Norm Peterson, everyone’s favorite patron on the TV show “Cheers,” once said, “It’s a dog-eat-dog world, Sammy, and I’m wearing Milk Bone underwear.” It’s a dog-eat-dog world for auto suppliers, too, and DENSO wants to stay ahead of the pack. One way is by developing products better and faster than competitors.

At DENSO Manufacturing Michigan (DMMI), Battle Creek, Mich., the aluminum heat exchanger is one of those products. But producing aluminum heat exchangers comes with challenges, as well. Due to thinner gauges, aluminum tends to be more difficult to repair, and the material is more difficult to control. To combat this, DMMI is always searching for innovative ways to improve manufacturing processes and reduce scrap.

Developing a product and optimal processes takes time and can often be frustrating. DMMI was prepared to face a difficult target in introducing the aluminum radiator. Why take that challenge? Because our customers want the technology and competitors are also working fast and furious to bring it to them. Because of these efforts, DMMI is ahead of other suppliers, and making the smallest, best-performing aluminum heat exchangers at the best price.

DMMI is looking to improve, not just because our competitors are nipping at our heels. Next generation technology has the potential to reduce costs by a significant amount, which is crucial to DENSO’s profitability.

Brian Taylor, manager of Business Planning, points out, “Vehicle manufacturers are competing for car buyers’ attention by providing more efficient cars with more functions, without increasing the price. Likewise, DENSO is competing with other suppliers to maintain and add to our business with vehicle manufacturers. Providing a more efficient product at a lower cost is crucial for us, and development of this technology gives us a springboard for the next level of improvement.”

It may be a dog-eat-dog world out there, but DMMI is ready to bite.

—Sarah Frink

"As we continue to push the edge of product and process design, there will be many challenges. As we all work together to overcome these issues and satisfy our customers, we will secure and enhance our position as the leading manufacturer of heat exchange auto components. This will assure a positive future for DMMI and for DMMI associates. This cycle of new product introduction and its inherent challenges is our lifeblood for the future.”

Dave Everhart
Senior Vice President of Operations, Production Control and Plant Engineering, DENSO Manufacturing Michigan