Not All Aluminum Suppliers Are the Same

In residential and commercial construction, military and defense projects, telecommunication and aerospace as well as automotive equipment, parts, and components, aluminum is often the metal of choice.

With high levels of corrosion resistance, the ability to withstand extreme temperatures and a top rating strength to weight ratio, the different alloys, and tempers of aluminum make it an important material option for a vast number of applications.

Choosing the best aluminum suppliers is important for several reasons. By understanding the differences between top suppliers and those that may be selling a range of different metals products, you will recognize how a more focused approach brings quality and consistency to your supply chain.

Aluminum Centers

Rather than buy from full line metal supply centers that carry aluminum along with other products, choose aluminum suppliers that exclusively carry aluminum. With aluminum as the sole metal offered, there is a good chance their on-hand inventory will be broader in both alloy variety and size offerings. There is a much higher likelihood that they will carry the hard to find items or at least know how to get them.

The key to success for aluminum suppliers is their people: a customer service representative goes the distance to find you tough items, is knowledgeable not only in the products his company stocks but equally so in his competitor’s, and prides himself in knowing all there is to know about aluminum, and takes the time to educate you.

As one of the top aluminum suppliers, Howard Precision Metals offers wrought and cast aluminum plate as well as mold plate and aluminum bar. With a large on-hand inventory, there is a much shorter turnaround time for orders; standard plate and bar items often ship within a few days of the order placement.

Additionally, through our exclusive mill partnerships, Howard is able to bring in specialized or custom plate and bar items much faster than other general metal supply centers.

Support and Assistance

Specialized aluminum companies like Howard Precision Metals hire sales and support staff that are knowledgeable in working with aluminum. This is very helpful when choosing aluminum for key parts and components, which are made from alloys such as mold plate, 6061, or cast tool and jig plate.

Having the ability to talk to these experts helps ensure you receive the right aluminum for your needs. In some cases, we may be able to offer a lower cost option, which creates a win-win situation with any order. To get started on your order, call us today at 800-444-0311.