A 'Celling' Proposition

摘要

To be truly competitive--beyond simply cutting prices--a shop has to offer something its competitors don't. To provide quick turnover of relatively small runs of parts, Classic Turning Inc. employs cellular manufacturing methods and frequently modifies the configurations of its cells in response to customer needs. The strategy has enabled the shop to grow and prosper. Founded in 1986 in a 300-sq.-ft. building with half a dozen employees, Jackson, Mich.-based Classic Turning's name reflects its original focus on lathe work for aerospace, medical and automotive customers. Today, Classic turns and otherwise machines a variety of hydraulic-hose end fittings and fuel-handling couplings, as well as a range of other parts such as racing shock absorber components. In addition, the shop has expanded its milling capabilities and makes retrofit airframe components, various robot end effectors and other milled products. Typical workpiece materials are stainless steels, titanium and aluminum. Currently, the business occupies a 30,000-sq.-ft. facility, working two shifts a day and has 70 employees.