MINNEAPOLIS–Precision Associates, Inc. (PAI) is ramping up its production of several essential rubber components for ventilator manufacturer Ventec Life Systems. Ventec recently announced plans to partner with GM to increase the output of these crucial units in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Critical patients suffering from the virus have difficulty breathing and require ventilator assistance for life support. GM is now transforming one of its factories to begin assembling ventilators for Ventec in early April.

Due to the confidential nature of their relationship with Ventec, Brad Kadue, President of Precision Associates declined to give specifics about the parts or project, but stated that the company “has dedicated engineering, production and tool-making resources to meet the accelerated production timeline.”

Precision Associates also molds parts for other ventilators and diagnostic equipment used in laboratories for COVID-19 testing. “Our team continues to produce the high-precision, tight-tolerance parts that are the foundation of our 65-year reputation. But now we’re doing it with the realization that our parts are helping to save lives,” says Kadue.