“Designers are still missing out on the efficiency and cost benefits of using standard parts in product development”, according to global parts provider norelem. Many designers are still relying on custom-made parts to create their prototypes, however, this often comes with hidden costs and can be a drain on productivity.
Marcus Schneck, CEO of norelem, comments: “Like every other facet of manufacturing, product development is always looking for ways it can create efficiencies. Using more standard parts from a full line manufacturer like norelem makes design work significantly easier, quicker and more cost-effective."
Even for a relatively simple component like a locating bolt, a designer needs an average of 15 minutes for a production-ready drawing, including dimensions. Along with the costs incurred for manufacturing, this is an expensive and time-consuming process compared to ordering a standard part. In-house manufacturing also means reliance on a supply chain for raw materials, booking in production time and allowing time for changeover of tooling. In addition to this, custom parts production can lead to inaccuracies in tolerance limits, meaning that either reworking is required or sometimes the entire process needs to start over.
Designing with standard components has many advantages. Parts like locating pins, bushings and ball bearing housings are significantly less effort to procure than produce – and assembly is also faster. This is because standard parts are manufactured precisely, eliminating the need for reworking. Typically, it also means a shorter development phase, especially in mechanical engineering, meaning that you get your product to market faster.
Another advantage is the quick and easy replacement of parts. If a standard part becomes worn or damaged, it is simple to re-order, rather than going through the entire manufacturing process once again for a custom part.
“Designers have evolved to be more like project managers today,” adds Marcus. “At the beginning of every project, norelem recommends that a designer identifies and clarifies which components are available as standardised parts. Of course, almost all projects will require some unique parts, however, by using as many standard parts as possible, the designer can fully focus on these custom components.”
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