Production Screw Machine, a Division of GMD Industries LLC.: Utilizing a "Phased Approach" to Streamline Manufacturing Processes

Leveraging more than 100 years of skilled craftsmanship, world-class production equipment, and the latest quality certifications, Production Screw Machine (PSMCo), a division of GMD Industries LLC, is strategically positioned to address the demanding quality and delivery standards expected from today’s aerospace component suppliers. How? Michael E. McQuinn, the Business Development Manager of PSMCo answers, “we leverage a unique phased manufacturing approach along with innovation to create value for our customers.”

PSMCo’s unique phased approach focuses on each phase of the manufacturing process, including design and development, prototyping, low-volume production, and in some cases, it can extend into high volume manufacturing. This focus leads to cost savings not only in the early stages of development but also through manufacturing efficiencies downstream. McQuinn informs, “While the CNC manufacturing space has become crowded over the past several years, advancements in CAD/CAM software, solid modeling, and more robust tooling have allowed PSMCo to leverage its flexibility and thirst for innovative technologies along with a phased manufacturing approach to gain competitive advantages.”

One case study in particular, PSMCo utilized its phased manufacturing approach to develop aircraft engine components from the prototype to the mid-range production phase in less than nine months. This was a critical component to the engine (blade retainer), which includes six outside operations. Focusing on each specific phase of the process, PSMCo beat expected lead-times, improved quality, and greatly reduced the costs throughout the life cycle of the project.

Further, PSMCo invests in the latest CAD/CAM software to accelerate the programming and development phases and partners with advanced manufacturing consortiums, which focus on developing innovative manufacturing processes. Such strategies play a significant role in providing PSMCo access to resources not typically found in its competitors. No wonder PSMCo is an approved supplier to Lockheed Martin, GE aviation, L3-Harris, and many other prestigious companies.

Apart from its unique phased manufacturing approach and efforts to drive innovation, what sets PSMCo a notch above the rest is its focus on employees. “We always take an Employee First approach along with innovative technologies to create unique differentiators,” says McQuinn. “Our focus is on developing our greatest assets—our team members. They will ultimately allow PSMCo to maintain a market leading position in the CNC machining space and we have proven the success of this strategy through the growth we have experienced over the past several years.”

McQuinn goes on to mention that PSMCo plans to expand its CNC milling and lathe turning capabilities to include larger and more complex parts. As aerospace materials continue to push the envelope of manufacturability, the company is continuously investing in advanced research and processes to strengthen its core competencies. PSMCo further strives to enhance its capabilities in 5 Axis machining and SWISS turning for small/ complex part manufacturing. As a result, PSMco will be able to improve turnaround times and more seamlessly address diverse client demands.

Indeed, with a focus on producing value-added services for its clients, PSMCo has achieved steady growth over the past several years and intends to continue this pattern for many more years.