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How many parts for race cars do you produce?
"We currently have over 300 active part numbers and it continues to grow. In 2003 OTC manufactured just over 15,000 pieces. By the end of August of last year, we have already surpassed the number of parts produced all of 2003 by almost 4,000 pieces."
How has Okuma helped RCR?
"In my opinion, they (Okuma) are the number one machine tool supplier in the world. The repeatability and accuracy of their machines keeps our parts produced consistent. Their application engineering support is available whenever we need it. Whether it's machine or manufacturing process related, they respond. The support goes both ways. We have developed a very strong partnership with Okuma. We assist their engineering staff in developing new machines for the industry. In turn, RCR and Okuma benefit from this development."
What can you tell me about Research and Development?
"R&D is one of the reasons we (OTC) are here. Again, the machines we have here allow us to control our destiny with research and development. If we have an R&D idea, we can have answers in a matter of hours by machining the parts onsite."
Where do you see parts manufacturing going in 10 years? Will we make more of our own parts?
"Manufacturing technology continues to evolve rapidly. We are using technologies to manufacture today that were not thought of ten years ago. This growth will continue. Everyone is being asked to reduce lead time. Machines will be asked to do more than just make parts. I envision machines being more intelligent with the advancements of computers.
We will continue to develop and manufacture parts here at RCR, which means we will continue to grow. OTC is out of room. With the growth we have experienced over the last three years, expanding our operation is a necessity. We must be ahead of our competition. To maintain that competitive edge, we must be in the forefront of new technology. Okuma has committed to keeping us there."
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