contract manufacturing

Why Mexico is the Ideal Destination for Contract Manufacturing

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Contract Manufacturing.

Mexico has quickly become a destination for a foreign companies looking to contract manufacturing services. The country’s location, skilled workforce, and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal destination for businesses looking to expand their production capabilities.

In this blog, we’ll explore why Mexico is the ideal destination for contract manufacturing, focusing on the cost savings associated with contract manufacturing companies in Mexico.

Benefits of working with a Mexican Contract Manufacturer

Unlike other foreign companies, Mexico’s location makes it an ideal hub for businesses looking to expand their reach in the North American market.

The country shares a border with the United States and has access to both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, making it a strategic location for access to raw materials and businesses looking to distribute their products throughout the continent.

Additionally, Mexico has a robust transportation network, including ports, airports, and railroads, which facilitate the efficient movement of goods across the country and beyond.

Access to a Skilled Labor Force

Mexico boasts a well-educated and skilled workforce, with a particular emphasis on manufacturing.

According to the World Economic Forum, Mexico is ranked as the 14th most significant country in terms of manufacturing competitiveness, and the country has a large pool of engineering graduates with applicable skills to manufacturing operations. This abundance of skilled manufacturing labor is beneficial for businesses looking to contract manufacturing services as they can leverage this talent pool to ensure high-quality production output.

The Cost Savings associated with Contract Manufacturing Companies in Mexico

One of the most significant advantages of contracting manufacturing companies in Mexico is the lower labor costs it provides.

Mexico’s low labor costs and favorable exchange rates make it an attractive option for businesses looking to reduce their manufacturing costs. Additionally, Mexico’s proximity to the United States means that transportation costs are significantly lower than sourcing from countries located further away, reducing shipping costs and transit times.

Supply Chain and Legal Benefits of Contract Manufacturing in Mexico

While other foreign manufacturers are in flux with the legalities of supply chain transport into the US, the Mexican government has implemented various programs to promote foreign investment in the country, including tax incentives and free trade agreements with more than 40 countries.

These programs can result in substantial cost savings for businesses that begin manufacturing in Mexico.

Look to Mexico for your next Contract Manufacturer

Mexico is the ideal destination for businesses looking for a contract manufacturing partner.

The country’s location, skilled workforce, and cost-effectiveness make it an attractive option for businesses looking to expand their manufacturing operations. With the added benefit of cost savings, it’s easy to see why Mexico is quickly becoming a preferred location for businesses seeking to contract manufacturing services.

BF&S Contract Manufacturers

BF&S Mexican contract manufacturing delivers on unparalleled attention to detail and delivery from concept to completion.

BF&S is a shelter company with full shelter services, clients have full control of their quality and production. Clients benefit from the experience of the BF&S staff and their knowledge of the local market; eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S customers can initiate operations quickly without establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

The Rise of Mexico as a Global Leader in Contract Manufacturing

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in General.

Today, Mexico is a global leader in contract manufacturing due to its industrious and skilled labor force, well-developed infrastructure, and lower labor costs. These factors, in particular, have made it an ideal location for companies to produce many products on a large scale.

contract manufacturing

First, its low labor costs and skilled workforce in everything from producing medical devices to parts for the automotive industry make it an attractive location for companies that want to reduce their operational costs while maintaining high-quality control.

Second, Mexico’s favorable regulatory environment allows foreign companies to operate with little fear of government interference or red tape.

In short, Mexico’s journey to becoming a global contract manufacturing leader is a testament to its ability to adapt and maintain competitiveness in today’s global economy.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the growth of Mexico’s manufacturing sector and how it became the leading choice for global business manufacturing operations.

Advantages: Why Are Global Companies Manufacturing in Mexico?

Global companies are manufacturing in Mexico for a variety of reasons. First, the labor cost is very low in Mexico, making it an attractive location for manufacturing and secure enough for foreign direct investment.

The country’s reliable supply chain and skilled labor force make it an ideal place to produce products from the automotive to the electronics industry.

