As a Fortune 500 company and one of the world’s top 50 chemical corporations, Praxair has consistently demonstrated its leadership in industrial gas solutions. In an interview with a reporter, Ai Kewen, Director of the Asia-Pacific Research and Development Center at Praxair, emphasized that continuous technological innovation is key to maintaining this position. He highlighted that innovation isn’t just about developing new products—it's about solving real-world challenges for customers across industries.
Praxair currently holds over 3,000 independent patents, and its commitment to R&D is evident in its substantial investments. In 2004, the company allocated $77 million to research and development, while another $634 million was invested in constructing new facilities and implementing cutting-edge technologies. Over the past century, Praxair has pioneered numerous innovations that have been widely adopted in sectors such as steelmaking, chemicals, energy, aerospace, electronics, healthcare, manufacturing, glass production, wastewater treatment, and food processing. These advancements help customers enhance productivity and achieve greater environmental benefits.
Ai Kewen noted two major technological milestones since the company's founding in 1907: the development of the most efficient industrial gas supply systems and the application of innovative technologies that address productivity, cost, and environmental concerns. One standout example is the vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) system for oxygen production. In the 1950s, Praxair’s predecessor introduced synthetic zeolite molecular sieves, and by the 1970s, the VPSA process was fully developed. Today, combining these elements with modern technology allows for maximum energy efficiency and cost reduction. This system is now widely used in China across various applications.
Another notable innovation is the CoJetâ„¢ technology, which injects oxygen into steelmaking furnaces. This high-speed, laser-like oxygen jet penetrates deeper into the furnace, improving mixing and enhancing both production efficiency and product quality while reducing costs. The technology has been successfully commercialized in China for electric arc furnaces and top-blown converters.
Ai Kewen also mentioned that Praxair focuses on delivering tailored solutions that meet local needs, particularly in China. Since establishing its first joint venture in 1992, the company has provided advanced on-site aeration wastewater treatment systems, bundled jet technology, and solutions to improve coal-fired power plant efficiency and reduce emissions. Through on-site gas supply systems, Praxair ensures safe and cost-effective industrial gas delivery. Additional technologies include ultra-high-purity atmospheric gas systems and advanced gas monitoring systems, which support critical impurity management and technical analysis, ensuring compliance with high standards.
Currently, Praxair operates 10 joint ventures and 12 wholly-owned companies in China, and it plays a leading role in the China Economic and Technical Alliance. Over the past decade, the company has achieved an annual sales growth rate of 9% and revenue growth of 13%. To sustain this performance, Ai Kewen stressed the importance of continuous innovation, faster development aligned with industry needs, and the use of advanced supply systems to lower costs and increase stability. Whether for new or existing plants, process optimization and control systems are essential for boosting productivity.
In China, Praxair remains committed to supporting economic growth, promoting energy efficiency, and improving environmental quality while meeting domestic market demands. Its long-term success is built on a foundation of innovation, customer focus, and a deep understanding of local needs.
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