Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the journey and achievements of Xu Chengdong, a skilled worker at Yunnan Chihong Zinc & Germanium Co., Ltd., who has significantly contributed to the advancement of lead smelting technology in China through innovation and dedication [1][5]. Group 1: Background and Early Career - Xu Chengdong, originally from Huize County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, was inspired by the local lead-zinc mining industry and began his career at Huize Lead-Zinc Mine after graduating from middle school in 1991 [2][3]. - Initially assigned to the machine repair workshop, Xu sought to learn smelting techniques and moved to the sintering workshop, where he excelled and became the workshop leader, achieving the highest production record for three consecutive years [2][3]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - In 2004, the company invested heavily in introducing the IsaSmelt furnace from Australia to enhance smelting processes, and Xu was selected for training to operate this advanced technology [3][4]. - Xu overcame language barriers and mastered the IsaSmelt technology within three months, becoming the first in China to apply this technology for lead smelting [3][4]. - He proposed a solution to a critical issue of molten pool freezing during production, which was recognized by foreign experts, showcasing his innovative problem-solving skills [4][5]. Group 3: Continuous Improvement and Achievements - Xu led multiple technological improvements in the IsaSmelt process, significantly increasing production efficiency and reducing costs, including extending the lifespan of spray guns from 48 hours to 240 hours and enhancing the smelting capacity by increasing oxygen concentration by 31% [5][6]. - Under his leadership, the company achieved a historical record of 85,000 tons of crude lead production in 2014 and set a record for the lifespan of furnace bricks at 978 days from 2013 to 2015 [5][6]. Group 4: Mentorship and Legacy - Xu has been recognized with numerous awards, including National Labor Model and National May Day Labor Medal, and he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of smelting professionals [7][8]. - He established the "Xu Chengdong Labor Model Innovation Studio" to promote technical skills and innovation in lead smelting, focusing on addressing production challenges and enhancing operational efficiency [7][8]. - His mentorship has led to the development of skilled technicians across various subsidiaries of Chihong Zinc & Germanium, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the industry [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the journey and achievements of Xu Chengdong, a skilled worker at Yunnan Chihong Zinc & Germanium Co., Ltd., who has significantly contributed to the advancement of lead smelting technology in China through innovation and dedication [1][5]. Group 1: Background and Early Career - Xu Chengdong, originally from Huize County, Qujing City, Yunnan Province, was inspired by the local lead-zinc mining industry and began his career at Huize Lead-Zinc Mine after graduating from middle school in 1991 [2][3]. - Initially assigned to the machine repair workshop, Xu Chengdong sought to learn smelting techniques and moved to the sintering workshop, where he excelled and became the workshop leader, achieving the highest production record for three consecutive years [2][3]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - In 2004, the company invested heavily in introducing the IsaSmelt furnace from Australia to enhance smelting processes, and Xu was selected for training to operate this advanced technology [3][4]. - Xu overcame language barriers and mastered the IsaSmelt furnace operation within three months, becoming the first in China to apply this technology for lead smelting [3][4]. - He proposed a solution to a critical issue of molten pool freezing during production, which was recognized by foreign experts, showcasing his innovative problem-solving skills [4][5]. Group 3: Continuous Improvement and Achievements - Xu led multiple technological improvements in the IsaSmelt production process, achieving record production metrics, including an annual output of 85,000 tons of crude lead in 2014 [5][6]. - His innovations included enhancing the design of the spray gun, significantly extending its lifespan and reducing production costs, as well as increasing the oxygen concentration in the IsaSmelt furnace, which improved smelting efficiency [5][6]. Group 4: Mentorship and Legacy - Xu Chengdong has been recognized with numerous awards, including national labor model and technical expert honors, and he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of smelting professionals [7][8]. - He established the "Xu Chengdong Labor Model Innovation Studio" to promote technical skills and innovation in lead smelting, focusing on addressing production challenges and fostering talent development [7][8]. - His efforts have led to the successful completion of over 20 technological improvement projects, significantly impacting the company's operational efficiency and profitability [8].