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News Highlights from CWM
CWM News Archive
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CWM Wins 2011 NADCA Die Cast Design Award
The design engineering teams from CWM and Cast Products collaborated on a new die cast product, a conversion from plastic to zinc. The results were an innovative product design and an award from the North American Die Casting Association for the design's ingenuity,
cost savings and overall quality.
The award was given in the "under 6 oz. non-electroplated" category and was presented at NADCA's 2011 Die Casting Congress held in Columbus, Ohio.
Converted from ABS plastic to zinc die casting, the product's durability and performance was greatly enhanced. The casting is used to hold a camera onto an interactive whiteboard. The camera picks up infrared light from the whiteboard and sends it to a computer. To accurately capture this, the camera had to be rigidly held in place. High product demand created an aggressive timeline to produce parts. The design teams met the challenge and samples were approved for production in just 5 weeks.
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Thixo-to-Hot Chamber Mg Die Cast Conversion
After hearing their Asian thixomold supplier say, "We don't want your business because your volumes are too low," a high-end producer of electronics with multiple applications for magnesium castings was forced to hunt for a second Asian source to continue manufacturing parts using the existing process.
They found a new thixomold supplier and shortly after moving production, a set of issues began to surface. Getting parts on time became problematic. Stretched lead times resulted in inventory shortages, and with parts coming from Asia they had the added stress of import issues compounding late deliveries. Production was expedited, but that resulted in high set-up fees. In an attempt to leverage the set-up fees, quantities for production runs were increased. However, this resulted in excess inventory, causing yet another set of problems.
For the story of overcoming challenges and misperceptions to a successful sourcing result, download the PDF here.
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New Report on OEM Sourcing's Return to U.S.
A seven-page White Paper has been released by the North American Die Casting Assn. (NADCA) on the resurgence of manufacturing sourcing to U.S. suppliers as reported in major consulting firm studies and by industry and business publications. The overview cites examples of “onshoring” that range from Fortune 500 companies to smaller manufacturers producing toys.
The review notes that North American custom die casters are participating in this trend, with nearly a quarter of NADCA members reporting new gains from die casting projects previously sourced offshore. Factors responsible for recent OEM decisions to return to U.S. suppliers, a trend that is expected to continue, are discussed in detail.
This latest NADCA report is an updating of the research study, “Hidden Costs of Offshore Sourcing,” which NADCA conducted in conjunction with the U.S. Dept. of Commerce in 2004. (A summary of the '04 study is available to DC2 Design Center registrants in the Center's "Buyer Resources" section.
The new White Paper is available here in PDF format for immediate download.
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21% Sales Increase in 2010, Sales Up Overseas
During CWM’s annual “Thank You” luncheon for all employees and suppliers, as well as company retirees and other guests, President Eric Treiber presented a summary of CWM’s accomplishments over the last year— including the remarkable 2010 sales increase of 21% over 2009.
Also noted were important companywide investments in training, strategic new hires, and new software and advanced new equipment such the state-of-the-art Pioneer Sheffield Coordinate Measuring Machine in CWM’s Quality Assurance Dept.
International Sales Growth
Over the last two decades, Eric pointed out, CWM’s international sales have continued to grow: at the end of 2010, CWM had shipped to 18 countries outside the U.S. By July 2011, these sales included 10 countries in the Europeon Union, five countries in Asia, as well as Israel in the Middle East and Canada and Mexico in North America.
The “CWM” trademark, along with its corporate name “Chicago White Metal Casting, Inc.,” has been registered under the Madrid Agreement and the Protocol within the European Community, as well as with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. The trademark of CWM is now acknowledged in 85 countries around the globe.
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CWM Discusses Impact of Proposed New Regulations on Job Growth During Plant Tour with Congressman Peter Roskam
House Majority Chief Deputy Whip Peter Roskam, a Wheaton IL Republican who represents the state's 6th Congressional District, toured suburban Chicago businesses recently— later highlighting their plights before members of the local media.
