In China, it is common for many producers to use malleable iron to produce pipe fittings. However, they seldom use this material to produce automobile parts, usually made of ductile iron. In addition, in this case, the grade of materials was higher than that of standard pipe fittings. Hence, it was highly difficult to manufacture. Before application to the automotive industry, a supplier's capacity, technical capability, and project management ability should be adequately evaluated. Hence, after sourcing, we found a company very familiar with the material (without experience producing automobile parts) and willing to make automobile parts. With a good intention of cooperation, they undertook and carried out the project.

The casting problem could thus be solved successfully. However, it was still tough to manage and improve the producer. Since producer’s experience in making automotive parts still needs improvement making automobile parts, he had little knowledge of the system, management requirements, project operation, production control, and other automobile industry aspects.