The key to creating a successful plastic product is partnering with the proper plastic manufacturer. Here are things that the manufacturer needs to know before they can get started on creating your new product:
1. The Plastic Product
You should clearly understand the manufacturer's capabilities when creating a new plastic product. Have a thorough conversation about the specifics with them to make sure they know the product you need. Specify the product's material, size, weight, and color so the manufacturer can produce it as desired. Describe its intended use and any unique elements it should include, such as connectors or locks that need to be included in production.
Discuss expected costs and the timeline for delivery of the product up front. Finally, lay out any regulations you must adhere to for manufacturing or sales purposes.
Be sure to provide any designs, sketches, drawings, and/or CAD files to help your manufacturer visualize the final product. With all of these items covered ahead of time, you can be sure you have the best manufacturer on your team for producing the perfect plastic product.
2. The Plastic Type and Grade You Require
You need to know the specific type and grade of plastic your product should be made from. This will help the manufacturer understand the material they will need for your product and information such as plastic specifications, tolerances, and components. It also allows them to identify any compatibility issues between plastic parts and create an effective production process. Let them know what industry standards should be met and any other pertinent specifications that should be considered when fabricating your plastic part. Providing these details from the onset can save time, money, and hassle when communicating with your manufacturer throughout the development process.
3. Performance and Physical Requirements for the Plastic
When you approach manufacturers to create a new product, provide them with all the necessary information upfront. Make sure to express your performance and physical requirements for the plastic. Also, consider any other characteristics that could affect the plastic in your design. Once you have provided your manufacturer, they can recommend various plastic types and properties that suit your needs. This way, you are less likely to have issues or delays when producing the plastic components for your new product.
4. Any Tolerances That Must Be Met
You must provide clear instructions regarding any specific tolerances the plastic components must meet. Since manufacturers produce parts based on exact specifications, these tolerances must be well-defined to create products with the desired fit, finish, and performance. It will be easier to avoid any expensive delays or reworks later on if you take the time upfront to define your expectations.
5. Short-term and Long-term Production Needs
Creating a new product from plastic requires understanding both short- and long-term production needs. This step helps your plastic manufacturer to achieve your desired result. Break down every component of the plastic production process, so all objectives are front-of-mind for the manufacturer and any parties involved in the project. This includes providing them information about your product, like its purpose, intended uses, and how long you need it to last. Establishing a clear concept alongside detailed plans will maximize clarity and enable smoother communication throughout plastic production.
6. Any Additional Plastic Part Finishes
Inform the manufacturer of any assembly or decorating requirements upfront so they can discuss the possibilities with their team and inform you of available options. Let them know any specific plastic part finishes that may be required for your product.
Discuss things such as colors, marking requirements, labeling, welding lines, polishing, and surface treatments up front. Also, include components and materials that must be sourced and integrated into plastic parts during production. Detailed information helps make sure that the plastic parts meet your specifications.
7. Part Testing Procedures
Be sure to outline all necessary tests for the plastic parts. This could include visual checks, dimensional measurements, and material property testing of plastic materials such as shock- and flammability-resistance.
Whether you are molding or extruding plastic or testing for material properties such as tensile strength and elongation, providing specifications early on will save time later in the process. Ultimately, these tests assist in validating that your plastic components are safe before production begins.
Collaborate With the Plastic Manufacturer for Successful Productions
By providing your plastic manufacturer with this information, they will be better equipped to help you create a successful product.