Auto cos shut ops as lack of O2 hits parts supplies Top Searches Auto cos shut ops as lack of O2 hits parts supplies FacebookTwitterLinkedinEMail CHENNAI: While automotive vehicle manufacturers opt for shutting down plants to avoid inventory pile up as major sales markets are under complete lockdown, shop floor managers are witnessing shortage of auto parts - made using cutting and welding sheet metals - as oxygen supplies, key to cutting metals, are diverted for medical purposes. In a bid to make available oxygen for medical purposes, the government has imposed restrictions on its industrial use. The iron and steel sector, which are oxygen guzzlers, have diverted their entire oxygen production to hospitals. Besides, cutting sheet metal also requires oxygen gas, before they are welded. Thus, some welded parts that are required by auto companies are in short supply.