Redruth-based DP Engineering (www.dpengineeringltd.co.uk), established in 1952 to provide high-quality machined components, began to expand significantly back in 2003 and soon realised that its existing production control procedures were inadequate.

After assessing various options, the company decided that the robust software offered by PSL Datatrack (www.psldatatrack.com) would best meet its evolving needs, and managing director Richard Trevail says that it continues to be “the heartbeat of the business”.

PSL Datatrack’s modular approach has enabled DP to focus its efforts effectively, only purchasing additional modules when a business need arises. “This is obviously a cost-effective approach for smaller businesses, as the software is scalable. PSL’s business with us has grown along with our own business growth.”

DP is committed to accommodating the most stringent customer brief in terms of quality, lead time and complexity — all at a competitive price. The company’s customers include ‘blue chip’ firms from many industry sectors, with aerospace and oil and gas making up the biggest proportion. The company has AS9100/ISO:9001 Quality Management accreditation, plus the Aerospace and Defence SC21 Bronze Award. Its facilities include off-line programming and simulation with Mastercam, Delcam and Vericut software.

Batch volumes vary from five to 500,000 pieces, and much of its output consists of safety-critical parts for which traceability and ‘visibility’ of the production process are absolutely vital. The company holds around 300 different components ‘on file’, with call-off requirements, scheduling, shopfloor monitoring and analysis controlled by PSL Datatrack.