An imperfection in a factory line can have outsized consequences. And regardless of whether you’re building mechanical systems or shipping your high-spec parts, when it comes to integrity, performance and appearance, the devil is in the detail of that final finish. However, while it may seem like a small detail, Companies that neglect part finishing during manufacturing risk negative consequences.
At WGS Global Services, we’ve witnessed precision finishing many times and how the definition of precision can vary from one part of the production cycle to the next. This is what manufacturers need to know about the behind-the-scenes costs of poor finishing and how to avoid them altogether.
The Real Cost of Imperfect Part Finishing: Rough Etch and Poor Preparation
When parts are not properly ground, sanded or deburred, it’s not just being nit-picky. This causes friction points, alignment issues, and, in some cases, a potential safety concern during the final assembly. Poor surface finishing can:
-Prevent adequate mating or sealing of components
-medium to low coating and paint adhesion.
-It also results in early onset corrosion or wear
-Cause failures and rework downstream with the customer
Just one defective part in a batch can tip the entire balance. Worse yet, once those parts end up in the hands of a customer, the cost of warranty claims, returns or brand damage can quickly go through the roof.
Why In-House Finishing Comes Up Short
Some manufacturers try to bring part finishing in house but without the right equipment and trained finishing experts, part quality may be sacrificed. Those whose primary job is not finishing, including line workers, would not likely have the time, fixtures or experience to continuously achieve detailed finish specifications, especially at high volumes.
That is the type of situation where a capable partner, such as WGS, is smart. Our finishes are geared to provide:
Precision Grinding: This method ensures accuracy by removing only the necessary material to achieve specified tolerances.
Sanding: Sanding is performed to create a smooth and even surface finish.
Deep Chamfering: This technique effectively removes burrs and rounds edges without causing damage to the workpiece.
We customize our metal finishing services for prototypes, small quantities, and all other needs.
How Finishing Impacts Your Bottom Line
Throughout your entire operation, the positive impacts of getting it right from the start extend:
-Decreased wastes and scrap rates
-Enhanced customer experience and fewer returned products
-Increased throughput and more consistent workflow.
-Improved adherence to industry and/or ISO standards.
It also enhances personnel safety and minimizes tool wear in subsequent operations to help streamline overall production.
WGS: Your Top Resource for High-Quality Manufacturing Assistance
WGS Global Services has more than 20-years of providing comprehensive service solutions to manufacturers from initial prototype to finishing, re-manufacturing and pack-out. We’re not check-the-boxers we think like manufacturers. We know what counts, where risks lie and how to prevent problems before they occur.
Are you dealing with quality that fluctuates, a stressed internal team or an increase in customer complaints? Are you prepared to remove the flubs and fumbles before they become duds? Reach out to WGS today to begin and receive professional finishing help that preserves your product and your image.