When you need aluminum parts, you will have a number of different options from which to choose. There are probably many metal service centers in your area, so you should do your homework before making a final decision. You should know, however, that it is always best to go with a service center that focuses 100 percent on handling aluminum because of the additional knowledge and care they will provide. In the end, this extra service ensures that you get the exact parts you need and that they are extremely high in quality.
Having what you need
Perhaps the main benefit of choosing an all-aluminum service center is the fact that they have a knowledge and expertise about aluminum, not found at every metal distributor. You can also depend on them having a depth and breadth of inventory in both common and hard to find Aluminum items. Things like Arconic’s Mic-6 cast aluminum tooling plate is not carried by everyone. In addition, one that knows the history behind a product like Mic-6. Although the name has remained the same, the company who owns and produces Mic-6 has changed several times and may confuse people. Alumax, Alcoa and Arconic are just part of this product’s history. Your best bet is to align yourself with an aluminum supplier that carries a variety of options and has people that know enough to explain the differences.
The Shipping Process
Choosing a reliable aluminum service center gives you the benefit of receiving your products in a safe manner that protects them from damage during transport. As a soft metal, aluminum is subject to damage if mishandled during shipping. Aluminum service centers that deal in aluminum exclusively know how to handle this material and prevent your products from getting knocked around or otherwise damages during loading, delivery, and unloading.
Aluminum can scrape against harder surfaces and sustain damage as result as well. An experienced aluminum service center will know how to protect aluminum by applying specialized packaging to ensure metal is protected during transport. Aluminum suppliers with experience will also understand where and how to place aluminum on a truck to prevent its damage and any unnecessary delays in your shipment.
Customer Service and Order Handling
Identifying and purchasing the materials needed for certain applications can be a complicated process at times. Although many aluminum distributors offer similar products and services to the market, not all of them are equal in capabilities. An experienced aluminum service center can provide you with outstanding customer service when it comes to handling orders and correcting any issues that may arise with orders or shipments.
Transparent Product Ordering System
An aluminum service center that is trustworthy and experienced will have a wealth of information tools and a well-stocked inventory of aluminum products to help you in your purchasing decision. This type of aluminum distributor can handle, confirm, and complete orders efficiently, accurately, and quickly. As the customer of a dependable aluminum service center, you should receive clear feedback about your order and exactly what you are getting from the supplier.
Damage Claim Handling
If product damage happens to occur during shipping, a reliable aluminum service center will be there with easy communication to handle your claim properly and get the issue resolved with a re-shipment.
Sawing with Precision
Another thing to consider is the precision with which aluminum suppliers can cut your order. These companies have some of the most precise saws in the industry, which ensures that your product meets even the tightest of tolerances. In the end, it is best to trust an organization that has handled these tight tolerances thousands of times in the past, rather than a metal service company that only deals with aluminum occasionally, because failing to meet these tolerances could lead to disaster.
Aluminum Product Expertise
An aluminum service center can offer you the benefit of its extensive knowledge in the metal aluminum, including its mechanical, chemical, and physical properties. In addition the supplier can handle all of the necessary precautions required for proper storage and safe shipping.
Expert aluminum service centers understand that aluminum is subject to damage from moisture in addition to the possible damage posed during shipping. This is why a seasoned supplier will keep aluminum in an environment that is dry, clean, and free from dust and other contaminants. Along with that, aluminum service centers understand that aluminum cannot be shipped with dissimilar metals, such as carbon steel without taking the necessary precautions to protect it from carbon dust.
Aluminum service centers are essential players in the supply chain for aluminum components and extrusions. The responsibility of an experienced aluminum distributor is to supply aluminum services and products to a range of industries that require specific aluminum products. If you operate in a business or industry that needs aluminum products, it is important to choose an aluminum service center you can trust to deliver exactly what you need for your applications.
A service center that focuses on aluminum products and extrusions can help ensure you get the finished aluminum products you need on a consistent basis.
