Challenge: To identically manufacture in four factories on three continents a fully interchangeable Powder Forged (PF) connecting rod being used in several different engines.

Solution: The successful use of Metaldyne's PF connecting rods quickly led a major U.S. automotive OEM to request additional parts for an engine assembly plant located in Japan. But there was a hitch - to support its just-in-time manufacturing strategy, the OEM wanted the parts to be manufactured next to the engine assembly plant, not shipped from another off-site location.

To meet this challenge quickly and efficiently, Metaldyne took a bold step and decided to license its proprietary technology. For the next few years, Metaldyne experts worked closely with their new Japanese counterparts to answer questions, share ideas, and problem solve production issues.

Result: Metaldyne PF connecting rods manufactured in Japan are identical to and completely interchangeable with those being made in factories in the U.S., Spain and Mexico. Using identical production methods, workers from different factories can be easily relocated when the need arises.



Challenge: To convince a skeptical automotive OEM of the value of using Metaldyne Powder Forged (PF) connecting rods.

Solution: After reviewing Metaldyne's own PF connecting rod machining test results, a major German automotive OEM expressed concern that the same results may not be realized in its factory using its workers on its machining lines. Convinced of the value of its product, Metaldyne helped the OEM to conduct its own testing to verify the productivity and machinability benefits of using PF rods.

Result: The automotive OEM concluded after extensive testing that Metaldyne PF connecting rods offer all of the benefits and value as advertised. As a result of Metaldyne's investment, an environment of trust was established that has since grown into a strategic business partnership.