Question Checklist for a First Visit to a Zinc Alloy Die-Casting Supplier
A while ago I was looking for a zinc alloy die-casting supplier for my company. In this post I share the questions I asked during my first visit to understand the die-caster's process capabilities.
What precision can the parts or molds achieve? (Target: ±0.03 mm)
Are molds made in-house? If a new mold is opened, can you provide the mold 3D data?
What is the thinnest controllable wall thickness? (Typically 0.2 to 0.3 mm; stronger shops can reach 0.15 mm, but that requires special equipment.)
How do you verify plating reliability? Do you have 85/85 (temperature/humidity) or pressure test equipment, and tools to measure plating thickness?
Do you have XRF equipment to verify hazardous substances in-house?
After receiving a customer requirement, do you normally run a DFM/QC flow?
How are post-processing steps—degating, deburring, and sandblasting—done, and with what equipment?
Do you have an overhead crane for loading and unloading molds? After parts are ejected from the mold, are they removed by hand or by a robotic arm?
Is 5S properly practiced on the production line, and are material separation and management appropriate?
What tools are used for OQC inspection? (e.g., vernier calipers / 2.5D CCD measuring system / profile projector / depth gauge...)
Do you comply with RoHS II, and can you meet our company's Japanese environmental data requirements and documentation?
Comments