostering skilled professionals in the industry.
Currently, Festo employs over 2,000 people in Greater China, contributing significantly to the local economy and the development of advanced manufacturing technologies in the region.
Festo’s long-standing presence and continuous investment in China highlight its dedication to innovation and excellence in automation technology. The company’s comprehensive solutions and educational initiatives demonstrate its commitment to advancing industrial capabilities and nurturing future talent in the field.
Founded: 1986
Headquarters: Xinbei City, Taiwan
Production Facilities: Taiwan Xinbei Factory, Shanghai Songjiang Factory
Taiwan Chelic Co., Ltd. offers a comprehensive range of products tailored for various automation applications. Their product lineup includes:
The products manufactured by Taiwan Chelic are integral to a wide array of automation applications, including:
With the brand “CHELIC,” Taiwan Chelic Co., Ltd. has established a strong reputation in the automation industry. The company boasts a global distribution network and serves as a supplier of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and original design manufacturer (ODM) products to renowned automation manufacturers both domestically and internationally.
Taiwan Chelic Co., Ltd. is a prominent player in the automation industry, known for its diverse product offerings and robust global presence. Their commitment to quality and innovation has made them a trusted partner for automation solutions worldwide.
Country: Japan
Founded: 1943
CKD Co., Ltd. is a diversified manufacturer specializing in automation machinery and pneumatic control systems. The company’s extensive product lineup includes:
CKD Co., Ltd. has established a significant global footprint, with a notable presence in China through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Xikai Li (China) Co., Ltd. This subsidiary plays a crucial role in CKD’s global operations, particularly in the production and distribution of automated machinery and pneumatic control components.
Key Milestones:
Located in the Wuxi New Area, CKD China has evolved into a leading Japanese enterprise in the region. The subsidiary has been instrumental in producing high-quality, efficient products that meet both local and international standards. As a large-scale production base, CKD China supports the group’s global operations by manufacturing automated machinery, labor-saving equipment, and pneumatic control components.
2013 Expansion: In 2013, CKD China inaugurated a new factory designed with principles of warmth, environmental protection, and people-orientation. This facility serves as CKD’s second development base, ensuring that products manufactured in China maintain the same high standards as those produced in Japan. The factory integrates production, sales, components, and automation equipment, catering to the specific needs of the Chinese market.
CKD Co., Ltd. stands out as a pioneer in the field of automation machinery and pneumatic control systems. With a rich history dating back to 1943 and a robust global presence, the company continues to innovate and expand its product offerings. CKD’s commitment to quality and efficiency is evident in its comprehensive range of products and its strategic operations in China, which bolster its position as a leading player in the industry.
Country: Japan
Founded: 1934
Products: KOGANEI high-performance pneumatic component cylinder, swing cylinder, pneumatic claw, solenoid valve, manual valve, check valve, vacuum valve generator, suction cup, various cylinders, magnetic dryer, pressure regulating valve, pressure valve, KOGANEI static remover, static tester
KOGANEI, established in 1934, is a renowned manufacturer specializing in the production and sales of high-performance pneumatic components and related products. The company’s product line includes a wide range of pneumatic solutions such as cylinders, solenoid valves, and pressure regulating valves, among others. Additionally, KOGANEI is involved in the production of oxygen resin components and centralized oil feeding lubrication devices.
Customer satisfaction is at the core of KOGANEI’s operations. The company is dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and high-quality products and services. To ensure continuous improvement and effective quality management, KOGANEI has obtained ISO 9001:2000 certification, reflecting its commitment to maintaining high standards.
KOGANEI has established a significant global presence with branches and business offices in 26 countries and regions worldwide. This extensive network allows the company to effectively serve a diverse customer base and meet the varying needs of different markets.
Shanghai KOGANEI International Trade Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Japan KOGANEI Co., Ltd., was registered in the Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone in 2004. This subsidiary focuses on the sales of Japanese KOGANEI imported products as well as locally sourced products from Shanghai Jiading in China.
Over the past decade, KOGANEI has experienced substantial growth in China, establishing six branches in key cities including Shanghai, Beijing, Wuxi, Suzhou, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. Additionally, the company has expanded its presence with nine more locations, further solidifying its footprint in the Chinese market.