At Chicago White Metal Casting in Bensenville, President and CEO Eric Treiber told the congressman the 240-person company has an employee who dedicates more than half of his time to complying with government regulations.
Regarding proposed new federal regulations Treiber said, “It’s a challenge to remaining competitive and profitable. It means trouble for new jobs and we’re not going to be able to invest in new equipment, new training.”
At a breakfast with the Greater Elgin-O’Hare Association of area businesses, Roskam described the federal government’s interactions with the economy on three broad levels — through legislation, spending and regulation.
“The final area is on the regulatory side, where new regulations can be unnecessary job killers,” Roskam said.
“Everyone is looking for remedies, everyone is looking for solutions on how to create more growth. We’ve got to grow the economy, not just cut government. We can do this.”
(View Video of CWM plant visit by Congressman Roskam.)
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Sheffield Pioneer 8.10.6 CMM Unit to QA Dept.
CWM’s Quality Assurance Dept. recently installed a Sheffield Pioneer 8.10.6 CMM machine, paving the way to acquiring the latest in sophisticated inspection software technology— PC-DMIS Cad++.
This advanced software integrates directly with 3D CAD modeling, allowing for inspection programming prior to the availability of the die cast product sample. Lead time is greatly reduced in providing a first article inspection report.
Complex parts can be measured very quickly with extreme accuracy and operator error is virtually eliminated.
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USA Today: Manufacturing Returning to USA?
This special August 2010 report in USA Today states that General Electric is moving important production from China to a newly renovated factory in the USA, resulting in 400 jobs. The story highlights a growing band of U.S. manufacturers—including giants such as GE, NCR and Caterpillar—that are reversing the inexorable offshoring movement, bringing return of some new production to the U.S. from far-flung locations such as China.
Other OEMs that were buying components overseas are switching to U.S. suppliers. Ford Motor said August 4 that it was bringing nearly 2,000 jobs to its U.S. plants by 2012 from suppliers, including those in Japan, Mexico and India.
Many reasons for the shifts were reported, often called "onshoring" or "reshoring." Chinese wages and shipping costs have risen sharply in the past few years while U.S. salaries have stayed flat, or in some cases, fallen in the recession. Meanwhile, U.S. manufacturers have been frustrated by the sometimes poor quality of goods made by foreign contractors, theft of their intellectual property and long product-delivery cycles that make them less responsive to customer demand. Several cite the drawbacks of tying up valuable capital in huge overseas shipments, and want to bring assembly closer to engineers, suppliers and customers, concerns that mounted as makers slashed costs in the downturn. Others are simply weary of midnight phone calls—and multiple annual trips—to Asia.
For complete USA Today story, View & Download T39 .
Also see book review, "Poorly Made in China," below.
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Book Review: "Poorly Made in China"
Paul Midler, with a background in Chinese studies and history-- and hands-on experience working for years in China with Chinese supplier manufacturers-- has written a valuable new book, "Poorly Made in China," with insights into the current world of OEM offshoring there.
Any North American OEM considering offshore sourcing will want to be familiar with the information this interesting businessman-author documents.
For the review of the book, "Poorly Made in China," from Modern Casting magazine, View & Download T38.
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New Appointments Expand CWM Services
Five new members of the CWM family were announced by President
Eric Treiber:
Tom Oshgan, Senior Staff Engineer. Tom served as CWM R&D Engineering Mgr. from 1984 to 1987. He returns to help supervise our Project Engineering Team, develop new tooling sources and provide customers with technical support and design assistance. A degreed Mechanical Engineer, Tom has over 35 years of experience in design and program management with companies including Motorola Communications, ITW Automotive Controls, Fabrik Molded Products, and Eaton Automotive Controls.
Guadalupe Perez, Quality Planning Manager. As our new Quality Planning Manager, Guadalupe draws on decades of quality management experience, including 26 years with Admiral Tool & Manufacturing Co. in Chicago and three years at National Power Corp. He holds two bachelor’s degrees— one in business from Northeastern Illinois University and another in liberal arts from Loop College.
