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Steel has been produced using blast furnaces since the 14th century. If you’re a business owner who uses steel plates, you need to make sure they’re processed properly.
If a steel plate isn’t processed correctly, it can have poor printing quality, durability, or adhesion. This can lead to production errors and unhappy clients.
To ensure your plates get processed correctly, you should find a heavy plate processing service provider. Finding the right provider for your steel needs can be tricky since there are so many out there.
Read on to learn more about what you should look for in a plate processing provider!
Services Offered
Plate processing providers can offer a variety of services in addition to cutting. Additional services a provider might offer include:
- Machining
- Bending
- Drilling
- Welding
- Painting
- Beveling
Keep in mind what you can easily do in-house and what is best to outsource. Having your processing provider complete a step your shop isn’t set up for can save you time and money.
Most processing service providers will have their services listed on their website. Check out https://www.intselsteelwest.com/value-added-services/plate-processing/ for a good example of a services page.
Current Technology
If a heavy plate processing service provider only uses a band saw and an oxyfuel torch, it should raise a red flag. You could just as easily cut the plate in your own shop with that level of equipment.
A good processing service provider will have the latest technology to meet your exact needs. Plate processing equipment like plasma cutting and milling machines are good indicators of a technologically advanced shop.
Competitive Pricing
While having a processing provider with all the bells and whistles is great, it still needs to fit within your budget. When choosing a provider, weigh the services provided against how much you can afford to spend.
Compare different providers’ pricing guides carefully. Also consider the price of ordering in bulk, which is often cheaper overall than repeatedly ordering a small amount of material.
Good Reputation
A quick glance at a company’s reviews online can tell you a lot. See what other businesses in your area are saying about the processing company.
Review pages like Google, Yelp, and Yellow Pages are a great place to get a feel for a company’s reputation in the community.
Turnaround Time
You may have to do a bit more digging or even make some calls for this. It doesn’t matter how good a company’s services are if your plates aren’t processed in time.
Keep your production schedule in mind and find out if your plates will be processed fast enough.
Get Your Steel Plate Processing Done Right
Shopping for a steel plate processing service provider can be stressful. You want a company that provides all the services you need, processes plates on time, and works for your budget.
After reading our helpful guide, you should have a good idea of what to look for in your processing provider. Take a look at our blog page to learn about other fascinating topics!
