Pattonair's zero lead-time Agile Vending solution deployed for UMW Aerospace

Leading global aerospace and defence supply chain provider, Pattonair, has successfully deployed its Zero-Lead-Time Agile Vending solution for UMW Aerospace at the Malaysian aerospace engine component manufacturer's site at Serendah, Selangor, which produces fan cases for the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engine.

Agile Vending is an innovative Zero-Lead Time product developed by Pattonair, building on its expertise in supplying C class parts, to optimise efficiency and reduce operational disruption and downtime.

Pattonair has a strategic relationship with UMW Aerospace under a five-year agreement signed in 2016 for supply chain services. The introduction of Agile Vending is part of a key service development focussing on innovation and technology for site-based inventory.

Agile Vending can be customised to each user's requirement with optional levels of automation. The UMW system is connected via an Intelligent Inventory Management System to provide real time inventory allocation and replenishment.

Dato Abdul Rashid Musa, President, UMW M&E Division, said "We are extremely happy that such an innovative technology has been introduced in UMW Aerospace. With Agile Vending the assembly line will be able to draw material much faster and accurately enabling the build line to move smoothly. It also provides clear traceability to control the usage of each part number. With the vending machine linked to the supplier's portal, the replenishment of the parts will happen before any stock run out. We look forward to long working relationship with Pattonair".

Jim Smith, Commercial Director, Pattonair, said, "We are pleased that UMW has become a new customer for Agile Vending which is proving itself in delivering Zero-Lead Time efficiencies for OEM and MRO customers".

With a 25 + 5 year agreement with Rolls-Royce Plc, UMW Aerospace has become the first Malaysian company to be a Tier 1 aerospace engine component manufacturer.