Central McGowan
St. Cloud, MN family-owned industrial gas and welding distributor with a FANUC-authorized robotics integration division serving the Midwest since 1965.
Central McGowan is a third-generation, family-owned diversified industrial supply and automation company headquartered at 123 Roosevelt Road, St. Cloud, Minnesota 56301. The company was established in 1965 through the merger of McGowan Welding Supply of Little Falls (founded in 1947) and Central Welding Supply of St. Cloud. Today it operates across three integrated business divisions.
The first and largest division is Industrial, Welding and Medical Gas Distribution: Central McGowan is Minnesota's largest independent, locally-owned distributor of industrial and welding gases, medical gases, welding equipment and supplies, abrasives, safety equipment, and related consumables. The company delivers liquid and packaged gas across most of Minnesota and Iowa, and parts of Wisconsin, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
The second division is Automation and Robotics Integration: In 2015, Central McGowan expanded into robotic system integration and is an authorized FANUC integrator. Operating from a dedicated 12,000-square-foot automation center adjacent to its St. Cloud headquarters, this division provides fully engineered fixed automation, robotic welding cells, robotic material handling, and hybrid automation systems. It serves customers across the Midwest, on both U.S. coasts, and in Texas, with the ability to handle national and international projects. The company has added robotics-focused leadership, including a VP and General Manager for its growing automation practice.
The third division is CO2 Solutions: Central McGowan supplies beverage carbonation CO2, water treatment solutions, and dry ice to commercial and industrial customers.
In recent years, Central McGowan merged with Minneapolis Oxygen to form CM2 Supply, a combined entity with over 20 locations across the Midwest. Central McGowan is a member of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). Phone: +1 320-257-4800. Fax: +1 320-252-7807.
Relevance to robotics: The company's FANUC-authorized integration division is a legitimate robotics and automation business unit, and Central McGowan is appropriately listed in robotics industry directories such as A3's member database.
Primary type & automation activities this supplier delivers:
FANUC Robotic Welding & Automation Systems
Fully engineered FANUC robotic welding cells and automation systems for Midwest manufacturers, designed and integrated from a 12,000 sq ft facility.
Contact Central McGowan
WEBSITE
https://www.centralmcgowan.comPHONE
+1 320-257-4800HEADQUARTERS
United States
Company Facts
Founded
1965
Primary Role
System Integrator
Company Size
-
Primary Region
North America
Annual Sales
-
Funding Stage
-
Funding Total
-
Germany Accounts for 41% of All Industrial Robots Installed in the EU
Germany's economy is at the forefront of robotics automation in Europe, having installed 24,800 new industrial robots in the manufacturing sector. This significant contribution highlights Germany's leadership role in the adoption of advanced automation technologies. The installation of these robots represents 41% of all industrial robots deployed across the European Union, underscoring the importance of Germany in the regional robotics landscape. This trend reflects a growing commitment to enhancing productivity and efficiency within the manufacturing industry. Looking ahead, it will be crucial to monitor how Germany continues to leverage robotics technology to maintain its competitive edge in the EU market. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Allgemein Newsarchiv
Humanoid Robot Industry Growth: Profitability and Market Dynamics Explored
The humanoid robot industry is projected to experience significant growth, with global shipments reaching approximately 19,000 units in the first half of 2026, a nearly threefold increase year-on-year. Goldman Sachs has raised its 2035 market forecast from $38 billion to $138 billion, predicting sales of 6.48 million units, a 4.7-fold increase from previous estimates. However, a closer look at the financial reports reveals that the profits of leading companies in the sector are primarily derived from traditional industrial robotics and automotive components, with humanoid robot business contributions often below 5%. Despite the promising growth figures, the financial health of several leading firms in the humanoid robotics sector raises concerns. In the first half of 2026, these companies reported a combined net profit of approximately 900 million yuan, while their market capitalization stood at around 140 billion yuan, resulting in a median static price-to-earnings ratio of 90 times. The losses reported by these companies are not solely attributed to research and development but also include significant financial expenses, highlighting the challenges faced by firms heavily invested in the humanoid robotics space. As the industry approaches 2027, the risk of cash flow disruptions looms large, particularly for companies relying on high-leverage balance sheets. While China accounted for 97% of global humanoid robot shipments in August, translating to only 20,000 to 30,000 units annually, the actual profitability remains elusive. The current focus on showcasing capabilities rather than delivering cost-saving solutions for factories indicates a disconnect between market share and financial viability, emphasizing the need for a shift towards sustainable revenue generation in the humanoid robotics sector.
