Core Viewpoint - The successful development of the 36,000-ton vertical extrusion press by China North Heavy Industries Group represents a significant breakthrough in China's high-end manufacturing capabilities, overcoming previous reliance on foreign technology and equipment [1][5][7]. Group 1: Challenges in High-End Manufacturing - In 2006, China's high-end manufacturing faced significant challenges, particularly in the production of large, complex components required for major national projects, which were largely dependent on foreign technology [2][3]. - The lack of domestic manufacturing capabilities and reliance on a 3,150-ton horizontal extrusion press highlighted the "bottleneck" issues in the industry [2]. Group 2: Development Journey - The development of the 36,000-ton vertical extrusion press was led by Lei Bingwang, who faced numerous challenges including a lack of technical solutions, manufacturing capabilities, and experience [3][4]. - The project involved innovative design and manufacturing techniques, aiming for a maximum extrusion pressure of 36,000 tons and a pipe diameter of 1.2 meters, marking a significant technical challenge [3][4]. Group 3: Achievements and Impact - The extrusion press successfully completed its first hot test in July 2009, producing seamless steel pipes with an outer diameter of 700 mm and a wall thickness of 100 mm, breaking the long-standing foreign monopoly [5]. - The press has been in stable operation for 15 years, achieving an annual working time of 8,200 hours and is recognized as a leading technology in the industry [5][6]. - The production line has significantly contributed to the domestic market, with P92 steel pipes being used in 85% of new ultra-supercritical thermal power units in the last three years [6]. Group 4: Future Directions - The successful development of the extrusion press is just the beginning; the focus is now on high-quality, low-consumption production techniques to enhance competitiveness against foreign pricing [6]. - Innovations in manufacturing technologies for high-performance, low-cost products are underway, including breakthroughs in G115 martensitic steel and support for major national engineering projects [6].