Reporter: Ryu Han-yeol | Published: May 6, 2024
[The Person in Focus] Lee Byung-soon, CEO of TSG Co., Ltd.
(Grinding Machine Manufacturer based in Changwon)
- Established in 2000; specializes in high-rigidity, ultra-precision grinding machines.
- Leading the localization and technological advancement of grinding machine technology.
- Developed the ‘2-Roll 1-Shoe Type’ internal grinder in 2022.
- Overcoming stagnant sales through exports driven by top-tier technology.
- Focusing on developing grinders tailored for the electric vehicle (EV) market.
A Pioneer in Localizing Precision Technology
Located in the Charyong Complex in Changwon, TSG (Technical Service of Grinder) is a manufacturer specializing in high-rigidity and ultra-precision grinding machines. At the heart of opening the era of domestic grinding machines stands CEO Lee Byung-soon.
“When TSG was founded in 2000, most specialized grinders used in Korea were imported. Companies using these machines struggled with maintenance and repairs. Based on the expertise I gained at my previous company, I believed there was a winning chance if I started a company to manufacture these machines myself,” Lee explained.
CEO Lee is a recognized leader in specialized grinding technology. For the past 25 years, he has spearheaded two major projects: the localization and the technological advancement of Korean grinding machines. TSG’s growth—from initial design to full-scale production through R&D—offers a glimpse into both its past and future.
Technological Breakthroughs: The 2-Roll 1-Shoe Type
In the Changwon National Industrial Complex, the history of specialized grinding technology is synonymous with the history of TSG. In May 2022, TSG gained significant industry recognition by developing the ‘2-Roll 1-Shoe Type’ internal grinder.
Thin, small-scale products are notoriously difficult to grind because they tend to deform when clamped (chucked) into a machine. TSG’s new model proved its excellence in grinding small products with a diameter of less than 10mm that are thin and non-magnetic. This innovation became highly popular for manufacturing miniature bearings and automotive parts.
TSG focuses on four main types of grinders:
- Internal Grinders
- External Grinders
- Centerless Grinders
- Super Finishing Machines
TSG machines are optimized for high-precision grinding in short cycles, making them ideal for 24-hour factory operations. Their primary applications include bearings, automotive engines, transmissions, refrigerator/air conditioner compressors, and hydraulic components.
Exceeding Expectations: 300% Productivity Boost
The data from clients using TSG grinders in the field is remarkable. In one instance, a client was using an imported grinder to process a hybrid vehicle engine part in 4 minutes and 30 seconds. By switching to a TSG machine, they reduced the time to 1 minute and 30 seconds, increasing productivity by 300%.
Furthermore, a production process that previously had a 20% defect rate despite manual inspections was fully automated. To date, over 10 units have been delivered, and production is increasing alongside the rising sales of hybrid vehicles. TSG has completed patent registration for this machine and is currently preparing for NET (New Excellent Technology) certification.
The Future: AI, Predictive Maintenance, and EVs
TSG’s innovation is an ongoing process. The company is now focusing on the AI era, developing machines that can self-diagnose their condition to minimize maintenance costs (predictive maintenance).
Another focus is the Super Finishing Machine, which meets the demand for ultra-fine surface roughness. As the automotive industry shifts toward low-noise, low-vibration, and high-durability components, the demand for these high-precision machines is expected to soar.
To address the shift from internal combustion engines to Electric Vehicles (EVs)—which utilize fewer parts—TSG is actively developing specialized grinders for EV-specific components and working on cost-reduction strategies.
Going Global
TSG is now knocking on the doors of the global market. The company frequently meets with international partners and participates in machine tool exhibitions. Recently, inquiries and visits to the Changwon headquarters have increased from countries like India, Indonesia, China, and Vietnam. TSG plans to export entire grinding production lines starting next year.
While annual sales remained stagnant for the past few years, they are expected to rise significantly this year as the market responds to TSG’s future-oriented technologies.
“Since founding the company, I have focused solely on the development and production of grinding machines,” said CEO Lee Byung-soon. “Just as we upgraded the quality of domestic grinders, we will now introduce the world’s best-performing machines to the global market.”
