[Chris Fultz]

We use COTS for a few reasons -

1. We used to make our own. Without the precision machining capability, it is difficult to create the proper alignment for efficient running.

2. By purchasing, we can focus our time on the items we cannot buy as fabrications, such as lifts, arms, turrets, kickers, etc.

3. The purchased components work better than any we made ourselves.

From a business standpoint, purchase commodities and manufacture the custom, unique, "high value" items - especially if you only have 6 weeks.