KOGANEI’s long-standing history, commitment to quality, and extensive global network make it a leading player in the pneumatic components industry. The company’s strategic expansion and focus on customer satisfaction continue to drive its success and reputation worldwide.
Norgren is a leading manufacturer specializing in motion and fluid control technology. The company provides exceptional solutions to various industries, aiming to enhance the speed and engineering stability of their equipment, thus boosting productivity and efficiency.
At Norgren, the primary objective is to understand and address the challenges faced by customers. By leveraging a combination of high-quality products, a talented workforce, and extensive expertise, Norgren delivers outstanding services and solutions that enhance the performance of customer products.
Norgren’s competitive edge is derived from its diverse range of high-quality products, close customer collaboration, and strong problem-solving capabilities. The company ensures local delivery through a global technical support network, providing necessary support to customers regardless of their location.
Norgren’s global team includes key account managers and over 400 experienced engineers, many of whom are experts in their fields. The company prioritizes talent development, offering training and exposure to top-tier products and technologies. This approach equips Norgren with the skills, confidence, and expertise required to meet customer needs and deliver optimal solutions.
Norgren boasts state-of-the-art global manufacturing capabilities and a technology center dedicated to developing and rigorously testing new, high-quality products that meet the demands of precision industries and applications. The company assists customers worldwide in improving production linearity, reducing downtime, and decreasing energy consumption.
Norgren’s product lines include:
These products have been extensively tested and proven in practical applications, earning a reputation as trusted brands in the fluid and motion control industry. Norgren continues to innovate and develop new products, ensuring the growth and reliability of these product lines.
Norgren provides stable, safe, and efficient solutions to help customers tackle complex engineering challenges. The company invests in robust project management systems and localized lean production, delivering exceptional manufacturing, sales, and services to 50 countries worldwide.
With an integrated supply chain and rapid sales services, Norgren has the systems, processes, and support necessary to deliver high-quality products and after-sales services promptly and efficiently, anywhere in the world.
As a member of the IMI PLC International Engineering Group, Norgren has an extensive sales and service network in 50 countries, with production bases in the United States, Germany, China, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Mexico, and Brazil.
Norgren supports its customers through a network of global technology centers and advanced CFD design and R&D testing facilities. The company employs a team of professional field engineers, industry experts, and key account managers dedicated to providing quality services to customers.
In summary, Norgren is a global leader in motion and fluid control technology, committed to delivering high-quality products and exceptional services to enhance the productivity and efficiency of its customers’ equipment.
Founded in 1918, Parker Hannifin is a diversified global manufacturer specializing in motion and control technologies and systems. The company offers innovative design solutions tailored to the needs of various sectors, including automotive, industrial, and aviation markets. Parker Hannifin is committed to addressing complex engineering challenges by leveraging its extensive engineering expertise and a broad range of core technologies. The company emphasizes forming strong partnerships with its customers to help them enhance productivity and profitability significantly.
As a leading motion control manufacturer, Parker Hannifin provides a comprehensive portfolio of products and services. The company operates over 1,400 production lines, producing components and systems used in more than 1,000 industrial and aviation applications. Parker Hannifin’s product offerings include hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromechanical motion control solutions. The company boasts a robust sales network, with over 7,500 distributors serving 400,000 customers worldwide.
Parker Hannifin has been active in China for over 30 years, establishing its first office in the country in 1990. The company operates several manufacturing facilities in China, including:
Parker Hannifin China was one of the first three foreign joint ventures established in China following the country’s opening to foreign direct investment in the 1980s. The company offers over 2,000 product lines across more than 50 markets, providing nine technical solutions and services:
Parker Hannifin’s products and solutions are utilized in a wide range of industries, including:
The company’s headquarters in China is located in Shanghai, serving as a central hub for its extensive operations and customer support in the region.
Parker Hannifin’s century-long history and global presence underscore its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. By continuously expanding its technological capabilities and forming strategic partnerships, Parker Hannifin remains at the forefront of the motion and control technology industry, driving advancements and efficiency across various sectors.
Bosch Rexroth, founded in 1978 in Germany, is a globally recognized leader in transmission and control technology. The company is committed to delivering efficient, powerful, and safe intelligent motion solutions for a wide range of machinery and system equipment. With a wealth of project experience in walking machinery applications, machinery engineering, and factory automation, Bosch Rexroth leverages its intelligent components, customized solutions, and services to foster the implementation of Industry 4.0.
