Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of an aerospace contract manufacturer

Intrex Aerospace has been providing precision CNC machined components for over 40 years. Over that length of time, we have fielded questions and requests that cover a broad scope of what we can provide and what we cannot. We thought it would be helpful to provide our existing and potential new customers our responses to our: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of an aerospace contract manufacturer (we welcome all questions). We have compiled such a list (read below) and hopefully you find it helpful as you navigate our site.

What are the aerospace contract manufacturer services provided?

The core of our provided services focuses on CNC machining. In our 75,000 sq. ft. facility we have multiple CNC machines. Many have 5 axis (simultaneous) capabilities, different levels of automation, multiple pieces of support equipment and a powerful ERP/MRP software system, all integrated to provide end-to-end manufacturing support. Our machine and support services are designed to:

• Source and manage raw material procurement (prep the material, if necessary prior to machining)
• Develop CNC machine programs and manufacturing processes prior to machining
• Machine and deburr components to customer specifications
• Arrange and manage any special processing
• Measure and record specified and critical features
• Supply supporting documentation (measurements, material certs, etc)

Make available “light” assembly and kitting when necessary

• Provide packaging and arrange shipping

What primary industries does Intrex support?
The primary markets served are aerospace/space/defense. This includes commercial aviation, defense aviation, unmanned aerial systems, and spaceflight hardware. We have supplied precision components and assemblies outside these markets sectors, and we would welcome new opportunities, if they fit our core competency and provide a cost-effective solution to the customer.

What certifications does Intrex have?
We maintain several certifications common to aerospace applications. We are ISO 9001 and AS 9100 certified. The AS 9100 is an aerospace standard based on the aerospace quality group (IAQG). It is based on ISO 9001, the internationally recognized standard for Quality Management System. Both these certifications are regularly audited. We are also ITAR registered. ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) is Department of State regulations that control the export of defense and military technologies.

Can you effeciently provide different volumes of orders?
Intrex provides machined components all along the volume spectrum. Higher volumes in most manufacturing are usually preferred. It’s easier to amortize unit cost utilizing higher volumes versus lower volumes, but that is not necessarily the nature of the aerospace contract manufacturing business. The volumes flowing through our shop varies greatly. Because of the “relative” high cost per part of many of the components and constant Rev. changes, much contract aerospace business is low-to-medium volume. Building to large inventories is not a viable option. Our solution to this reality, is to be able to produce parts that meet our customers pricing and deliveries requirements by hiring, training, and maintaining highly skilled setup and machining personnel. In addition, we have invested in state-of-the-art equipment, that greatly reduces setup times and optimize machining conditions. Our operator and machine initiatives enable us to efficiently produce parts within a vast range of production lot volumes.

What raw materials can Intrex machine?
The different raw material we machine varies greatly. The largest percentage is aluminum (2000-7000 series). We also machine CR steel, stainless steel series (300, 400,15-5) and many different alloys (titanium, inconel, monel, etc.). We also have experience with TZM, different plastics and composites. Our experience with these varied materials aligned with our tooling experience is one of our company core competencies.

What level of quality assurance does Intrex provide?

Quality assurance drives our production. Our Quality Management System (QMS) is integrated into every step of our procurement and production process. Intrex is ISO   9001 and AS9100 certified. Our quality assurance program provides the high level of measuring, monitoring, and documentation, all requirements for producing precision aerospace, space, and defense machined parts. We maintain several internal auditors that audit monthly for AS 9100 compliance. We maintain a keen focus on our quality metrics. Our current OTD’s are on the upper end of aerospace standards. Our Epicor ERP/MRP system monitors and records raw material lot traceability.  Intrex is also ITAR registered. We produce many high precision components for DOD applications.

Are you experienced with different levels of supply-chain management?
One of the strengths of Intrex as a contract CNC manufacturer is supply chain management. We manage the manufacturing process from raw material sourcing to documentation and shipment.  By providing a complete customer solution, we simplify and streamline our customer’s supply chain. Our proactive approach is to match and align all our capabilities with our customer’s needs. Our powerful Epicor ERP/MRP system can be totally integrated with our customer’s forecast portal to monitor and adjust our production to match customer’s anticipated needs. There is also flexibility in our system, to handle unanticipated drop in orders. This flexibility and utilization of our system software allow us to maintain critical metrics (OTD’s/PPM’s) well above industry standards.

We Would Like to Hear from You

At Intrex we have adopted and utilize the practices mentioned above. If you would like to have a conversation with us, we would welcome the opportunity. Please click here for contact information