Home Corui Tech Achieves Milestone of 100 UHPLC Systems Sold, Accelerating Domestic Substitution in Clinical Diagnostics

Corui Tech Achieves Milestone of 100 UHPLC Systems Sold, Accelerating Domestic Substitution in Clinical Diagnostics

Jul 31, 2023 08:00 CST Updated 08:00

In June, the 100th APUS series ultra-high performance liquid chromatography system produced by Kerui Technology was completed and delivered to customers. Previously, the company's productsHas been adopted by institutions including Sichuan University, the Chengdu Institute of Biology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Material Evidence Identification and Research Center of the Shandong Provincial Public Security Department, the Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, and Sichuan Agricultural University., and has gained widespread recognition.


The successful completion of the 100th delivery not only affirms Kerui Technology’s accumulation of self-developed core technologies and independent production of key components, but also marks the beginning of a new phase in the company’s commercialization. This is a small step for Kerui Technology, but a giant leap for China’s high-end instrument market.


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Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd. is the first enterprise in China to develop and successfully commercialize ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems. Since the installation and delivery of its first APUS UHPLC system in February 2021, the company has continuously strengthened its independent R&D and manufacturing capabilities over the past two years. The localization rate of core components has exceeded 80%, while its marketing and sales teams have been steadily expanded, enabling rapid market penetration in the high-barrier UHPLC sector.


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Mr. Liu Feng, founder of Kerui Technology, stated: “Based on the company’s current order volume and shipment volume,”Ultra-high Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) Sales to Exceed 200 Units This Year。”


Tapping into a multi-billion-dollar market, developing core components in-house, and driving supply chain localization


“The 14th Five-Year Plan and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035” mentions the need to strengthen the research, development, and manufacturing of high-end scientific instruments and equipment. Liquid chromatographs are important scientific instruments that can separate compounds from complex samples and analyze their composition and content. Currently, liquid chromatographs are widely used in many fields, including life sciences research, pharmaceutical analysis, food safety, environmental monitoring, clinical testing, and industrial manufacturing.

 

With the implementation of the 14th Five-Year Plan for scientific research, the demand for analytical instruments has grown rapidly, leading to a surge in the liquid chromatography market.According to statistics from Kerui Technology, the annual number of new liquid chromatography units installed in China is approximately 28,000 to 30,000, with the procurement market size for liquid chromatography exceeding RMB 10 billion.Meanwhile, the application demands for liquid chromatography are expanding from conventional chromatographic separation to ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) analysis and two-dimensional liquid chromatography (2D-LC) analysis. Industry standards are continuously being updated, and rapid chromatographic analysis technologies, represented by UHPLC technology, are gradually becoming the market mainstream.

 

An operating pressure of 16,000 psi (pounds per square inch) is the criterion for determining whether a liquid chromatograph qualifies as an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) system. Compared with conventional liquid chromatographs,Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems can shorten analysis time, achieving a daily sample throughput three times that of conventional systems. Moreover, organic solvent consumption is only 6%–12% of that required by traditional liquid chromatography techniques. This not only effectively enhances the efficiency of validating research findings but also reduces research expenditures and minimizes environmental pollution.

 

It has been nearly 20 years since the advent of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) technology in 2004, butCurrently, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) instruments account for only 20% of the liquid chromatography market share in China, and the segment remains monopolized by foreign brands such as Waters, Shimadzu, Agilent, and Thermo Fisher.. The persistently high prices of imported brands have, to some extent, limited technology adoption.

 

Meanwhile, domestic manufacturers face import-dependent bottlenecks in the independent manufacturing of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems. UHPLC is a complex systemic engineering endeavor, wherein core components such as infusion pumps, six-port valves, and pressure sensors, along with the overall system design, critically determine its performance. For instance, UHPLC requires liquid chromatography infusion pumps capable of withstanding ultra-high pressures while delivering precise flow control; their durability, accuracy, and stability constitute the primary prerequisites for evaluating instrument quality.

 

However, key components such as infusion pumps, six-port valves, and pressure sensors used in China are largely sourced from overseas suppliers. This reliance hinders customized development and exposes manufacturers to significant risks stemming from international relations and supplier operational stability, resulting in uncontrollable procurement costs, delivery timelines, and component quality. Therefore, achieving independent manufacturing of core components is critical to the holistic development of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems.

