Manufacturing pistons encompasses three distinct process loops. The first process loop is a self contained “rough machine” cell that utilizes (5) 4 axis CNC lathes and (2) counter rotating gundrill machines to finish machine pistons up to 40” in length. The pistons then move on to the “outside process” loop for special processes such as, shot peen, magnetic particle inspection, passivate and chrome plate. When the pistons return from the outside suppliers, they are delivered immediately to the Grind department for finish grind, hone and any final milling before being deburred and sent to inspection.
