Having been in the metalworking industry for over 75 years, Alloy understands the time, effort and money that goes into new product development. Choosing the right fabricator could mean the difference between a new product’s success or failure.
Although Alloy retains in-house designers and engineers, we understand that it’s not uncommon for customers to work with multiple partners throughout the concept and design phases of product creation.
If you are approaching or have recently reached the prototyping and testing phase of new product development, there are several things to keep in mind when choosing a metal fabrication partner and prototype services in Ohio.
Prototype Services in Ohio and Metal Prototyping and Fabrication Partnership
The best prototype manufacturing partner should display the same passion for product development as you have for seeing your design come to fruition. It’s important to seek out metal manufacturers who give priority to metal fabrication projects of all sizes. If you are developing a one-time design, your metal fabricator should dedicate as much time and energy as they would to a large-scale production.
Additionally, a metal fabrication partner who aims to provide the best service to all customers will employ an engineering and consultation process that puts an emphasis on your requirements and expectations. They will seek to find the most cost-effective design and production methods for both their business and your business.
Keeping that in mind, Alloy believes the best metal prototype manufacturers should retain several key qualities:
Diverse Material Selection
Without the proper material for your application, your project could be set up to fail before it even begins. If a fabricator presents you with limited material options, they are probably not equipped to handle the unique demands of metal prototyping.
We work with a variety of materials including stainless steel, carbon, aluminum – all in sheet and tube form. Our team knows which material will work best based on the application and your specifications.
Ability to Marry Design with Real World Fabrication
Sometimes designs come to us that may work when modeled, but don’t translate when fabricated. Design considerations like hole diameters, locations, and the appropriate part thickness must be considered.
A good metal fabrication partner will be honest when advising you on the ability to make your concept a reality. Meeting a customer’s specifications while making their part in a fast and cost-effective way is our ultimate goal.
Cost-Conscious and Quick Turnaround
A finished prototype might need more than fabrication. By working with a fabricator who offers other services such as welding, machining, powder coating and finishing, you save time and money by eliminating the need to ship your prototype to other partners.
Alloy aims to provide in-house services that meet the demands of every prototype. The more we can do under one roof, the lower the project cost.
Functional Drawings with Manufacturing Instructions
Once a successful prototype has been created, you will need functional designs that allow the product to be manufactured in the required volume.
Our team can translate your ideas into design files that can be used in the future should production go beyond a single prototype. We also have the ability to develop comprehensive manufacturing instructions with your design files.
When it comes time to manufacture a new part, selecting a partner that meets your needs is crucial. Our team of experts is here to help you through the tough considerations, so your prototype can go from concept to reality.
Do you have a project that could use our expertise? Give us a call at 330-948-3535 or contact us today to learn more about Alloy Fabricators and our prototype experience.