Bosch Rexroth offers a comprehensive portfolio of interfaces and technologies to meet the diverse needs of its customers. These include:
Since its entry into the Chinese market in 1978, Bosch Rexroth has established significant production facilities in Beijing, Wujin, and Xi’an. These facilities enable the company to cater to the growing demand for advanced transmission and control technologies in China and beyond.
Bosch Rexroth is at the forefront of Industry 4.0, utilizing its extensive expertise and innovative solutions to create an optimal environment for smart manufacturing. The company’s intelligent components and customized solutions are designed to enhance efficiency, productivity, and safety in modern industrial applications.
Bosch Rexroth’s dedication to innovation and excellence in transmission and control technology makes it a trusted partner for businesses seeking to advance their machinery and system capabilities. With a strong global presence and a commitment to Industry 4.0, Bosch Rexroth continues to lead the way in intelligent motion solutions.
Founded: 1999
Country: China
Ningbo JEIPC is a prominent manufacturer of pneumatic components in China. The company has distinguished itself by being the first in the industry to receive ISO9001 quality system and CE certifications. It holds a significant position as a director unit of the Pneumatic Branch of the China Hydraulic and Pneumatic Seal Industry Association and serves as the president unit of the 4th Fenghua Pneumatic Industry Association.
Established in 1999, Ningbo JEIPC operates a modern garden factory that spans 50,000 square meters. This facility integrates various functions, including research and development, production, procurement, materials management, marketing, and office work. The factory employs over 360 individuals, with one-fourth of the workforce comprising professional and technical management personnel.
Ningbo JEIPC has established two significant research centers: the “Ningbo Jiaerling Pneumatic Mechanical Engineering Technology Center” and the “Zhejiang Provincial High-tech Enterprise Research and Development Center.” These centers are outfitted with advanced testing equipment, such as three coordinate measuring instruments, three-dimensional projectors, high-precision flow testing platforms, and comprehensive pneumatic component testing platforms. This infrastructure supports the company’s independent research and development and design capabilities.
The company utilizes state-of-the-art CNC machine tools sourced both domestically and internationally, including full CNC machining centers and high-speed automatic lathes. Additionally, Ningbo JEIPC employs automatic assembly lines for pilot heads and solenoid valves. Key seals, magnetic materials, and lubricating grease are imported from Japan or Germany in their original packaging.
With a robust EP management system and advanced equipment, Ningbo JEIPC can produce 700,000 sets of pneumatic components and complete sets of equipment annually, ensuring high-quality products.
Ningbo JEIPC has been instrumental in the preparation and revision of 22 national and industrial standards, such as the “basic dimensions, installation dimensions, and accessory dimensions of cylinders with detachable pneumatic belts in diameters ranging from 32mm to 320mm.” The company holds 48 patents, including invention patents, utility model patents, and appearance patents related to pneumatic technology.
The company has supplied solenoid valves for significant projects, including the main stadium of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the “Water Cube Natatorium” water supply and drainage system, and the environmental protection recycling system for the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.
Ningbo JEIPC maintains a strategic partnership with Airtec, a renowned German manufacturer of pneumatic components. This collaboration encompasses joint product research and development, sales, processing technology, and employee training. The company aspires to be a “leading pneumatic force in China.”
Ningbo JEIPC’s products are well-regarded in China and are exported to over 50 countries and regions, including Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. As one of the earliest and largest exporters of pneumatic components, the company has earned a solid reputation and high standing in the pneumatic industry.
Ningbo JEIPC’s commitment to quality, innovation, and strategic partnerships has positioned it as a leader in the pneumatic components industry. With its advanced facilities, robust R&D capabilities, and extensive market reach, the company continues to set benchmarks in the field of pneumatic technology.
As the founder of MachineMFG, I have dedicated over a decade of my career to the metalworking industry. My extensive experience has allowed me to become an expert in the fields of sheet metal fabrication, machining, mechanical engineering, and machine tools for metals. I am constantly thinking, reading, and writing about these subjects, constantly striving to stay at the forefront of my field. Let my knowledge and expertise be an asset to your business.
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