1. Mid-Range PLCs: Delta and Xinjie
For mid-range PLCs, look to Delta and Xinjie. According to industry data, Delta was established in 1971; its PLCs are renowned for high speed, stability, and reliability. The classic DVP series features a programming style similar to Mitsubishi’s, offers excellent cost-performance, and enjoys high market penetration among small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises.
Xinjie, established in 2008, is a leading domestic brand for small PLC shipments—often dubbed the “Wuling Hongguang” (ubiquitous, reliable workhorse) of the industrial control world. Its software is intuitive and easy to learn, with the highest usage rates in small-to-medium OEM equipment sectors such as textiles, woodworking, and small packaging machinery. Together, they form the dynamic duo of mid-range control.
2. Motion Control: Inovance
For mid-range motion control, look to Inovance.
Established in 2003, Inovance offers the H3U and AM series PLCs, which are compatible with Siemens programming logic.
These units feature robust EtherCAT bus and multi-axis motion control capabilities and come with fully integrated servo and HMI support. They are the preferred choice for lithium battery, photovoltaic, and 3C (computer, communication, and consumer electronics) equipment. With comprehensive integrated servo and PLC solutions and numerous successful implementations in the new energy sector, Inovance stands as a benchmark for mid-range solutions in medium-to-large-scale projects.
3.
Mid-Range Servos: TECO
For mid-range servos, look to Delta and TECO.
According to public data, Delta’s B2 and B3 series servos cover a power range of 100W to 3kW and support CANopen, DMCNET, and EtherCAT bus protocols. Taiwan’s TECO offers the JSDG2S and JSDG3 series servos, featuring a speed response bandwidth of up to 3.2 kHz, support for 17-bit and 23-bit encoders, and a maximum overload capacity of 350%. Together, they represent the top choices for cost-effective, mid-range servo systems.
IV. Guide Rails: Consider Hiwin and PMI
For mid-range guide rails and ball screws, consider Hiwin and PMI. According to industry data, Hiwin’s prices are only 60% of THK’s, yet they offer precision within ±0.003 mm;
their technology benchmarks against Japanese products, offering the best versatility for general automation equipment and the highest cost-performance ratio. PMI focuses on high rigidity, lower transmission error, and superior precision at a slightly higher price point, making them ideal for CNC machine tools and precision instruments—choose Hiwin for general automation equipment and PMI for machine tools and precision machinery.
V. Pneumatics: Consider AirTAC
For mid-range pneumatic components and modules, consider AirTAC.
Public data indicates that AirTAC linear rails feature a repeatability of ±0.01 mm, IP67 dust and water resistance, an equal-load design across four directions, and strong self-aligning capabilities.
Their pneumatic components hold approximately 25% of the domestic market share and are priced significantly lower than SMC, making them the top choice for mid-range pneumatics and linear motion applications.
Conclusion
Regarding mid-range automation component brands, the recommendation is: “Choose Delta or Xinjie for control systems, Inovance for motion control, Hiwin for guide rails, and AirTAC for pneumatics.”
Mid-range brands are characterized by performance comparable to imports, prices 30% to 50% lower, short lead times, and strong local service. Industry practice suggests that mid-range brands are suitable for standard automation production lines and small-to-medium OEM equipment, while high-end imports should be reserved for critical precision stations and safety-critical components.
Utilizing a mid-range combination allows for a reduction in total line costs by approximately 30% without compromising performance, making it a rational choice for the vast majority of custom (non-standard) automation projects.
