From March 30 to April 1, 2026, the 4th China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry (CANSI) Exchange Conference on the Application of New Shipbuilding Processes and Equipment was successfully held in Nanjing, Jiangsu. With the theme “New Processes, New Equipment, Building New Quality Productive Forces,” the conference brought together over 300 industry representatives from shipbuilding enterprises, equipment manufacturers, and research institutions across the country. As a globally renowned company in plasma cutting and gouging technology, Hypertherm from the United States was invited to attend. It delivered a keynote speech titled “Bid Farewell to Noise and Pollution! Hypertherm Plasma Gouging Revolutionizes Shipbuilding Back Gouging Processes,” engaging in lively discussions and exchanges with on-site attendees to envision a new future of green and intelligent shipbuilding.
At the conference, Hypertherm highlighted its innovative achievement in the field of ship back gouging processes—the Plasma Gouging System. This system can fully replace traditional carbon arc gouging, effectively addressing long-standing environmental and labor challenges in the shipbuilding industry, such as heavy smoke and dust, intense arc light, and high noise levels.
How is the Back Gouging Process “Transformed”?
In the keynote speech, Hypertherm used real-world cases from shipyard customers to detail three major application solutions of Hypertherm Plasma Gouging.
Automated Gantry Plasma Gouging: One-pass forming on panel lines, grinding volume reduced by 75%, with a total gouging seam length of 1000-1200 meters per set of consumables.
Semi-Automatic Tractor Plasma Gouging: Measured dust reduction of 80%, noise reduction of 10%, easy for beginners to operate.
Handheld Plasma Gouging: Capable of both cutting and gouging, lightweight and flexible, no carburization when processing stainless steel, saving 90% of grinding time.
Beyond Gouging: Hypertherm Empowers the Entire Shipbuilding Process
At the exhibition booth during the conference, Hypertherm displayed workpieces demonstrating plasma gouging and bevel cutting applications, visually showcasing the significant advantages of plasma gouging in groove consistency, surface finish, and automation compatibility. Representatives from multiple shipyards engaged in in-depth discussions on-site and expressed high recognition for the practical benefits of Hypertherm Plasma Gouging in improving the working environment, lowering the skill threshold for labor, and enhancing production efficiency.
From bevel cutting in the blanking stage, to back gouging in block construction, and to flexible handheld operations during final assembly, Hypertherm plasma technology runs through the entire shipbuilding process, helping shipyards operate efficiently and safely.
A Promising Future: Partner with Hypertherm to Make Back Gouging “Cleaner”
As the pioneer and continuous leader in global plasma cutting technology, Hypertherm is always committed to providing efficient, clean, and reliable solutions for the shipbuilding industry. This exchange conference was not only a concentrated showcase of Hypertherm Plasma Gouging technology but also a crucial milestone in promoting the comprehensive upgrade of shipbuilding back gouging processes from traditional carbon arc gouging to plasma gouging. In the future, Hypertherm will continue to collaborate with Chinese shipbuilding enterprises, empowering green shipbuilding and intelligent manufacturing with innovative technology to support the industry’s high-quality development.
If you are also troubled by the smoke, dust, noise, and labor challenges in back gouging processes, please feel free to contact Hypertherm for a free process evaluation and an opportunity for an on-site or remote demonstration.