 

Since its inception, Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd. has recognized the importance of independently developing core components and localizing its supply chain in China. More than half of the company’s employees are dedicated to research and development.After conducting in-depth research into advanced overseas manufacturing processes and integrating cross-industry manufacturing expertise from sectors such as automotive production, Kerui Technology launched its first ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography pump. The company subsequently achieved breakthroughs in the manufacturing processes of core components, including GPV flow-path proportioning switching valves and pressure sensors, becoming one of the few domestic liquid chromatography manufacturers to master these core manufacturing technologies.

 

Specifically, the six-port valve serves as an ideal injector for ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems. Its structural design and switching speed directly impact injection efficiency, while its service life determines the instrument’s operational costs. Mr. Liu Feng, founder of Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd., stated: “Currently, most commercially available six-port valves on the market are designed for routine applications, leaving room for improvement in terms of switching speed and durability. Due to the high operational efficiency of UHPLC systems, conventional domestically produced commercial six-port valves require replacement after 20,000 cycles. The high manufacturing costs and frequent replacement needs have become barriers to the application of domestically produced liquid chromatography products.Kerui Tech's six-port valve enables 60,000 stable uses in ultra-high performance liquid chromatography systems.。”

 

Meanwhile, the independent manufacturing of high-precision pressure sensors is also one of the main challenges in developing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography systems. CurrentlyOnly two companies worldwide can manufacture high-precision pressure sensors with a range of 30,000 psi and a pressure fluctuation resolution of <1 psi., Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd. is one of them, truly breaking the import monopoly.

 

Currently, Kerui Technology has established a complete product supply chain encompassing injection systems, ultra-high-pressure liquid delivery systems, high-precision chromatographic separation systems, high-sensitivity detection systems, and specialized chromatographic data processing systems. In addition to independently developing core components, Kerui Technology primarily sources other components and consumables from domestic suppliers.Currently, the localization rate of the company's components has exceeded 80%, and is expected to reach 90% by the end of the year.. This not only facilitates the iterative upgrading of new products, but also ensures production efficiency, increases capacity, and strengthens quality.


"Adhering to the business philosophy of automation, intelligence, and differentiation, setting a benchmark for China's manufacturing industry."


Leveraging its core technologies and self-built supply chain, Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd. can promptly respond to niche market demands and rapidly develop and iterate ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) products. The company’s development strategy is to focus on niche segments that industry leaders are unwilling or unable to address effectively, aiming to secure a top-three position—and strive for number one—in these markets, thereby achieving the competitive advantage of “offering what others do not, and doing better what others do.”

 

Kerui Technology's APUS PLUS Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatograph is domesticallyThe First Product with a Pressure Rating of 16,000 psiIts ultra-high-pressure six-port valve employs patented CFS technology to effectively minimize pressure fluctuations during switching. The valve surface is coated with a high-strength, wear-resistant layer, remaining leak-free after 50,000 test cycles. The pressure sensor features zero dead volume and ultra-high precision. The ultra-high-pressure dual-plunger series pump delivers stable flow rates that remain unaffected by changes in system pressure. The autosampler adopts an innovative structural design, ensuring high injection precision and minimal risk of cross-contamination. The pre-heater effectively prevents irregular peak broadening caused by ambient temperature variations. The online degasser eliminates bubble interference and boasts a mean time between failures (MTBF) exceeding 10,000 hours. It is precisely through the meticulous refinement of these components that the company’s integrated system maintains precise and stable operation.


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Meanwhile, Kerui Technology’s ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems are evolving toward greater intelligence and automation. Although the demand for liquid chromatography testing in China is continuously growing, some operators lack experience; improper operation can easily cause instrument damage or significantly reduce detection efficiency and accuracy.In addition to market education, Kerui Technology is lowering the barrier to instrument usage by simplifying pre-analytical sample processing workflows, providing intelligent software-guided operations, and enabling automated analysis.

 

Operators need only place the samples to be tested into Kerui Technology’s ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) system, where one-click operation completes sample pretreatment. The system provides intelligent operational guidance, effectively lowering the technical barrier for use, reducing the workload of laboratory personnel, and facilitating the standardization of test results.The Company Will Soon Launch Automated Processing Systems for Food Safety and Clinical Testing, can be coupled with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems to form an intelligent solution.

 

The development strategy of “high-quality technical products + targeting niche markets” has enabled Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd. to establish a leading position in multiple niche markets. For example,In the field of wastewater-based drug testing for public security, Kerui Technology’s online SPE liquid chromatography systems have captured over 30% of the market share.


