The integration of lightweight materials and components into automotive applications has been a key driver of the global automotive community since the oil embargo legislation of the early 1970s. Since then, manufacturers have integrated new lightweight technologies that have contributed toward the reduction of fuel consumption for their vehicles. Cast aluminum structural components require increased heat-treatment processing demands over conventional aluminum casting requirements. Because of these demands, structural-component manufacturers will require systems that meet the following guidelines: (1) Structural heat-treatment systems are designed using modern modeling tools and integrate sophisticated and unique features for structural castings. (2) The relationship between structural component, carrier and automated furnace handling are carefully considered and CFD modeled to achieve the required heating and quenching uniformity expectations of a robust automotive process. (3) Casting dimensional .stability, reduced residual stress levels and enhanced mechanical property levels are optimized through proven Precision Air Quench technology, (4) Solution and aging furnace designs integrate flexibility for future modular capacity expansions. (5) Quench-rate parameters are automatically controlled for variations in ambient and/or local conditions to provide reproducible part-to-part properties. (6) Quench-system optimization can be provided through integration with multiple solution systems. (7) Equipment floor space is optimized through high-density quenching systems. (8) Level-2 automation systems provide automatic recipe selection of quench rates for various components being produced. (9) Quench systems are available for heavy part sections and castings containing core sand. (10) Various system layouts can be considered for optimal facility material flow. (11) Quench-system sound power levels are minimized via acoustical design features. (12) Structural-component heat-treatment systems are designed to be CQI-9 compliant. (13) Systems are made available globally, integrating local codes and specification requirements. Aluminum structural-component heat treatment systems, along with a wide variety of other ferrous and nonferrous heat treatment systerms, are made available by Can-Eng Furnaces International.