Leading positions in niche markets; Efficient operations; and Good overall financial profile. Core markets--commercial aerospace and industrial gas turbine--are highly cyclical and experienced sharp declines in recent years; and Acquisitions are an important part of growth strategy. The ratings on Precision Castparts Corp. are supported by its leading niche positions in most of its markets, some business diversity, efficient operations, and a good overall financial profile. The ratings also take into account the highly cyclical nature of core markets and potential for additional acquisitions. Portland, Ore.-based Precision Castparts is a manufacturer of complex metal components and products, and the leader in large structural investment castings, airfoil castings, and forged components used primarily in jet aircraft engines. Similar components are manufactured