The History of Mexico Manufacturing

A few significant factors in the development of Mexico as a leader in manufacturing include favorable free trade agreements and a more reliable global supply chain, all while keeping operating costs low.

Mexico also has abundant raw materials, such as mineral deposits, oil, and fuel, making it an ideal factory location.

Favorable Government Policy

contract manufacturing

Implementing favorable government policies has proven to be extremely influential in the growth of the Mexican manufacturing sector. These have included policies related to tax breaks, tariffs on imported goods, and subsidies for domestic manufacturers that help to encourage companies to set up shop in the Mexican economy.

Additionally, government policies can influence the types of products manufactured in a region. For example, some countries may prioritize specific industries over others (e.g., electronics vs. food products). This may influence which technologies are developed and used in factories.

Global trends have also played a significant role in shaping manufacturing in Mexico. Rapid economic growth and technological advancements have led to increased demand for consumer goods and processed products. This has driven the growth of many industries, including chemical manufacturing, metal processing, and textile production.

In short, manufacturing in Mexico has evolved through several factors, including natural resources and labor availability, as well as government policies and global trends.

Manufacturing with Shelter Services

Manufacturing with shelter services is a process in which products and services are created under controlled and safe conditions. This process can produce various products, such as food, clothing, building materials, and medical supplies. Manufacturing with shelter services can also be used to produce fuels, chemicals, and other materials that are essential for everyday life.

With the rise of advanced technologies, manufacturing through a shelter company has become more efficient and cost-effective, allowing companies to produce high-quality products at affordable prices.

Because many manufacturing processes require skilled workers with specific skills and knowledge, manufacturing with a shelter company has the added benefit of helping to drive the local economy by providing jobs for people looking to advance their careers.

Contract Manufacturing in Mexico

contract manufacturing

Mexico’s manufacturing industry is known for its high-quality products and efficient production methods. One of the main factors contributing to Mexico’s success in the manufacturing sector is its strong network of contract manufacturing companies.

These companies provide a platform for businesses of all sizes to outsource certain manufacturing tasks, such as tooling, testing, and packaging, all while retaining control over the final product. This allows businesses to scale their operations efficiently while maintaining control over their products’ quality.

Manufacturing in Mexico vs. China

Both Mexico and China have extensive manufacturing sectors that produce goods on a large scale and in both countries, manufacturing is an important source of employment and economic output.

However, there are also some key differences between the two nations. One major difference is that Mexico already had a more established industrial infrastructure than China did during its industrialization, including well-developed transportation networks, skilled labor pools, and advanced manufacturing technologies. By contrast, China had to develop these capabilities from scratch, making it a long road to high manufacturing productivity and efficiency levels.

Another key difference is the political environment in each country. In Mexico, the government plays a more active role in supporting the manufacturing and promoting industrial development. The government in China, on the other hand, has tended to focus on economic growth and market-oriented policies, resulting in less consistent support for manufacturing initiatives.

Overall, while both countries have developed their manufacturing sectors successfully, some key differences between Mexico and China may influence the trajectory of their respective industries.

Proximity to the US

An essential factor contributing to Mexico’s success in the manufacturing sector is its centrally located position between North America and South America. Working with a foreign company that’s not so far from home allows for quick delivery and distribution of goods across multiple markets.

Its close proximity to other major economies in the region also makes it easy for companies to source components and materials from other countries, further reducing costs and increasing efficiency in their supply chains.

BF&S Contract Manufacturers

contract manufacturing

BF&S Mexican contract manufacturing delivers unparalleled attention to detail and delivery from concept to completion. With BF&S’ full shelter services, clients can control their quality and production. Clients benefit from the experience of the BF&S staff, as well as their knowledge of the local market, eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S customers can initiate operations quickly without establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Manufacturer VS Contract Manufacturer

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Manufacturing.

manufacturing facility

What’s the difference between working with a traditional manufacturer through private label manufacturing versus a contract manufacturer? Private label manufacturing refers to taking an existing product from a manufacturing facility and applying a company’s brand name to it.

