5 Proven Strategies to Optimize Cost Efficiency When Working With a Custom Converter
Striking the right balance between value and quality is top-of-mind for any business. When choosing a custom gasket partner, it is essential to take a step back, delve deeper and understand their competencies and business practices.
Exceptional converters deliver exceptional value through a focus on service, quality and efficiency.
At SRP, these areas of focus have allowed us to provide outstanding results for our customers.
1. Materials Selection
Material selection is a critical aspect where an experienced custom converter can save you time. We can pinpoint the precise pressure-sensitive adhesive and foam material for the job — the one that performs best for the application, while enhancing the durability, functionality and quality of the end product.
Look for converters with preferred partnerships with multiple suppliers, demonstrating a high level of expertise with their products.
2. Testing
Testing and prototyping are essential steps in the process, and a converter’s approach should help rather than hinder. Understanding the converter’s prototyping process, machining capabilities and timelines for producing and shipping samples is another key question to ask.
3. Tolerance
Making the right call on the tolerance range of your part is essential to managing the cost of your custom gasket order. Whenever you die-cut foam and sponge material, some variability in the dimensions is expected in the batch, though they may be imperceptible to the naked eye.
Why are there variations in flexible die-cut materials? When a metal die slices into the flexible material, it causes material compression, deflection and concavity.
How to calculate the right tolerance in flexible materials: When calculating specifications for soft components, you may have to adopt a wider tolerance range in many applications. A skilled custom converter can help pinpoint the optimal tolerance range for your gasket.
The benefits of being flexible with tolerance: Higher volumes of high-quality parts, less material waste and a more efficient use of your production time.
4. Fabricating
Efficiency is at the core of lean manufacturing practices. Depending on your material and volume, your converter may recommend die-cutting, laser cutting, or water jet cutting — each has distinct benefits for speed, precision, or prototyping.
Selecting the best die-cutting process suited for a given material is key. By designing a production plan centered around efficiency, quality and waste reduction, a custom converter can help you optimize your spend on custom gaskets while maintaining the quality and performance you expect.
5. Communication
We believe effective communication and collaboration are where successful partnerships begin. At SRP, we are independently owned and operated, allowing us to respond quickly at each stage of your project. No bureaucratic roadblocks, just the answers you’re looking for. When you call us at any stage of your project — quote, update, order change, problem-solving — we’re there.
Let SRP be your resource for custom gaskets
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