Klinger IGI is always looking for new ways to innovate , and much of that is done in the actual supplier / client relationship . For them , it is a combination of the way they work and partner with the customer as well as introducing new automation in the factory that decreases tolerances and increases speed of production . To help support their relationship with their customers plus keep those customers abreast of new techniques in fabrication , Klinger IGI recently created an Applications Engineering team . This team acts as a bridge between the customers ’ product engineers and the sales team at Klinger IGI to mutually improve understanding of the customer requirements , material capabilities , alternative fabrication options , and application challenges that may have not been anticipated in the customer ’ s design process . This ultimately helps to make sure that the intent of the design is achieved yet optimized for manufacturing .
With the ongoing addition of new manufacturing tools and technologies , Klinger IGI maintains some of the most comprehensive capabilities in their peer group . New laser cutting systems can cut a range of materials previously only capable on waterjet . Advanced water jets operating at tighter tolerances have improved cutting accuracy , as well as the speed , of the parts produced . This is important for aerospace production demands and , as the commercial aviation industry rebounds , this positions Klinger IGI to support rate increases and multiple streams of work . These expanding tools and technologies also support the other industries that Klinger IGI serves outside of aerospace , allowing them to meet demand as needed . In future years , automation will be an area they continue to improve to keep up with demand and remain on the cutting edge .
According to Pat , Klinger IGI ’ s performance has been consistently higher than their peers in the aviation parts manufacturing industry as indicated in ITR reports . This is attributed to two areas that Klinger IGI has focused on . First , they have a diversified customer base outside of commercial aviation . This diversification has reduced their risk in any one sector , allowing for them to maintain production methods and quality . The second is that they are a debt-free business . This allows them to invest in new equipment and process improvements during a period of unusual economic disruption . Moreover , Klinger IGI is affiliated with a larger group of companies through the Klinger brand . This allows them to refer their customer base to resource partners for adjacent needs , expanding them beyond just a build-to-print shop .
They also serve other industries such as medical , scientific instrument , power generation , nuclear power , petrochemical factory equipment automation , heavy machinery , pumps , both OE and aftermarket automotive products and other custom industrial applications . Although outside of aerospace , Klinger IGI applies the knowledge and experience gained through these other industries , to their aerospace applications .
58 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS