Driving Efficiency: How an Automotive Manufacturer Expanded CNC Capacity with DES
In today’s competitive automotive industry, manufacturers are under constant pressure to boost output without sacrificing quality or safety. When an automotive manufacturer faced rising production demands, they turned once again to Diversified Equipment and Supply (DES) — their trusted CNC partner since 2009.
This project marked the installation of their third CNC, a Stratos Pro with automated offloading, combining cutting-edge automation, safety, and dust collection in one integrated system.
A Longstanding Partnership Built on Performance
DES has supported this manufacturer’s growth for nearly two decades — even before they owned their first CNC.
Timeline of Collaboration:
- 2009: First Long Travel Stratos Pro installed
- 2016: Second Long Travel Stratos Pro added for increased throughput
- 2025: Third Stratos Pro featuring
automated offloading and a
multi-drill unit
Each phase helped the manufacturer expand capacity, meet production goals, and maintain consistent part quality for automotive applications.
“This customer knows that when they work with DES, they get exceptional service and exceptional equipment. In short, we do what we say we are going to do.”
- Jim Paden, DES
Safety-First Design for a Tight Production Space
The newest Stratos Pro was installed in a compact area adjacent to an employee walkway, requiring precise safety engineering. DES implemented:
- A
7-foot perimeter fence to separate the machine from foot traffic
- A
Keyence safety scanner that automatically stops the machine when motion is detected
- Programmed safety zones that maintain protection without interrupting production
These safeguards ensure compliance and protect operators while maintaining the pace of a high-output environment.
Complete Coima Dust Collection System with Nordfab Ducting
Because this machine was installed at a second location, DES delivered a dedicated Coima Dust Collection system with Nordfab ducting, designed for efficient chip and dust management.
System Highlights:
- Industrial-grade filtration from
Coima ensures clean air and consistent suction
- Nordfab quick-connect ducting simplifies future layout changes
- Dedicated system keeps the environment cleaner, extending tool life and boosting performance
This combination of power and flexibility gives the manufacturer the ability to adapt as production expands — a key factor in long-term ROI.
Why They Continue to Choose DES
The decision to add a third Stratos Pro wasn’t just about adding capacity — it was about investing in a partnership built on trust and reliability.
Since 2009, DES has provided turnkey support including:
- System installation and training
- Service and preventive maintenance
- Safety integration and compliance support
- Custom dust collection design
When manufacturers need dependable results, they turn to a partner that delivers what’s promised — every time.
Looking Ahead: Total Automation in 2026
DES and this customer are already collaborating on their next step:
- Replacing the dust collection system in their main facility
- Exploring
full automation, where no human touches a part until it reaches assembly
Facing labor shortages in CNC routing, automation will allow this manufacturer to stabilize output and improve retention by reallocating staff to higher-value roles.
At DES, We Build More Than Machines — We Build Momentum
From precision routers to complete dust collection and safety systems, Diversified Equipment and Supply helps manufacturers expand safely, sustainably, and profitably.
Every installation tells a story of growth — and this one’s just getting started.
FAQs: CNC Expansion and Safety in Automotive Manufacturing
Q1: Why is automation becoming essential in CNC operations?
Automation increases consistency, reduces labor dependency, and helps facilities meet production goals more efficiently.
Q2: How does DES address safety in constrained spaces?
We evaluate every site and implement tailored solutions such as fencing, sensors, and programmable zones to balance safety and productivity.
Q3: What are the benefits of a Coima Dust Collection system with Nordfab ducting?
Together, they deliver reliable air filtration and modular flexibility — essential for evolving production lines.
Q4: What makes the Long Travel Stratos Pro ideal for automotive manufacturing?
Its durability, accuracy, and automated options make it perfect for dashboards, panels, and high-volume routing applications.
Q5: Does DES handle turnkey installations?
Yes — we manage everything from machine selection and dust collection to training, safety compliance, and ongoing service.
Ready to expand your manufacturing capacity with confidence?
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Contact Diversified Equipment and Supply to explore scalable CNC and automation solutions.
