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PCC Olofsson Launches Its New Revolution(TM) Line at Ford

6 November 2000

PCC Olofsson Launches Its New Revolution(TM) Line of Machining Systems at Ford Motor Company

    PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 6 PCC Olofsson, an operating unit of
Precision Castparts Corp. , is supplying the Ford Motor Company's
Livonia, Michigan, transmission plant with more than 20 new Revolution(TM)
machining systems, in multiple deals totaling more than $16 million.
    The Revolution modular machining system gives Ford the ability to
configure a given machine to specific parts and processes.  In fact,
PCC Olofsson has identified nearly 20 standard configurations to meet
customers' various requirements.  Ford will introduce the Revolution(TM) in
both vertical and horizontal spindle configurations to perform such operations
as drilling, turning, boring, reaming, grooving, and deburring.  The machines
will also feature integral, automatic load and unload systems.
    Delivery of the first machines is scheduled for this month, and the
current orders will be filled by the middle of next year.
    "The Revolution(TM) is truly living up to its name by presenting a
significantly different approach to machine design, part handling, and
retooling," said William C. McCormick, chairman and chief executive officer of
Precision Castparts Corp.  "It will provide Ford with the advantages of 'part
specific' custom machines, for which PCC Olofsson has been known for many,
many years, but without the long lead times, cost, and custom engineering
generally associated in implementing such machines.  Through multi-column
configurations, we've minimized part handling and, thereby, improved
efficiency.  The modularity of Revolution(TM) provides flexibility for future
process changes as a result of continuous improvement.  A major primary
benefit to Ford will be part quality exceeding current 1.67 Cpk part quality
requirements.
    "We have developed the Revolution(TM) machining system with low cost as a
paramount consideration, both the customer's initial cost and the cost of
operation," continued McCormick.  "With the first of the Revolution(TM)
machines for Ford currently being qualified at PCC Olofsson, we are now
proving our claims with excellent part quality results."