Making Multi-Spindle Design, Performance as Smooth as Possible

ZPS America and Mitchel & Scott: Driving High-Volume Precision Machining for Automotive OEMs

ZPS America, based in Indianapolis, specializes in building high-production volume, multi-spindle machine tools for a wide range of end-product applications. In recent years, its primary focus has shifted to precision machining technology for automotive OEMs. One of its longest-standing partners in this endeavor is local high-volume manufacturer Mitchel & Scott Machine Co.

A Multi-Skilled Precision Partner

Mitchel & Scott is a versatile precision parts producer serving the HVAC, agricultural, defense, and hydraulic systems sectors — with a strong emphasis on heavy-duty diesel and automotive OEM markets.

Their ISO/TS16949-certified facility in Indianapolis spans over 150,000 sq. ft. and features a wide range of machining capabilities, along with in-house heat treating, chemical and vibratory finishing, assembly, and kitting services. The company also operates a full metallurgical lab on-site to support quality assurance and material analysis.

In addition to its Indianapolis operations, Mitchel & Scott runs a dedicated plant in McMinnville, Tennessee, focused on HVAC customers. The company also offers vendor-managed inventory services and maintains dedicated equipment for key customer programs.

According to Pat Mitchel, Director of Engineering & Quality:
“This seemed risky at the outset, but our customers appreciate the value of these services and the fact that we can be very pro-active in our management of their ongoing production needs.”

A Legacy of Precision Evolving with the Market

Founded in 1933 by Pat Mitchel’s grandfather, Mitchel & Scott has long been known for producing high-volume components for the heavy-duty diesel, HVAC, and hardware sectors. However, the growing influence of the automotive sector has significantly reshaped the company’s trajectory.

“We’ve had a concentrated effort in automotive for many years now and the word must be getting around,” Pat said. “We currently ship product to Europe and India, plus over 10,000 parts per week to China for our customers.”

ZPS Partnership and Automotive Expansion

The 2012 introduction of the first ZPS multi-spindle machine marked a turning point, enabling Mitchel & Scott to ramp up its output for the automotive sector. For one major European automaker, the Indianapolis facility now supplies a full range of precision components.

Today, the company routinely handles automotive production runs between 500,000 to 800,000 units per year. Its component capabilities include:

Hydraulic check valves

Camshaft nose and end-pieces

Cam phasers

Fuel injector housings

Direct-injection fuel rail assemblies

All of these are produced with inline testing and 100% inspection protocols, ensuring top-tier quality and performance for automotive clients around the globe.