Dow Sole Brake Fluid Supplier To GM in N. A.- Ok

AUBURN HILLS and MIDLAND, Mich., Jan. 24 -- Dow Automotive and Dow Chemical's Michigan Operations teams have combined efforts to provide just-in-time delivery of brake fluid direct to General Motors (GM) for use at all of its assembly facilities in North America. Additionally, Dow also supplies the fluid to several of GM's validation and testing centers, and research and development facilities. Financial terms of the multi-year agreement were not disclosed.

The team worked closely to meet GM's requirements within just 10 weeks of the request to provide an effective solution and assure no interruption in supply during the transition from the previous distribution system.

``This was a true team effort by all parties involved,'' said Mike Powers, executive director for GM programs, Dow Automotive. ``This agreement provides a fine example of how Dow's internal resources collaborate to benefit and meet the challenges set forth by one of our largest customers.''

UCON® PM 6664 brake fluid is a superior, chemically balanced glycol ethers and lubricant based fluid. It meets DOT-3, SAE J1703, ISO 4925 and GM and other OEM requirements. The fluid is manufactured in Crosby, Tex., and shipped via rail to Midland, where it is packaged in 330-gallon recyclable intermediate bulk containers (IBC), labeled and prepared for delivery. In addition, each container can be tracked from filling to the end-use location. The Midland facility is QS-9000 certified, and provides improved packaging techniques over previous methods.

The solution the Dow team provided GM underscores Dow's commitment to safe handling practices, including addressing environmental and health and safety challenges. In addition, the new containers are translucent, helping to eliminate waste in the manufacturing facilities and also are easier and safer to transport and store within the assembly plants. When empty, the containers are picked up at the facility and recycled, alleviating costly return freight charges, cleaning costs, and environmental issues.

Fritz Hyde, senior production specialist, Dow Michigan Operations, agrees that the project is a success. ``This was a win-win situation for all parties,'' he said. ``We are pleased with the results from this integrated effort and we look forward to future business in this arena.''

Dow was at a geographic advantage with this project because the facility in Midland is centrally located to the majority of GM's facilities. Dow coordinates delivery through GM's logistic operations.

The Dow team continues to work with GM representatives to ensure a smooth transition of the delivery process and procedures and also provides technical service and development support to each of the facilities as needed.