"Quantum Leap from Outdated Equipment to Smart Processes"

Sama Precision Introduces Smart Press Equipment Through 'Smart Manufacturing Support Project'
SEMAS Invests 88.2 Billion Won to Help 1,800 Companies Digitize Work Processes

"Digital transformation once felt overwhelming, but after introducing automated equipment, I can truly feel its impact."

Sama Precision, a company specializing in press processing and mold manufacturing located in Buk-gu, Daegu, assists clients with everything from mold design to production, packaging, and delivery. Last year, the company participated in the Small Enterprise and Market Service's (SEMAS) 'Smart Manufacturing Support Project for Small Manufacturers' and introduced smart press equipment.

On July 9, Park Soondeuk, CEO of Sama Precision, said, "With the market for processing contracts shrinking and orders and sales declining due to various social issues, it was a time when change and innovation were absolutely necessary." He added, "While considering the need for modern production processes to enhance technological competitiveness, I learned about the 'Smart Manufacturing Support Project' through a business partner and decided to apply."

Founded in 2007, Sama Precision has grown by focusing on processing and mold-based product manufacturing, producing molds for more than 300 companies over the past 20 years. The company has been recognized for its sophisticated technical capabilities and know-how, producing a wide range of parts for agricultural, industrial, and construction sectors, including tractor parts for agricultural machinery, high-quality construction materials, and durable automobile components.

However, despite being the foundation of Korea's manufacturing competitiveness, core industries such as metal processing and mold manufacturing face difficulties in technological development and establishing IT-based automation due to their small scale. Sama Precision also struggled with workforce shortages, declining productivity, and safety management. To overcome these challenges, the company participated in SEMAS's Smart Manufacturing Support Project, upgrading its outdated facilities to smart automated processes. As a result, it achieved significant improvements in both productivity and quality.

Exterior view of the Small Enterprise and Market Service located in Yuseong-gu, Daejeon. Small Enterprise and Market Service

Previously, the company could not collect equipment data, making it difficult to monitor production status. Mold setup and defect detection were all done manually. This led to long mold changeover times and limited quality control due to reliance on visual inspection for defect detection.

However, after introducing the smart automated press equipment (MCP_110T), equipment data and real-time power consumption are now automatically collected, and mold changes have become more efficient through automatic setup. Defect detection is now automated using sensors, and system management based on process data is possible, greatly improving overall stability and efficiency in the production process.

As a result of these changes, hourly production increased by about 17%, from 113 units to 132 units, and the defect rate was dramatically reduced from 0.8% to 0.2%. In addition, the company can now identify the causes of downtime by process and has established a preventive maintenance system, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and improving overall operational stability. With improved productivity and quality, the company expects these advancements to significantly contribute to securing additional orders and increasing sales. CEO Park expressed satisfaction, saying, "Efficient process management and quality improvement based on data are now possible, and it has become much easier for employees operating the machines to do their jobs."

The smart transformation of small manufacturers in Korea, like Sama Precision, is expected to spread further. SEMAS is promoting the 'Smart Manufacturing Support Project' to enhance productivity and competitiveness among small manufacturers. In 2025 alone, SEMAS plans to invest 88.2 billion won to support 1,800 small manufacturers in digitalizing traditionally manual processes.

This project is divided into the 'General Type,' which targets individual small manufacturers, and the 'Cluster Type,' which involves multiple companies participating together. Manufacturing small businesses with fewer than 10 regular employees are eligible to apply, and each company can receive up to 42 million won in support for smart equipment and software rental costs. The General Type supports the introduction of automated equipment and operational software, while the Cluster Type allows groups of 10 to 25 small manufacturers to collaborate on joint projects, such as building smart factories, supply chain management systems, and acquiring shared equipment.

Park Sunghyo, Chairman of SEMAS, stated, "The Smart Manufacturing Support Project for Small Manufacturers is not just about supporting equipment adoption; it also helps companies improve processes and build data-driven management capabilities." He added, "We will actively support small manufacturers so they can establish a stable production base in an era that demands both technological strength and efficiency."