Recently we ran across a public video on social media of what appeared to be an offshore manufacturing facility producing hydraulic cylinders. The process used took us aback as we observed manufacturing techniques considered ancient here in the US.
On top of obvious health and safety challenges, such as a solo operator lifting an entire finished cylinder and operating dangerous manual equipment with zero protective equipment, we observed wobbling drill presses, jury-rigged cutting equipment, and manual tools with no precision.
It made us realize that the sourcing of cylinders might be more opaque than we previously thought. When it comes to sourcing hydraulic cylinders, you have many options. Usually, choosing the least expensive option is a penny-wise, pound-foolish decision that saves you money in the short term and costs you more in the long term. That’s because low-cost providers, many of whom are located offshore, tend to use outdated manufacturing techniques and equipment.
Those practices and workstations can jeopardize worker health and safety and affect the quality of your finished products. In addition to those considerations, shipping times can vary, and you can miss critical production deadlines that put your relationships with customers at risk.
Before choosing a hydraulic cylinder manufacturing partner, it is best if you make certain they are fully committed to quality and safety, have easy-to-understand quality assurance processes in place, take full responsibility for replacing off-spec products, and offer robust technical support throughout the warranty period and ideally beyond it. Based on our experience, here is what you should know related to those four traits that separate desirable manufacturing partners from ones you should avoid working with.
1. Commitment to Quality & Safety
Reputable manufacturing partners will follow strict safety standards such as ISO 9001, a globally recognized standard for quality management systems (QMS).
These manufacturers will also have rigorous employee training programs and documented safety protocols that enable them to meet the letter and spirit of U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.
Generally, companies that submit to regular quality and safety audits use the best engineering and manufacturing practices, as well as the best quality materials to maintain the integrity of your cylinders in the field.
2. Transparent Quality Assurance Processes
When choosing a hydraulic cylinder manufacturer, makes sure you understand their processes for inspecting incoming materials and performing in-process checks and final inspections. A reputable manufacturer will use advanced equipment such as coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) for precision and non-destructive testing (NDT) to verify structural integrity.
Ideally, your manufacturing partner will have a well-documented process that is easy for you to understand. The manufacturer should also use Lean methodologies to help reduce defects. A robust traceability system that tracks each cylinder's production history ensures accountability.
3. Accountability for Off-Spec Products
A reputable manufacturer will stand by their products for defects resulting from errors or other deficiencies related to design, materials, or production. When sourcing hydraulic cylinders, make certain your manufacturing partner carries warranties that align with industry standards (1 to 3 years, depending upon the specific product you purchase).
4. Robust Technical Support
A reputable manufacturer will provide technical support, field service, and training to help you optimize product performance. Although that kind of assistance generally applies to the warranty period, a true partner will offer such help even after the warranty period has expired.
To work with a reliable manufacturing partner that always puts you first...
