On May 29, 2025, a group of students participated in an Immersion Class visit to SMC, an enterprise renowned for its advanced pneumatic and automation technologies. The visit was led by Professor Linning Cai and Visiting Professor Kaiwei Li, with strong support from SMC. It offered students valuable exposure to real-world industrial practices, corporate governance, and sustainable manufacturing strategies.

Warm welcome from SMC to begin a day of learning and exchange

During the visit, students toured SMC’s production facilities and observed the integration of sintered metal technologies with smart manufacturing systems. The tour highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainable production, including energy-saving solutions and efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions. Students engaged directly with engineers and explored automation technologies such as pneumatic components, actuators, flow and pressure sensors, and intelligent control systems.

Introduction to advanced pneumatic components and applications

Originally a manufacturer of sintered filters, SMC has grown into a global leader in factory automation. Its management philosophy emphasizes labor-saving automation while maintaining high standards in product quality, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. Students also gained insight into how SMC aligns its operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas such as water conservation, eco-friendly materials, and smart control.

Students observe a live demonstration of an automated material handling system

The visit to SMC offered students valuable insight into how global enterprises integrate automation, sustainability, and quality in modern manufacturing. It provided a meaningful opportunity to bridge academic learning with real-world industrial experience. Sincere thanks to SMC for their warm hospitality and thoughtful support throughout the visit.

Writer: Prabina Basnet

Photographers: Lijuan Wen, Prabina Basnet

Reviewers: Liang Ma, Lefei Li