Andy Lu, Global Business Director at Hydwin Robotics, a leading provider of integrated solutions for industrial anti-corrosion, spoke to Seatrade Maritime News about AI and robotic automation technology's application and developments.
Its flagship Treatment Carrier D&X series products are designed to clean ship hulls and other large-area steel structures, as well as coating removal, and surface preparation, which are particularly effective in handling complex surfaces such as ship sides, bilge keels, and flat bottoms.
“Hydwin Robotics is also exploring new sectors like offshore oil and gas and large infrastructure projects, where our technology can provide significant efficiency and environmental benefits,” Lu said.
Hydwin Robotics solutions have been deployed by top shipyards and companies in maritime industry, including shipyards such as COSCO, CSSC, and shipowners such as Maersk and MSC.
“AI-driven algorithms are integrated into Hydwin Robotics' systems to optimize surface preparation processes. The AI system controls autonomous navigation, adjusts cleaning parameters in real time, and ensures optimal path tracking. This not only improves cleaning accuracy but also enhances operational efficiency by continuously adapting to different surface types and conditions,” Lu continued.
Hydwin Robotics currently holds an estimated 45% market share in China's robotic solutions for hull coating removal and surface preparation, planning to further solidify the position by expanding service offerings and enhancing collaboration with local shipyards and industrial sectors.
Internationally, the company aims to grow its presence in major ship repair and maintenance clusters in Middle East, Southeast Asia and Europe where demand for sustainable and efficient maritime solutions is increasing. Hydwin Robotics will also explore opportunities in other sectors such as petrochemicals and large-scale infrastructure projects, leveraging our advanced technology to meet diverse industry needs.
Chinese clients and international clients have different demands when it comes to choosing products. Lu explained, “Domestic clients in China tend to prioritize speed and cost-efficiency, focusing on fast project turnaround and value for money. They also expect localized support and quick response times. Global clients, particularly in regions like Europe, often place more emphasis on sustainability, compliance with international environmental regulations, and long-term reliability. These clients tend to have specific operational needs and often require solutions tailored to their complex and large-scale industrial operations.”
Hydwin Robotics has recently raised tens of millions of Chinese yuan with the Series A funding, and is planning to accelerate product development and market expansion. This investment will enable the company to refine the existing robotic systems, with a focus on improving AI integration, increasing operational efficiency, and expanding our autonomous capabilities.
“The next phases will focus on refining Treatment Carrier D and X series, enhancing autonomous capabilities, and improving AI integration. We will also work on expanding our manufacturing capacity to meet increasing global demand. Market-wise, we will expand both domestically and internationally, targeting new regions and industries while further strengthening our presence in the maritime and petrochemical sectors. Our focus will be on pushing the boundaries of innovation in robotic solutions for industrial surface preparation,” added Lu.
(News sourced from Seatrade Maritime News.)
