Annual Report 2010 - Knorr-Bremse AG.

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More room for machining operations was created, enabling the plant to operate with a high degree of
vertical integration and further localize production. Assembly lines were redesigned to cope with high
levels of demand for brake control systems, especially in the mainline segment. Throughput was further
optimized in terms of timing and routing, with alignment of assembly, inspection and packing processes.
And the service area was expanded to 1,400 m 2 in response to growing aftermarket demand. A
new laboratory measuring 350 m 2 was also created to house the so-called System Engineering and
Commissioning Center China.
Environmental aspects were also taken into account in the expansion program, with a rainwater tank
installed for irrigation of the surrounding gardens and solar panels mounted on the roof for hot water
supply. A modern canteen, new locker rooms and showers were also built to take care of the 1,000-strong
workforce.
Rapid growth in Wuxi
The Merak-Jinxin joint venture in Wuxi, which produces air conditioning systems, was also further expanded
in 2010. Since it was first set up in June 2008, the company has grown its workforce from 10
to 300. During the year under review, high order volumes from the region drove up production to
more than 2,000 on-board HVAC units. To meet such demand, the workshops were expanded, increasing
potential annual output to 2,400 units.