China has recently launched a national innovation center for high-end equipment nondestructive testing (NDT) in Beijing, aiming to advance intelligent inspection technologies to support the country's smart manufacturing sector. 

The center, under the State Administration for Market Regulation and primarily supported by the defense technology research and test center of China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation Limited (CASIC), focuses on cutting-edge, disruptive, and common technology research in high-end equipment nondestructive testing, People's Daily reported on March 10. 

It seeks to create a collaborative platform that integrates industry, academia, and research, according to the report. 

"With the rapid advancement of modern high-end equipment, such as aerospace products, nuclear power equipment, and large-scale bridge structures, the application of new materials, processes, and intelligent manufacturing has brought a series of monitoring and evaluation challenges," said Li Hongmin, chairman of the innovation center and director of the CASIC defense technology research and test center. 

"The innovation center will address gaps in these fields by developing advanced NDT technologies while enhancing their intelligence, informatization and standardization," Li added. 

The innovation center brings together 46 leading institutions, including Xi'an Jiaotong University, Harbin Institute of Technology, and China Special Equipment Inspection and Research Institute, forming a collaborative alliance to drive technological breakthroughs and elevate industry standards.