Dynamic Manufacturing India magazine spoke to Dayanand Netalkar, Managing Partner, Srinivas Induction Hardening, to find out more about the company’s operations and insights.
Can you tell us more about the journey of Srinivas Induction Hardening?
We take immense pride in being the largest manufacturer and supplier of crankshafts to the world’s leading tractor manufacturing company, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited. Following this, we also have an expanding association with John Deere and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in the same sector. Our enduring relationships with customers spanning over 50 years are a testimony of our commitment and reliability.
Our journey began humble in 1965 and over the years we have steadily built up state of the art machining and grinding facilities to ensure the highest standards of quality. Our facilities are equipped to produce ready to assemble crankshafts that meet the highest standards of excellence.
Srinivas Induction Hardening boasts state-of-the-art facilities to carry out 100% machining, grinding and finishing in-house to produce finished crankshafts. How does the company ensure quality and customer satisfaction through these capabilities?
In the field of precision machining, our operation relies on a perfect blend of skilled labor, state-of-the-art machinery, and precise meteorological instruments. The combination of these elements forms the basis of our product acceptance standards, making our sector a unique blend of capital and labor intensive.
At SIH, we focus on machining and grinding crankshafts, covering all the operations required to meet demanding specifications, which require a range of machines and skills to ensure process capability.
Recognizing the vital role of the crankshaft in the internal combustion engine, our unwavering commitment to excellence has led us to focus on mastering the art of crankshaft manufacturing for 50 years. This consistent focus has enabled us to offer a broad portfolio of single-cylinder to six-cylinder crankshafts, customized for specific engine classes.
Currently, our factory facilities produce 53 different crankshaft models, proving our ability to handle complex problems. We primarily serve the agricultural sector, which accounts for 80% of our business, but also serve generator, automotive and compressor applications. We work exclusively as an OEM supplier, delivering complete components for seamless integration.
Quality is paramount in our operations and reflects our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and product excellence. We understand that the reliability and performance of our crankshafts directly impacts the efficiency and lifespan of the engines they power. To ensure the highest standards, we implement rigorous quality control measures at every stage of our manufacturing process. From the selection of raw materials to final inspection, each step is meticulously monitored to ensure compliance with precise specifications. Our highly skilled employees undergo continuous training to operate advanced machinery and maintain precision in complex operations. Additionally, we utilize state-of-the-art measurement equipment to verify and certify the accuracy of our products. This comprehensive approach to quality assurance not only prevents defects but also instills confidence in our customers and strengthens our reputation as a trusted supplier in the industry.
What are the key strengths of Srinivas Hardening Group that have enabled it to excel in the crankshaft manufacturing industry?
Srinivas Induction Hardening has further strengthened its capabilities through its focus on innovation and investment in state-of-the-art equipment, positioning itself as a trusted partner to industries requiring high-quality hardened parts.
Can you talk about the ongoing sustainability efforts and philanthropic work your company undertakes to make a positive impact beyond business operations?
In a world where sustainability requires careful conservation, we not only recognise the importance of this ethos but also take decisive action to embed it in our operations. For Srinivas, sustainability is not just a trendy catchphrase; it is a core value ingrained in our culture. Our management has positioned initiatives like Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) and water management as key pillars and recognised as key performance indicators. We strive to bring these initiatives to the forefront of our organisational objectives and ensure that they are given the attention they deserve, alongside traditional business objectives.
Moreover, our commitment is not just in words but is reflected in actions. For instance, tree planting is a cherished tradition at Srinivas, symbolizing our dedication to eco-friendly practices. Trees are planted whenever a dignitary visits the campus, contributing to the lush green landscape that surrounds it.
Furthermore, sustainability is of paramount importance in our manufacturing processes, where emulsions and cutting fluids play a key role: Throughout our emulsion/coolant supply system, we have implemented a centralized coolant circulation and filtration unit to ensure optimal utilisation whilst adhering to the principles of reduce, recycle and reuse.
Moreover, our efforts to reduce carbon dioxide emissions have culminated in the installation of a solar power project with a capacity of 312.39 kWp. Spread the word Spread across our 1,410 square meter campus, this solar grid demonstrates our proactive approach towards adopting renewable energy. For Srinivas, sustainability is not just a concept; it is a concrete commitment woven into the fabric of our organization that guides our actions towards a greener, more sustainable future.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) holds a special place for us and although we often prefer to operate quietly and without much fanfare, we felt it necessary to share with you our strong focus on education. This is an area in which we are deeply committed and are committed to doing all we can to contribute positively to the education sector.
Finally, let’s talk about Belagavi: what does the city offer in terms of food, culture and business opportunities? How can it contribute to the growth of manufacturing in Karnataka and India as a whole?
The neighbouring city of Kolhapur has witnessed remarkable growth, which is truly impressive. But as for Belagavi, we are blessed with a unique ecosystem boasting excellent oxygen supply. This natural bounty has nurtured a deep appreciation for our surroundings and has led us to prioritise harmony with nature over vertical growth. Unlike industries in some parts of the country that are expected to expand rapidly within a few years, Belagavi’s industrial landscape reflects a longer journey. But what sets Belagavi apart is the sense of contentment and joy found among its industrialists. These people, myself included, work happily, derive satisfaction from their efforts and cherish the fulfillment of their work. Belagavi.
