16th August 2023
Metal stamping encompasses numerous metal forming techniques, so knowing what to look for in a metal stamping partner or supplier is essential for the success of your project.
A suitable supplier has the potential to accelerate your production timelines, reduce expenses, and deliver superior quality outcomes. Conversely, the wrong partner can result in setbacks, product recalls, and unsatisfactory inspection outcomes, all of which negatively impact your financial performance.
With so many options available in the market, it's important to carefully evaluate and consider certain critical factors before making your decision. In this article, we’ll discuss the key considerations to keep in mind when selecting a metal stamping supplier.
If you are looking for a metal stamping company, it is important to understand the difference between a supplier and a partner.
A supplier offers metal stamping services, while a partner offers the required metal stamping services and more. They should be able to provide all project assistance, including design, engineering, manufacturing, and finishing. The offerings from a metal stamping partner help shorten production timelines and reduce production costs.
Your metal stamping partner should be able to provide design recommendations that will help avoid defects and future expenses. At BSL, we achieve this by offering bespoke metal stamping services, designing the part based on the step-by-step metal stamping process. When you know exactly how each step affects the workpiece, you can reduce or eliminate some of the costs of design.
Additionally, your manufacturer should be working with a wide range of materials to be able to suggest and provide you with the best for your metal stamping project. At BSL, we have years of experience with a wide range of materials, including Copper, Phosphor bronze, Brass, Aluminium and more.
Both the type of equipment employed and the lead time for raw material orders are estimated to affect a company’s production capacity. A metal stamping partner should utilise metalworking equipment that allows them to complete projects efficiently without sacrificing precision or accuracy.
At Birmingham Specialities we have an extensive range of presses at our disposal. We have 32 power presses between 6 and 160 tonnes, four air presses, and two hydraulic presses. In addition, we have 14 hand presses, which allow for greater precision and control in smaller projects.
Quality is paramount in metal stamping. Your partner should implement rigorous quality control measures to ensure consistency and reliability. Therefore, you should always check out their quality assurance procedures, certifications, and standards.
A reputable supplier will have well-defined quality management systems, such as ISO 9001 certification, and may employ advanced inspection equipment and techniques to guarantee the highest product quality. At Birmingham Spec, we’ve been awarded the ISO 9001:2015.
Efficiency is crucial in your business, where time holds immense value. From the very first consultation to the final delivery, prompt response times guarantee the timely completion of your projects. It is paramount that your metal stamping supplier maintains frequent and effective communication with you, ensuring seamless coordination and meeting production deadlines flawlessly.
One of the first factors to consider is the supplier's experience and expertise in metal stamping. Look for a company that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality stamped metal components.
Consider their years of operation, the industries they have served, and the complexity of projects they have handled. An experienced manufacturer is more likely to have refined their manufacturing processes, possess extensive knowledge of materials and techniques, and have a better understanding of industry standards and regulations.
Integrating in-house tooling design and development services within metal stamping companies grants them enhanced authority over part and process quality. By possessing the capability to craft personalised tooling for each project, these companies can effectively safeguard the smooth progression of production, ensuring it aligns precisely with the intended objectives.
As mentioned earlier, an ideal metal stamping partner should go beyond merely providing metal stamping capabilities. They should offer a comprehensive range of secondary operations, either through their in-house facilities. This full-service stamping solution enables clients to access a wide array of additional finishing processes. Some examples of these supplementary services that a partner may provide include forming and welding and sub-assemblies.
For a prosperous partnership with a manufacturer, effective communication and exceptional customer service play pivotal roles. It is imperative to seek out a partner that exemplifies responsiveness, proactivity, and a genuine willingness to collaborate closely with you throughout the entire manufacturing process.
They should possess the ability to deliver clear and timely updates, promptly address any concerns or issues that may arise, and demonstrate a steadfast commitment to comprehending and fulfilling your unique requirements.
At Birmingham Specialities, our goal is to form a productive relationship with you from the earliest stages of design through the final delivery of your product. That’s why we are committed to excellent customer service throughout every stage of our partnerships. Request a quote to learn more about how we can serve you.