On the other hand, contract manufacturing allows a company more control over the end product. While working under a private label leaves no room for adjustments to the product, working with a contract manufacturer lends itself to more personalization and control over the course of production.

What is Included in Contract Manufacturing Services?

In contract manufacturing, a company can utilize a third-party manufacturer to be involved in the production process as little or as much as they see fit. From choosing the raw materials to having the final say on design, companies utilizing contract manufacturing can participate in every aspect of product development.

While private label products may seem like the easier choice, private labeling often comes with a higher price tag than working with a contract manufacturer in which the company controls the costs of materials purchased and overall product quality.

What is it like to Work with Contract Manufacturers in Mexico?

manufacturers vs contract manufacturers

With increasing supply chains, intellectual property, and trade agreement issues, more companies are looking outside China to fulfill their manufacturing needs. Thankfully, Mexico offers a preferred alternative with competitive labor costs closer to home. Mexico has preferable trade agreements with the United States and has been focused on training its labor force in the advanced skills necessary to excel in the manufacturing industry.

Working with a manufacturer in Mexico on a contract basis allows a company to take advantage of the benefits of outsourcing without the risks of Chinese manufacturing. Much like working with a hiring firm, contracting with a manufacturer allows you to get the best people for your specific project, all while maintaining total control over the final product.

Contract manufacturing with a trusted outside company is an excellent option for a company aiming to scale its product and serve multiple customers.

People Also Ask:

What is Toll Manufacturing?

Toll manufacturing is the outsourcing of all or part of a production to a third-party company where the hiring company provides all the raw materials or semi-finished products. 

What Does a Contract Manufacturer do?

In short, contract manufacturers create, manufacture, and assemble products for other companies.

What is the Advantage of Using a Contract Manufacturer?

As discussed above, the advantage of using a contract manufacturer is maintaining control over production while enjoying the benefits of outsourcing, including stability and budget adherence.

BF&S Contract Manufacturers

Manufacturer vs Contract Manufacturer

BF&S Mexican contract manufacturing delivers unparalleled attention to detail and delivery from concept to completion. With BF&S’ complete shelter services, clients fully control their quality and production. Clients benefit from the experience of the BF&S staff, as well as their knowledge of the local market, eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S customers can initiate operations quickly without establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Industrial Manufacturing

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in General.

industrial manufacturing

The industrial manufacturing industry is responsible for fabricating products used in large-scale manufacturing processes. Since the advancements of the industrial revolution, industrial manufacturing facilities have made mass manufacturing possible.

New technologies in industrial manufacturing are responsible for producing various products from raw materials, including everything from huge industrial machine tools to simple household items.

Capabilities of the Manufacturing Sector

Converting raw materials into useful machines, tools, and products is a cornerstone of the economy. Without it, no mass-produced object would be readily available to the masses. Supply chains would grind to a halt, many business models would cease to exist, and life as we know it would be impossible.

However, business and production opportunities still abound, thanks to the manufacturing sector. Industrial manufacturing, in particular, often refers to the manufacturing of manufacturing machines. Rather than manufacturing a product to buy in stores, industrial manufacturing deals with creating machines to manufacture the goods.

Manufacturing Industrial Equipment

Industrial equipment supports the manufacturing of goods for sale by a company.

Examples of industrial manufacturing equipment include:

  • Machinery
  • Tools
  • Materials
  • Personnel equipment
  • Factories or plants

Industrial Manufacturing Companies: Offshore vs Nearshore

off shore manufacturing

You may be familiar with the idea of “offshore manufacturing”, where in companies save money by manufacturing goods outside of the country where labor and material costs may be cheaper. Many developed countries are used to importing goods from China, for example.

However, recent supply chain issues, rising shipping costs, and concerns around intellectual property security have left many US companies searching for an alternative. Enter: nearshore manufacturing.

