The Top 5 Things to Look For in a Cutting Tool Manufacturer
If you're looking for a cutting tools manufacturer or have a special tool that can't be made in-house, you likely have a few requirements when looking for a supplier, such as:
- They can quickly produce what you need or has it in inventory.
- It's easy to order from them.
- Their customer support people are friendly and knowledgeable.
- They have been in business long enough to be credible.
Beyond this, several more factors are also important. In the long run, you'll be more satisfied with a cutting tool company that fulfills the requirements described below.
1.Rapid Production and Delivery Services
When a cutting tool breaks, and no replacement is on hand, production comes to a standstill. Custom cutting tools such as special taps can sometimes take days to source, which leads to a delayed production schedule and loss in revenue.
Even if you think you'll never need 24-hour turnaround for a cutting tool, a cutting tools supplier that can provide such a service means that it has established and efficient procedures.
2.Industries Served
You may or may not need cutting tools that are specific to your industry, but a company that has produced cutting tools for your industry will be more educated and familiar with your specific needs and requirements. Working across many industries naturally means the cutting tools supplier is experienced with a wide variety of cutting tools.
Also important is the cutting tools manufacturer's experience with industries that have strict requirements, such as aerospace or medical. These industries have rigorous supplier requirements because a tool or part failure can result in fatalities; a manufacturer that makes tools for those industries has proven its manufacturing excellence.
3.Researches and Develops New Products and Product Lines
A company that devotes itself to developing new products and manufacturing methods means it is constantly striving to provide their clients with the best final product possible. Here are several signs that a cutting tool company intends to stay progressive:
- Staffs in-house engineers
- Runs a Research and Development department
- Invests in state-of-the-art production machinery
- Provides education and development programs for employees
- Expands their offering of new coatings, materials, or product lines regularly
4.Certifications and Memberships
A cutting tool company that belongs to national or international associations that promote quality and trade is more likely to keep up with the latest trends, discoveries, and studies in the industry. Below are a few organizations that support cutting tools suppliers:
International Standards Organization (ISO)
A company that is ISO-certified means that its products conform to a specific set of standards. Depending on your industry, it may be a requirement to use only manufacturers who have ISO certification.
United States Cutting Tool Institute (USCTI)
USCTI is a trade association that helps promote North American cutting tools manufacturers. It helps its members stay current by disseminating information about industry trends, product standards development, material specifications, and so forth.
Industrial Supply Association (ISA)
ISA is for companies that provide products for maintenance, repair, operating, and production (MROP). Being a member of ISA provides access to industry performance data and educational material to remain competitive and up-to-date on emerging technologies and material.
5.Location, Location, Location
For delivery reasons, you might want to consider where the manufacturer is located. If the manufacturer supplies its products via distributors, make sure they are located in areas that can quickly serve your needs.
Even if you don't think you need a distributor anywhere but near you, your business needs may change as your company grows. If you acquire another business or open another location, you will want close distribution channels that you can rely on.
For American companies, another location-related concern is whether or not the manufacturer has its facilities within the United States. If it's possible for you to support American-made products, you not only know you are getting quality products but you are also helping support and keep jobs in the USA.
Whether you end up choosing Regal or another provided for your metal cutting tool products, these are the characteristics that make up a great metal cutting tool manufacturer.
Regal is proud to have provided craftspeople quality metalworking tools for over 60 years. View our catalogs for our extensive offering of special taps, drills, end mill, and reamers. Have a question? Contact our service team at 800-435-2948, or submit your question via our Ask a Question page. If you already know what you need, you can jump straight to the Request a Quote page. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you!