Poitras
Poitras specializes in producing drivetrain castings and components, using advanced metallurgical techniques to engineer grey and ductile iron. Located in L’Islet, Quebec, the company employs over 190 workers and serves various markets including light vehicles and agricultural applications.
Company Overview
Poitras is a manufacturing company that produces drivetrain castings and components. The company specializes in the production of grey and ductile iron using complex metallurgical techniques to engineer iron castings with precise microstructure. Located on 14.8 acres within the city of L’Islet, Quebec, the facility spans 70,000 square feet with ceiling heights ranging from 17 to 20 feet. Over 150 plant workers, supported by an additional production and office team of 40 employees, contribute to its operations.
Manufacturing Capabilities
Poitras employs lean manufacturing principles in its plant design, operations, and management practices. The company has a metal capacity of 25,000 tons and utilizes 2 DISAMATIC D1 machines and 1 DISAMATIC 131-A (D3) machine for production. High-pressure green sand molding machines, custom-designed, built, and maintained in-house, support their operations. The coldbox type of core-making process is performed using 2 Laempe LL10 coldbox machines. Poitras melts iron using four electric induction furnaces, including 2 ABB coreless induction furnaces of 9 tons each and 2 ABB coreless induction furnaces of 3 tons each.
Metallurgical and Quality Assurance
Poitras is equipped with a fully functional metallurgical lab that performs chemical analysis, mechanical testing, and microstructure analysis. The chemical lab employs a spectrometer to verify multiple elements in iron, while dimensional analysis is conducted through a Faro arm and Polyworks software for laser-scanning. Automated finishing processes, robotic equipment, and vision-assisted inspection ensure that castings are clean and finished to high standards. Poitras holds several certifications, including IATF 16949:2016, C-TPAT, PEP - PIP, Ductile Iron Society, and American Foundry Society.
Technological Advancements
Since 2000, Poitras has invested over $20M in technological advancements. The company uses Solid Edge for 3D design and SolidCast® 3-D Solidification software for simulating fluid flow and casting solidification. The first robotic grinding cell was installed in 2015, further enhancing production efficiency. Advanced thermal arrest systems help establish the properties of iron during the cooling process, ensuring superior quality and consistency in their castings.
Company History
Poitras has a storied history that dates back to 1920, initially dedicated to railroad repair before shifting focus to produce wood machinery. The company relocated to its present-day site in L’Islet, Quebec, in 1973. It obtained ISO 9002 certification in 1996 as a part of its commitment to quality. In 2005, Poitras received ISO/TS16949 certification. Over the years, Poitras has continually adapted and modernized, securing its status as a leader in producing drivetrain castings and components.