Core Insights - The successful trial of China's first 36,000-ton vertical extrusion machine marks a significant technological breakthrough, ending a 30-year Western monopoly on large-diameter thick-walled seamless steel pipes [1][6] Group 1: Technological Breakthrough - The vertical extrusion machine was developed to produce large-diameter thick-walled seamless steel pipes, essential for critical industries such as thermal power, military, and aerospace [3][4] - The project faced significant challenges, including a lack of technical blueprints and experience, leading the team to rely on Soviet-era literature and foreign product catalogs for reverse engineering [4] Group 2: Cost Reduction and Market Impact - The price of P92 steel pipes used in power plants dropped from 160,000 yuan per ton to below 50,000 yuan, significantly reducing costs for domestic ultra-supercritical power generation units [6] - The successful production not only met domestic demand but also allowed for exports to countries along the Belt and Road Initiative, enhancing China's position in the global market [6] Group 3: Military and Strategic Importance - The team behind the extrusion machine has a military background, previously developing high-strength artillery steel, which has contributed to advancements in strategic equipment like the CJ1000 aircraft engine and nuclear pressure vessels [8] - The machine has been operational for 15 years, working over 8,200 hours annually, and has equipped 85% of newly added ultra-supercritical thermal power units in China [8]