Precision Metal Stamping — How To Find A Qualified Supplier (Ten Factors To Consider)

When selecting a supplier for stamped metal components with tight tolerances and critical features, there are some important factors that you should consider.  Although important, unit cost should not be the sole deciding factor as explained below.  Making a purchasing decision only based on quoted cost may result in overall dissatisfaction with a supplier’s performance, or even in a disastrous situation.  The following ten factors should be taken into account when selecting a precision metal stamping supplier: (1) years of experience, (2) ability to design precision metal stamping dies, (3) ability to build and troubleshoot precision metal stamping dies, (4) process control, (5) a die maintenance program, (6) delivery time frame, (7) running speed, (8) spare tooling, (9) “attention to detail”, and (10) the ability to perform secondary operations (such as plating, cleaning, etc.). By Rick Pollick, Mgr., Strategic Marketing – Penn United Technologies, Inc.