Max Gondek, Sustaining Engineer. In this newly created position, Max is responsible for managing existing tooling systems and helping the manufacturing team address any tooling performance issues. He also supports the production
staff in resolving cycle time and quality issues. A skilled designer, Max holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University.
Donald Simmons, Systems Technician. Focused on keeping our information technology systems running smoothly, Donald works in the MIS department and reports to Network Information System Manager Kalpesh Patel. Donald has a bachelor’s degree from DeVry University in computer information systems and is currently working towards his CompTIA A+ and Network+ technical certifications.
Elizabeth Besch, Support Staff. Elizabeth, who had been serving in a temporary position through Azimuth Staffing, has become an official member of the CWM team. She provides invaluable administrative support to all our departments and helps manage the reception desk.
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Eric Treiber Appointed CWM President & CEO
Eric Treiber was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Chicago White Metal Casting, Inc. (CWM), a 72-year-old Chicago manufacturing company specializing in the custom production of high-tech Al, Mg and Zn die cast components. The privately held company is widely acknowledged as an innovator and leader in the die casting industry.
Previously, Treiber served as President and Chief Operating Officer, during which time he targeted enhanced transparency with the CWM team, as well as revamping critical aspects of the company’s pricing strategy and fostering greater client collaboration and support. As CEO, Treiber plans to expand on these initiatives and will continue to work openly with industry members to support overall industry growth.
In assuming his new post, Treiber becomes the third generation of his family to lead the business, which was founded in 1937 by Treiber’s grandfather, Walter G. Treiber, Sr. The new CEO takes over from his father, Walter Treiber, who has served as the CEO and Chairman for the past 32 years. Walter Treiber will remain active in the company as Chairman of the Board.
Treiber’s own tenure with the company began in 1990 with a position in materials procurement. Over the years, he has been involved in numerous aspects of the business, including assembly and contract manufacturing, engineering services, client services, high-profile project management, and more.
“The appointment is quite humbling,” Treiber said. “It is an honor to lead such a loyal and hard working team. The position carries with it significant responsibility—not only for maintaining the health of the business, but also the well-being of our associates, suppliers and the many others who depend on us.”
Chicago White Metal has shown impressive resiliency in spite of challenging economic conditions. Treiber attributes the company’s success to its focus on cultivating a diverse client base in a wide array of industries, as well as its long-tenured and dedicated team.
“We are extremely positive about the company’s outlook,” Treiber said, “for 2010 and beyond.”
In addition to his responsibilities at Chicago White Metal Casting, Treiber is an active, longtime member of the North American Die Casting Association (NADCA). In 2010, he will become the Secretary/Treasurer of the organization’s Board of Governors and will continue as the chairman of one of its charitable concerns, the H. L. Harvill Education Foundation.
Operating out of a 136,000-square-foot facility in Bensenville, IL, Chicago White Metal Casting is a custom die caster that specializes in producing components in aluminum, magnesium and zinc. The company, which employs more than 130 people, also offers machining, finishing and assembly services.
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In-Die Degating 1st Wins Mg Process Tech Award
A new magnesium die cast support structure for an automatic-dimming
rear view automotive mirror is now being
produced in a high-pressure, hot-chamber
Mg die casting machine using “in-die de-gating,” two-stage
ejection technology, resulting in significant cost savings.
This new Mg production strategy is based on established
miniature zinc die casting production techniques. The successful application to larger high-pressure, hot-chamber Mg custom die casting equipment has significantly reduced post-casting operation costs
and brought CWM the 2009 "Award of Excellence" for Process Innovation from the International Magnesium Association.
In moving to a lightweight, yet strong, mag die
casting for a new model of their advanced electrochromic mirror's
structural component, Gentex company
engineers put forth a unique challenge for the die design and production of their new unit. They called for a new Mg tooling design that could achieve the post-casting cost-savings
of the high-speed miniature zinc die casting process in the
200-ton hot-chamber mag
die casting machine required for the part.
