Parma Metal Center, GMUS – The new progressive press at the company’s Metal Center in Ohio will be able to handle both die tryout and regular parts production when fully operational; start-up is planned for late 2014 or early 2015.

GM says the new press will help the Parma facility to “enhance product quality and productivity” in support of customers across North America. Parma currently processes 1,000 tons of steel per production day for 40 clients including plants manufacturing the majority of GM vehicles in the region. The site supplied 67m parts last year.

Recent major investments at the 2.3m sq. ft centre include $20m to support the build of the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze at the Lordstown complex, also in Ohio; $25m for the installation of multi-flex assembly cells; and $20m for various press room upgrades. Parma now has 1,400 total dies and an annual capacity of 100m parts.

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