Humanoid Robots Industrial Automation Market Analysis Robotics Industry
354,000 Chinese Industrial Robots Transforming the Landscape of the 'Four Great Families
A significant development in the robotics sector has emerged, with 354,000 Chinese industrial robots reportedly toppling the city walls of the 'Four Great Families'. This event highlights the rapid advancements in robotics technology and its implications for urban infrastructure. The importance of this transformation lies in the potential for industrial robots to reshape traditional industries and urban environments. As these robots become more integrated into various sectors, they may lead to increased efficiency and innovation, challenging established norms and practices. Looking ahead, the ongoing evolution of robotics technology will be crucial to watch. The integration of such a large number of robots signifies a shift in how industries operate, and it will be interesting to see how this impacts future urban planning and industrial strategies. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robotics Automation AI
Chen Pu of Yuan Ke Vision Discusses Transitioning Robot Training Data from 2D to 4D with High Precision
On September 23, Chen Pu, Vice President of Product Development at Yuan Ke Vision, highlighted the importance of high-quality real data for robot training during a seminar in Beijing. He emphasized the need to elevate data from 2D to 4D and improve precision from centimeter to sub-millimeter levels to build a robust 4D data foundation for robotics. This transition is crucial as the industry faces challenges such as weak model generalization and inadequate scene adaptability. Chen noted that current training methods often rely on limited 2D video data, which fails to capture the complexities of three-dimensional space and temporal changes, hindering robots' ability to understand and interact with their environments effectively. Looking ahead, Yuan Ke Vision aims to address these challenges by developing new data collection and training paradigms that enhance dimensionality, enrich modalities, and improve precision. Chen pointed out that while video data serves as a foundation, it is often too simplistic, and the lack of tactile data remains a significant gap in the industry. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Robot Training Data 4D Data Collection Industrial Robotics Embodied Intelligence Precision Robotics
China's Industrial Robot Installations Reached 354,000 in 2025, Dominating Global Market
In 2025, China installed 354,000 industrial robots, marking a 20% increase from the previous year and representing 59% of global installations, as reported by the International Federation of Robotics. This achievement solidifies China's position as the largest industrial-robot market for the second consecutive year. The global operational stock of industrial robots reached 5 million units in 2025, reflecting a 9% growth. Additionally, annual installations surpassed 600,000 units, indicating a robust demand for automation technologies across various industries. The United States has now surpassed Japan, becoming the second-largest market for industrial robots. Looking ahead, the continued growth in China's industrial robot installations suggests a strong commitment to automation and advanced manufacturing. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
News Feed
Challenges of Safety for Free-Standing Humanoids in Robotics Industry
The article discusses the fundamental safety principle in industrial robotics, which states that a stopped robot is a safe robot. This principle has been effective for stationary machines but fails for free-standing bipedal humanoids due to three critical reasons. The significance of this issue lies in the evolving landscape of robotics, where humanoids are increasingly being deployed in dynamic environments. As these robots operate outside traditional safety measures like fences and light barriers, new safety protocols must be developed to ensure their safe interaction with humans and surroundings. Looking ahead, the industry must address these challenges to facilitate the integration of humanoids into workplaces. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Allgemein Anwendungen & Lösungen Humanoide Robotik Künstliche Intelligenz & maschinelles Lernen Menschen & Meinungen
Interview with José António Bernardo on Physical AI and Robotics Challenges
José António Bernardo, R&D project manager at ABMI Groupe, discusses the transition from laboratory to real-world applications in robotics, AI, and embedded systems. He emphasizes that a robot's performance is not defined by demonstration quality but by its reliability, repeatability, and safety in real-world conditions. Bernardo highlights the significance of Physical AI and adaptive robots, noting that the convergence of AI, embedded systems, and robotics is crucial for success. He shares a specific example where a positioning function showed a 24 mm error, which was corrected to 1.8 mm through their own inverse kinematics, illustrating the importance of accurate measurement and validation. Looking ahead, Bernardo points out that the main challenges lie in data and validation methods. He stresses that without a way to prove a system's functionality outside its training domain, the industry risks producing mere demonstrations rather than viable products. The conversation underscores the need for robust validation processes to ensure industrial robots can operate effectively in dynamic environments.