Mr. Liu Feng stated, “The Chinese market has its unique characteristics. While there is a common need to save labor and reduce expenses, enterprises must identify and address key pain points. Rather than pursuing a broad and comprehensive layout, Kerui Technology is carving out a distinctive path, currently focusing on the development of clinical therapeutic drug monitoring, food safety, and environmental testing.”


Streamline the Entire Product Development Chain to Accelerate Market Expansion at Home and Abroad


Beyond innovative technological products, the delivery of hundreds of APUS series ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography systems underscores Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd.’s increasingly robust capabilities in production, marketing, and service.

 

At the production level, Kerui Technology has established its own manufacturing base,The complete system production capacity can reach 1,000 units/year, with annual output of core components such as six-port valves and gradient proportioning valves exceeding 10,000 pieces.. Meanwhile, the company is building an automated production line, which will significantly improve production efficiency and standardization.

 

At the marketing level, Kerui Technology has been continuously strengthening its sales and marketing team. Mr. Lu Hui, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), previously served as an executive at several international analytical instrument companies and brings 20 years of experience in sales and team management. He has built an internationalized team at Kerui Technology encompassing sales services, application technology R&D, marketing management, and after-sales support. Currently, Kerui Technology’s sales network covers the entire country.

 

At the service level, Kerui Technology has established a nationwide service network in China, enabling rapid 24-hour response across multiple regions. The company also commits to free repair and replacement of parts during the instrument warranty period.

 

In summary, Kerui Technology has established a complete development chain encompassing the R&D, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service of ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems.The company’s APUS series products have been widely adopted by testing agencies, medical institutions, research organizations, and government laboratories, and are exported to countries including Russia and Pakistan.


Kerui Technology is actively expanding into overseas markets, leveraging its innovative products and independent supply chain to capture niche segments in Europe and North America, while also entering the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia in alignment with China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Furthermore, Kerui Technology is strengthening international trade cooperation to secure high-quality overseas business resources and broaden its marketing channels.


Rapidly advance OEM and complete-unit sales businesses, with this year's revenue projected to triple.


Mr. Liu Feng believes that over the past seven years, Kerui Technology has been “sharpening its sword,” and now is the time to unleash its edge. With a background in marketing, he firmly believes that “the dividends of technology are enduring.”

 

Kerui Technology has independently developed liquid chromatographs, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatographs (UHPLC), liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry systems (LC-QQQ-MS), gas chromatography-quadrupole and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry systems (GC-Q/MS and GC-QQQ-MS), as well as related automated sample preparation products. In addition to manufacturing and selling complete instruments, the company also provides OEM services for entire systems, offering core components such as high-pressure infusion pumps, six-port valves, gradient proportioning valves, and pressure sensors, along with full-instrument development services to customers in the mass spectrometry and chromatography sectors.Previously established collaborations with industry leaders such as Autobio Diagnostics and BGI Genomics

 

Mr. Liu Feng stated, “In the domestic clinical mass spectrometry sector, most manufacturers, in addition to sourcing imported components, purchase products from Kerui Technology. We hold significant advantages in terms of performance, stability, and overall cost-effectiveness.”Kerui Technology is transitioning from a traditional liquid chromatography instrument manufacturer to a supplier of components, application solutions, and automated system products.Currently, the company has achieved self-sustainability, with its revenue continuing to grow.Revenue in 2023 is projected to triple compared to 2022.

 

As domestic manufacturers such as Kerui Technology enter the market with cost-effective products, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) systems will accelerate their replacement of conventional liquid chromatography (LC) systems. Kerui Technology will collaborate with related enterprises by providing core components and solutions, while jointly promoting market education. Mr. Liu Feng stated, “Currently, China’s UHPLC market is still in its nascent stage. Industry participants need to work together to drive sector development, and Kerui Technology will spare no effort in supporting its industry peers.”

 

In its future development, Kerui Technology will pursue both OEM services and the development and sales of complete instruments. The company will provide professional and efficient services to its existing OEM clients while actively expanding its customer base. Meanwhile, it will continue to optimize and iterate its current ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) products, and develop intelligent and automated solutions tailored to the needs of specific market segments, thereby gradually enhancing its influence in the retail market.


In recent years, the demand for efficient and precise liquid chromatography technology in clinical testing has been growing. Chengdu Kerui Science And Technology Co., Ltd. (Kerui Tech) has closely followed this trend by strategically focusing on the clinical market. The sales of Kerui Tech’s APUS series ultra-high-end liquid chromatographs have surpassed 100 units, marking a milestone in product development. This achievement also signifies that clinical precision testing now has access to higher-quality, more cost-effective tools, ultimately benefiting a broad patient population.