Every day at Profile Precision Extrusions, we review new aluminum tube and shape designs. Early on in our discussions with designers, we are asked about our minimum order size policy. Most designers are surprised that we do not have a minimum order size requirement! They are surprised because the majority of manufacturers do have a minimum order requirement. This minimum is usually between 500 and 1,000 pounds of extrusion. Customers benefit from our ‘no minimum order requirement’ in many ways. One of the benefits is that our customers get just the right amount for prototyping- only having to order what is needed during pre-production, rather than ramping up to full production.
Prototyping Phase
The Prototyping Phase of a new aluminum extrusion design is intended to test and improve upon a new part design. Multiple designs may be tested looking for the best performing version. In most cases, it is an evolution from one design to the next. The parts’ geometry, fabrication methods, and coating may change throughout the parts’ evolution. Very little aluminum may actually be required for each generation. The designer saves money by only ordering what is needed for the testing of each generation. The designer also benefits from shorter lead times for production orders.
Pre-Production Phase
Once the design is set, pre-production parts are ordered to test the supply chain of the vendors as well as the final assembly process. Aluminum extrusion requirements during this phase may range from less than 100 to several hundred pieces. Ordering only what is required saves money, as it minimizes excess parts and inventory, and reduces scrap if a final part redesign is required.
Production Phase
Ramping up to full production generally involves increasingly large orders over the course of six to twelve months. At this stage, the customer is increasing production, getting product into the marketplace, and gauging the response from target customers. During this phase, it is important to make what the market demands. This helps to keep inventory costs low, increase inventory turns, and use cash-on -hand wisely. It benefits the supplier by keeping lead times short and increasing the flexibility to support other projects.
Overall, Profile Precision Extrusions strives to make doing business easy. Our formula for success is simple: Make what the customer wants when they need it, and ship it out on time. Supporting our customers’ needs throughout the product lifecycle makes for a long and lasting relationship. Call us today to find out how we can simplify your next product development program.
