When choosing a steel casting foundry, the most important part of the purchasing process is the supplier qualification. The assumption of qualification of any supplier willing to contractually meet the purchase requirement is totally incorrect and can cause serious quality issues.
Choosing an unqualified and low-cost supplier might waste your money and decrease your Return on Investment in the long run. Selecting the right Steel Casting Company for a specific application requires careful consideration.
To help you through this process, here are the top five things that you should consider when choosing the right steel casting foundry:
1) Diversity in Foundry ProcessesIf you have components that require a variety of designs, applications, and sizes, it is obvious that the best casting process for each of them is not the same one. If a company uses only an investment casting process and the best process for your components is a sand casting process, then you need to determine beforehand about the types of casting processes they do as there could be a manipulation in the quality of the components that are provided to you.
2) ExperienceA steel casting foundry having plenty of experience is quite common, but the thing you need to consider is whether they have experience in your market or not. A steel casting foundry that understands where your products will be applied and other various factors can also anticipate and predict potential problems in advance. Hence, while choosing steel casting foundry for your needs, check their website if any and see their key markets. Most casting manufacturers who are experienced and reputable have their key markets published on their websites so it is easier for potential clients to determine if the foundry is right for them or not.
3) Testing and CertificationsAnother important thing to consider when choosing the right steel casting foundry is to confirm that your potential supplier has all the proper certifications which can give a proof for their quality of products provided. Quality must be of paramount importance when contemplating on which steel casting company to choose. Most reputable casting companies have their list of certifications on their websites.
Consider and think about the type of testing that you need, like, if you need non-destructive testing (NDT), mechanical testing, or chemical testing. Most metal casting foundries and suppliers outsource any needed testing and some even have in-house capabilities which can save your money as well as time.
4) Product Quality and PriceIt is obvious that the quality of the product is what matters the most. Make sure that your potential supplier does not only excel in one kind of market but all kinds. Also, keep the price point in your mind. Lower prices mean lower quality and services but higher prices do not always ensure good quality. Find out what is more important to you, lower price or better quality and choose accordingly.
5) Other ServicesOther than providing the usually needed components for your company, check if the steel casting foundry has any other value-added services that can prove beneficial for you. For example, some companies offer professionals who can review your design and material selection and provide recommendations as well while some companies have in-house metallurgy expertise who can guide your alloy selection.