Thunderbird Mining Systems

Thunderbird Mining Systems (Thunderbird Pacific Corporation) designs, produces and distributes electronic instruments and software systems for the mining industry. The products, which are sold worldwide, are designed to improve the efficiency and productivity of the mining operation. With this focus on one industry, Thunderbird is able to concentrate its efforts, which allows it to be extremely responsive to the needs of its customers.

Background

The privately owned company was formed in January, 1988 following the acquisition of the Drilling Efficiency Indicator™ product line from Vehicle Systems Corporation (VSC), a subsidiary of Caterpillar. Thunderbird and its predecessors, VSC and GLI Corporation (a Baker Hughes subsidiary) have been producing electronic products for off- highway equipment in the mining, construction, agricultural, and energy industries since 1965.

Location

Thunderbird is in Redmond, Washington near Seattle. This location gives Thunderbird access to outstanding research facilities, suppliers, sub-contractors, and a highly trained group of people. The location also provides Thunderbird with excellent air and surface transportation to its worldwide customer base.

Distribution

Thunderbird's products are distributed by mining equipment manufacturers and a worldwide dealer organization who service the mining industry. The products can be installed on new equipment or can be retrofitted to equipment in the field. Field service is provided by Thunderbird personnel and its network of distributors.

Production & Product Development

The majority of the components utilized in Thunderbird's systems are manufactured by Seattle area sub-contractors to Thunderbird drawings and specifications. Final assembly and all system testing is done by Thunderbird personnel. This ensures a high quality product which is essential for electronics to operate and survive in the hostile environment of the mining industry.

New product development continues in order to meet the on-going needs of the mining industry to increase productivity and efficiency. The people at Thunderbird understand the mining industry, its operating environment, and conditions. In addition, Thunderbird is working with mines, manufacturers, and research groups to ensure that this product development provides practical solutions to meet their needs. Thunderbird believes that this approach will lead to new products which will provide mining companies with a rapid payback on their up-front investments.