Choosing the right core materials is crucial for any manufacturing business. The core material forms the basis of the final product and determines many of its key properties. Let's explore some important factors to consider when selecting core materials.
Material Properties
The Core Materials should have properties suited for the intended application and end use of the product. Key properties to consider include strength, weight, resistance to heat, corrosion and wear among others. For example, a high strength alloy may be required for structural or load bearing components while a lightweight material would be preferred for mobile or automotive applications.
Cost of Material
Cost is an important decision factor, especially for high volume production. Materials with similar properties but varying costs need to be compared. While an expensive material may be desirable from an engineering perspective, cheaper alternatives should also be evaluated to optimise costs. Value engineering can help identify cost-effective materials without compromising on quality.
Machinability and Forming
The core material has to undergo various manufacturing processes like machining, forming, welding etc. Its formability and machinability properties are important to evaluate processing efficiency and costs. Materials that are easily machined or formed reduce production time and expenses. Those requiring special tools or conditions increase overheads.
Supply and Availability
Reliable sourcing of the core raw material is crucial to ensure uninterrupted production schedules. Materials with uncertain or limited supply sources carry risks of non-availability. Local and global supply chain constraints need attention. Alternatives with stable supply chains improve productivity and deliveries.
Design Flexibility
The core material limits or enables certain design possibilities for the end product. More versatile materials allow innovative designs optimising performance, aesthetics or other criteria. Material properties like joinability influence assembly designs. Lightweight strong materials extend design flexibility.
Regulatory Compliance
Core materials intended for applications like medical devices, automotive, aerospace etc. must comply with stringent industry standards and regulations. Potential environmental, health and safety issues require evaluation. Compliant materials reduce compliance costs and risks of product recalls.
End of Life and Sustainability
Sustainable materials should have minimal environmental impact right from sourcing till the end of product life. Reusability, recyclability or disposal methods of the core material need evaluation. ‘Green’ materials support sustainable manufacturing and help companies achieve their ESG goals.
Industry Expertise
Material expertise and experience within supplier industries are valuable resources. They help address technology or process issues. Industry alliances provide access to continuous innovation driving efficiency and competitiveness.
selecting the right core material involves a careful evaluation of technical, economic and strategic factors that optimise operations as well as product performance for target applications. A robust core material selection process ensures manufacturing success.
Get More Insights On- Core Materials
Get This Report In Japanese Language
Get This Report In Korean Language
About Author:
Priya Pandey is a dynamic and passionate editor with over three years of expertise in content editing and proofreading. Holding a bachelor's degree in biotechnology, Priya has a knack for making the content engaging. Her diverse portfolio includes editing documents across different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. Priya's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset in the world of content creation and refinement.
(LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-pandey-8417a8173/)