Nearshore manufacturing is when a business expands manufacturing to a nearby country, usually sharing a border with the business’s home country. This allows for better communication through shared language and similar time zones, lower shipping costs, more beneficial trade agreements, and greater security around intellectual property, all while still enjoying a lower manufacturing cost.

BF&S Contract Manufacturers for the Industrial Manufacturing Industry

BF&S Mexican contract manufacturing delivers on unparalleled attention to detail and delivery from concept to completion. With BF&S’ full shelter services, clients have full control of their quality and production. Clients benefit from the experience of the BF&S staff, as well as their knowledge of the local market; eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S customers can initiate operations quickly without establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Other Industries We Serve:

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Medical Device Manufacturing

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Manufacturing, Medical Device Manufacturing.

medical device manufacturing

The medical device manufacturing industry covers the production of implants, surgical instruments, and equipment intended for therapeutics, monitoring and diagnostics.

These include reconstructive devices such as hip replacements and spinal devices, hearing aids, implantable monitors for cardiovascular devices, diabetic care, and a broad range of other devices.

Medical Device Manufacturing

Medical device manufacturing includes all aspects of the fabrication of a medical device, from designing manufacturing processes, to proof of concept, to the ability to upscale good manufacturing practices.

Quality systems are required every step of the way to ensure product quality and reliability in the medical field, including the ability to manufacture medical devices according to FDA regulations.

New technologies, such as 3D printing and additive manufacturing, have allowed for the creation of lighter, more complex designs. Specializing in machines for the additive manufacturing of metal parts.

The Process of Manufacturing Medical Devices with BF&S

medical items manufacturing

The medical device manufacturing process requires specific stages to be followed to ensure design control so that the product is both effective and safe for use. As a result, this covers the entire product development cycle, from medical device design to clinical trials, and premarket approval to manufacture.

Our integrated approach ensures unmatched, ultrafine precision and an end-to-end quality control system from start to finish. Streamlined medical manufacturing opens your doors for innovation without limits.

Gone are the days of worrying about dealing with the Chinese government. BF&S offers nearshore, full manufacturing services. We meet all standards and are ready to discuss your next manufacturing project. Our employees are highly skilled and our quality control is exceptional. additive manufacturing

BF&S Contract Manufacturers for the Medical Device Industry

medical equipment manufacturing

BF&S delivers on unparalleled attention to detail and delivery from concept to completion. With BF&S’ full shelter services, clients have full control of their quality and production. Clients benefit from the experience of the BF&S staff, as well as their knowledge of the local market; eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S customers are able to initiate operations quickly without actually establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Other Industries We Serve:

  • Aerospace Manufacturing
  • Industrial Manufacturing
  • Military Manufacturing

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Aerospace Manufacturing

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Aerospace, Aerospace Manufacturing.

aerospace manufacturing

An aerospace manufacturer is a company or individual involved in manufacturing, designing, building, testing, selling, and maintaining aircraft, aerospace components, missiles, rockets, spacecraft, or commercial aircraft.

Aerospace is a high-technology industry requiring a trusted partner and reliable supply chain connection in contract manufacturing.

Aerospace Industry Needs

The next generation of aerospace manufacturing requires connections with a variety of diverse suppliers. The biggest names in the aerospace industry, including Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, understand the need for a dependable, streamlined process of many industries working together to produce the ideal product.

airplane maintenance

To become part of the aerospace industry, companies must attain several aerospace-specific certifications that attest to stringent quality management and direct supervision at every level of the manufacturing process.

It is the job of manufacturing companies to provide the systems and processes necessary to complete a variety of jobs to the standards of the aerospace industry.

Metal Additive Manufacturing

aircraft CAD

Metal additive manufacturing is a process that uses fine metal powders to create strong, complex components that are designed either by using a computer-aided design (CAD) program or by taking a 3D scan of the object.

