Latrobe, Pa.,-based Kennametal Inc. announced a multi-year renewal of its machining technology partnership with Chip Ganassi Teams (CGRT). Kennametal began its relationship with CGRT in 1993.

The No. 50 Target Honda of four-time and defending Indycar champion and three-time Indianapolis 500 Winner Dario Franchitti on the track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Through the partnership, Kennametal provides Ganassi’s Indy machine shop with the proprietary precision surface management solution produced by Kennametal Extrude Hone. The surface-finishing solution achieves uniform, repeatable, predictable results by removing the rough cast surfaces that restrict the efficiency of critical engine components and performance competence, according to the company.

With cars competing in multiple series, such as the Izod Indy car series, the NASCAR Sprint Cup series and the Rolex Grand-AM series, Chip Ganassi Racing holds a record of 15 championships and more than 140 victories, including four Indianapolis 500 wins, according to Kennametal. The renewal follow’s Chip Ganassi team member Dario Franchitti’s first-place finish at the 2012 Indianapolis 500—Franchitti’s third win.

Kennametal offers tooling and services for the automotive industry, machining engine blocks, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshafts, gear boxes, suspension parts, exhaust systems, brake parts and wheels.

Posted June 4