Chicago White Metal brought its deep
experience in hot-chamber magnesium
part design and production, as a North
American pioneer in the process, to bear on
the project. CWM was joined by another
Gentex supplier, Cast Products, with its
background in tooling design for miniature
zinc die cast parts.
The Mg die casting is now being produced without the use of a trim die-- no final trimming required. This new application story is being featured in recent issues of Design News and Machine Design magazines.
More details, and photos, on this advance in Mg die casting process technology, go to "Case Study No. 41."
For a detailed story on this breakthrough by Design News editor Doug Smock on his "Mechatronics Blog", click here.
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Eric Treiber Chairs NADCA Govt. Affairs
Eric Treiber, CEO and President of CWM, has been named Chairman of the North American Die Casting Association's Government Affairs Committee, it was announced by Dan Twarog, President of NADCA.
Fostering Alliances for the Industry
This Committee, on behalf of the entire die casting industry, is charged with aiding the fostering of strategic alliances with legislators in Washington and increasing the effectiveness of grassroots efforts of industry companies in helping achieve a positive legislative agenda. Its current program is focussed on the importance of retaining a strong, competitive manufacturing base in the U.S.
Eric brings to his chairmanship a background in helping develop industry-wide relationships with the U.S. EPA, which included participation in the agency’s Sustainable Industries Metalcasting Sector Program, plus the SF6 Emission Reduction Partnership for the Magnesium Industry.
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Industry Manuals Now Online at Specal Pricing
For some time CWM has offered a selection of important die casting design and specification reference manuals and CD-ROMs for purchase through its website. Now, for OEMs considering the die casting process, this valuable reference material will be available to OEMs in the U.S. and Canada by convenient, rapid online credit card ordering through the PayPal system.
The authoritative reference selections offered at special CWM OEM discounts include the latest editions of: The 178-page "Product Design for Die Casting" Manual, the 220-page "Product Specification Standards for Die Casting" Manual and the CD-ROM version of this Standards Manual, all published by the North American Die Casting Assn.
To access the Reference Manual section and online Order Form in the "OEM Die Cast Design Center" of the CWM website, click here: Reference Manuals/CDs.
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Newest CNC & FDM Units Expand Capabilities
Further CNC Dept. Expansion:
CWM's CNC Dept. expansion moved significantly forward with the installation two new CNC machining centers: The Kitamura Mycenter HX400iSII and the Leadwell MV-50i CNC Machining Center.
The Kitamura Mycenter HX400iSII center, known as the CNC horizontal machining workhorse, offers greater flexibility with both high- and low-volume projects. It is equipped with leading edge CNC technology for optimizing each processing step. Extreme accuracy and repeatability is provided by its solid box way construction, assuring highest quality parts with a faster turn-around.
Also recently acquired was the state-of-the-art Leadwell MV-50i CNC Machining Center, which will allow the company's growing CNC department to take on bigger projects, delivering on both higher volumes and larger parts. And since this system can manage complex jobs with multiple parts and complete them with a single setup, the MV-50i insures high efficiency.
New FDM Unit:
In addition to the CNC centers, CWM has also purchased a new FDM (Fused Deposition Molding) machine — the Dimension SST 1200 es. The unit is capable of creating rapid plastic prototypes that are 40 times stronger than those of the company's previous system.
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Guide to "Selecting the Optimum Die Caster"
This concise 10-point OEM checklist can be a helpful guide to making the optimum supplier decision for successful results in producing a new housing of component as a custom die casting.
It is designed to help assure that OEM engineers and purchasers raise the right questions regarding custom die casting supplier capabilities and receive unbiased recommendations.
This "Application/Tech Brief" is just one of the nine content sections of CWM's OEM Resource Center on thlis website, where a wealth of free die casting design guides & aids are available for viewing and download.
To download this new PDF Tech Brief (no. 36) on "Selecting the Best Custom Die Caster for Your Next Project," go directly to the OEM Design Center's Application/Tech Brief page.
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