There are lots of things to consider when choosing a plastic extrusion partner. This short article focuses on critical attributes when comparing providers.
Application expertise
Does the prospective partner operate in your sector? Do they have a heritage in providing solutions to customers like you, or in solving extrusion challenges like the ones you are currently facing? Look for signs of previous work or references to your sector on their website and in their marketing material.
Materials credibility
Does the prospective partner offer a bespoke solution or are they offering a relatively generic off the shelf approach? What materials are they comfortable working with? Are they creative in their thinking around your challenge? Test them out by keeping some of the information back and seeing what they come back to you with.
In-house capability (total project management)
Consider partners that can provide 2D and 3D CAD specialists and rapid prototyping facilities. Managing design into bespoke tooling production all in-house by experienced toolmakers should be high on the agenda of a potential customer.
Add onsite colour matching and material production and you should start to see fast turnaround on large and small batches as well as superior colour matching. In-house finishing and secondary operations services (cutting, mitring, routing, machining) will also help deliver a more streamlined product and service experience.
Size and scale
Choose a partner that can provide the reassurance of an operation that can accommodate your projects. Visit their facilities, assess their production lines, equipment and production planning methodologies and technology. You need to feel confident that they are able to deliver.
We hope this information is useful as you consider your next extrusion partner. Download our more expansive guide on choosing a plastic extrusion partner here [link to download]
