Sanyo Metal Industries: steering monozukuri in the right direction

Established in 1951, Sanyo Metal Industries contributes to the automobile and machine industries as a specialist manufacturer of high-quality, highly accurate cold-drawn finished steel bars.

Compared to conventional methods for processing steel bars, the cold drawing method is significantly more efficient and ensures less waste, thus increasing product yield while reducing costs and energy used. As outlined by Sanyo president Ichiro Kawata: “The cold drawing method contributes to attaining lighter materials in the automotive field because it enhances the strength of the material. If we can strengthen the materials, we can make the parts smaller.”

With the automotive industry transitioning to lightweight materials such as aluminum and carbon, Sanyo Metal is playing its part, supplying lighter steel parts to its clients, including JTEKT, a world leader in steering manufacturing.

“The three basic vehicle functions are driving, turning, and stopping. Our product parts contribute to the turning function of the steering,” adds Mr. Kawata, who ensures that Sanyo Metal’s products will have important applications in autonomous and electric vehicles (EVs). “We supply the rack bar needed for the steering system. Even when cars transition to autonomous vehicles and EVs , the demand for our products will not be affected.”

As demands and requirements continue to evolve in the automotive and machine industries due to environmental concerns, Sanyo Metal remains committed to steering monozukuri in the right direction by constantly evolving its products and manufacturing methods.