subject: How To Find The Best Knob Manufacturers [print this page] Finding a manufacturer to get the right handles and knobs for your product or project can be difficult. When ordering a product online or over the phone you cannot touch it or see it, and must rely on knob manufacturers to accurately describe their machine knobs. You trust the knob manufacturers to not only ship the item on time and in good condition, you also trust them to supply a product that meets the quality standards and specifications required for your project. Thats a lot of trust for people you may have never met before!
There are a few simple ways to tell whether knob manufacturers are trustworthy and can meet your requirements. Keeping an eye out for three simple signs proof of quality, process control and application testing can mean the difference between a great experience and a bad one.
When ordering a part from any manufacturing company, check to see if it is ISO 9001:2008 registered. The International Organization for Standardization, or ISO, is a group of more than 160 members that outlines international rules for products. This registration is a strong sign a company is committed to manufacturing and testing quality products.
ISO 9000 is a collection of formal international standards, technical specifications, technical reports, handbooks and web-based documents that govern quality management. Each document outlines the standards that products and services need to meet to comply with the ISOs rules and regulations. The ISO 9001:2008 clarifies earlier requirements and ensures conformity to all international standards.
Process control is one way to demonstrate knob manufacturers dedication to making quality products. Knob companies must invest in tools and develop processes that guarantee the highest quality knobs and handles. The manufacturer should be flexible enough to meet your delivery demands. If you need something by rush delivery, the manufacturer should have flexible systems in place that allow it to comply. The manufacturer should also be well-established in the market; dont leave important instrument knobs to a company that doesnt have the experience you need.
Application testing is the final sign of a company that you can trust. Knob manufacturers should use advanced testing to assess their knobs and handles for customer applications. There are four important tests manufacturers should complete: accelerated aging, torque testing, tensile testing and corrosion testing.
Accelerated age testing evaluates the useful lifespan or shelf life of a product. The testing can be physical, chemical or both and will show how stress takes a toll on the product during a period of time. It will also show what can happen when the product experiences stress suddenly. Torque testing is used to calibrate torque controlled tools. This testing will measure both the clockwise and counterclockwise motions of a product. Tensile testing pulls a controlled section of the material until it changes shape or breaks. Corrosion testing forces oxidation of the knobs or handles to see how the product will react.
These signs are great indicators of a company that you can trust to fill your handle and knob needs. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to knob manufacturers with which you would like to do business. Ask for catalogs, call with questions, and evaluate whether the company will fill your needs. Once you have gathered all the information you need, you can make an educated decision that benefits you and your company.