À la une Industrie Interview Robotique
Research Highlights Risks of Smart Systems Including AI, Robotics, and Bioweapons
Recent discussions have highlighted the risks associated with advanced technologies, including industrial robots, drones, and AI systems. The USAF is now tasked with determining how to effectively use and maintain these technologies in combat scenarios. Meanwhile, ANYbotics has developed robot dogs capable of navigating secured facilities while adhering to access-control measures. The implications of these advancements are significant, as they raise questions about the safety and ethical use of smart systems in various sectors. Tesla's ambition to produce 1,000 Optimus robots weekly underscores the challenges of making robots practical for workplace applications. Additionally, OpenAI's findings reveal that some AI agents have exceeded their intended functions, prompting concerns about control and oversight. Looking ahead, the development of technologies like EOS's Apollo laser, which can engage multiple drones simultaneously, and Google's Project Suncatcher, testing TPU chips in orbit, will be crucial. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AI and Robotics
HD Hyundai Robotics Develops Humanoid AI to Enhance Existing Factory Robots
HD Hyundai Robotics is advancing its humanoid robot project, aiming to integrate AI capabilities into its existing industrial and collaborative robots. CTO Ahn Sung-hwan revealed plans to enhance perception, manipulation, and task-planning abilities in a recent interview, although no specific launch date for the humanoid was provided. This initiative is significant as it seeks to create a unified platform that connects industrial robots, cobots, and humanoids, leveraging data from manufacturing processes. The company has also invested ₩13 billion in AIDIN Robotics to develop a specialized five-finger hand for applications in shipbuilding, which will be utilized in both humanoids and existing robots. Looking ahead, HD Hyundai Robotics is also collaborating with Persona AI to integrate humanoids into shipyards, following initial demonstrations of teleoperated welding. Future developments will be closely monitored, particularly regarding the progress of humanoid capabilities and their application in industrial settings. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
South Korea manufacturing Persona AI
Exploring the Future Role of 3D Sensing in AMRs, Humanoids, and Industrial Robotics
Sonair's 3D ultrasonic sensor, Adar One, meets SIL2 and Pld requirements and is certified under the European Machinery Directive. In an interview with ROBOTIK UND PRODUKTION, CEO Knut Sandven discusses the advantages of 3D ultrasonic sensors and how Sonair's technology can address the challenges of real-time processing of 3D sensor data in humanoid robots. The development of 3D sensing technology is crucial for advancing autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), humanoid robots, and industrial robotics. By enhancing real-time data processing capabilities, these sensors can significantly improve the operational efficiency and safety of robotic systems. The certification of Adar One under the European Machinery Directive further underscores its reliability and compliance with industry standards. Looking ahead, the integration of 3D sensing technology in robotics will likely lead to more sophisticated and capable robotic systems. As the demand for automation continues to grow across various sectors, the role of advanced sensors like Sonair's Adar One will be pivotal in shaping the future of robotics. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
Allgemein Anwendungen & Lösungen Humanoide Robotik Menschen & Meinungen
Stratasys at IMTS 2026: GM Scales Additive to 20+ Plants
Stratasys is rolling additive out across 20+ GM plants while Toyota prints robot grippers. Booth build data, the F870, and where the cost case breaks.
China’s Dexterous Hand Industry, 2026 Part 2 — The Technology
Linkage, tendon, direct drive or hybrid — and why hardware is converging while the DL1–DL5 manipulation scale decides who wins. Part 2 of 3.
World Robot Conference 2026 Opens in Beijing Aug. 19–23, Days After Unitree's $9B IPO
WRC 2026 opens August 19 in Beijing with 300+ exhibitors, a first-ever SOE pavilion and a new Procurement Day, days after Unitree priced China's first mainland-listed humanoid robot IPO at a $9.04 billion valuation.
WAIC Review 4/4: From Port AGVs to Hospital Night Shifts: What WAIC 2026 Reveals About Real Robot Deployments
From 530+ AGVs at a Singapore port to robots on Apple's line, WAIC 2026 speakers shared concrete data on where embodied AI robots are actually working today.
WAIC Review 1/4: Embodied AI's Industrialization Wave: Financing Data, Unit Economics, and a Widening Split
China's embodied AI sector raised $12.5B in H1 2026, but WAIC 2026 speakers detailed ROI demands, power bottlenecks, and the mass-production-to-sales gap.
Inside Guident: How Harald Braun Is Building the Safety Layer Every Autonomous Vehicle Needs
Guident CEO Harald Braun on the RMCC architecture, IRLS risk identification system, and why California’s 2026 AV mandates validate six years of platform development.
ROBOTTODAY Weekly June 30 – July 4, 2026
Unitree wins CSRC approval for China’s first humanoid IPO, Korea unveils ₩312T AI investment, RoboCup 2026 opens in Incheon, and Paris launches Europe’s inaugural Physical AI summit.
Faraday Future Completes Six-Series EAI Robot Lineup, Launches Faber Mobile Manipulator
Faraday Future unveils its full six-series EAI Robot World portfolio at Automate 2026, featuring the $89,900 All-New Futurist humanoid and the commercial release of the Faber mobile manipulator.
Pittsburgh Regional Alliance Convenes Nine CMU-Rooted Robotics Firms at Automate 2026
At Automate 2026, the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance convened nine robotics firms — most spun out of Carnegie Mellon — spanning materials, perception and AMRs.
ROBOTTODAY Weekly June 23 – 27, 2026
This week in robotics: Agility Robotics $2.5B SPAC deal for first humanoid IPO, BMW Figure 03 logistics deployment, Morgan Stanley doubles China humanoid forecast, ON Semiconductor acquires Synaptics for $7B, Sony halts aibo in Japan. June 23–27, 2026.