The potential benefits of metal additive manufacturing in aerospace applications include:

  • significant cost and lead-time reductions
  • novel materials and unique design solutions
  • mass reduction of components through highly efficient and lightweight designs
  • consolidation of multiple components for performance enhancement

Manufacturing for Aerospace Industries

Finding trusted manufacturing can often prove challenging for aerospace industries. Aircraft parts are extraordinarily complex and need to be structurally sound and meet almost any industry’s highest quality assurance standards.

To reduce costs and overcome traditional manufacturing challenges, many aerospace companies are turning from conventional manufacturing processes to additive manufacturing to efficiently produce the complex parts they need. 

BF&S Contract Manufacturing for Aerospace Companies

BF&S delivers on unparalleled attention to detail and delivery from concept to completion. With BF&S’ full shelter services, clients have full control of their quality and production. Clients benefit from the experience of the BF&S staff, as well as their knowledge of the local market; eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S customers can initiate operations quickly without establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Manufacturing with Shelter Service Companies

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in General.

What are Shelter Companies?

third part supplier through shelter service company

A shelter company is a third-party supplier that provides real estate and other resources to complete a project. At the same time, the hiring party retains full control.

Through a Mexican government-supported shelter program, companies do not have to pay income tax in Mexico for four years, while the Mexican shelter company “shelters” the foreign company with a manufacturing facility, raw materials, and more.

Licensing

When a Mexican company is there to offer shelter services, they will secure licenses and permits needed to operate in place, allowing production to commence much faster.

Most companies that operate under a shelter contract manufacturing can be up and running in Mexico in just 3-6 months.

What Shelter Services are offered?

Besides obtaining licensing and permits, manufacturing communities offer various service needs. Shelter companies in Mexico provide administrative services such as HR and accounting, advisors to deal with Mexican legalities, and all the core manufacturing functions needed to carry out the manufacturing operation.

Risk & Liability

When working with a shelter company, the provider assumes much legal risk and liability. It is up to the shelter company to ensure all compliance measures are being met and that rules and regulations are being carried out appropriately.

Services offered by Shelter Companies in Mexico include:

  • Human resources and recruiting
  • Employee payroll and benefits administration
  • Customs management and import/export administration
  • Tax and fiscal compliance issues
  • Environmental and occupational health and safety
  • Purchasing negotiations and vendor relationships
  • Facilities management and real estate

The benefits of working with a Shelter Company

Access to a skilled workforce

Skilled labor, is defined as at least five years in an industry-specific role, is plentiful in Mexico. In recent years, Mexico has made it a priority to provide exceptional service to manufacturing companies. As a result, the Mexican workforce is filled with highly skilled workers who bring value to operations.

Room to grow

human resource management

A growing business means a growing output of products, but it also requires growth behind the scenes to hire more employees, organize larger-scale accounting, and more. When working with Mexico shelter companies, all of these areas are accounted for. The right shelter service provider is there to help keep up with the growth of your business.

Lower Costs

The Mexican government views the shelter manufacturing model very favorably, benefiting the Mexican economy. Companies operating under the shelter service model are rewarded through income, consumption, and import/export tax incentives.

Doing Business with Foreign Companies

mexica shelter service company

In recent years, China has been the hub for manufacturing outside the United States. Still, many businesses have been looking for an alternative closer to home with various growing issues, including cost and supply chain.

Manufacturing with Mexico shelter services offers foreign companies tax advantages, cost savings, and a skilled industrial workforce to support their manufacturing operations. There are several options available when setting up a new operation in Mexico. However, working with a shelter program is one of the most cost-effective, efficient, and safest ways to save on everything from janitorial and security costs to logistics and customs fees while completing a project.

Shelter Manufacturing with BF&S

shelter company

BF&S’ full shelter services allow our clients to have full control of their quality and production. Clients benefit from our experience and knowledge of the local market, eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

Our customers can initiate operations quickly without actually establishing a legal presence in Mexico. BF&S “shelters” our customers from many risks and liabilities.

BF&S performs these tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect their profitability and growth.

Learn more by continuing to explore our website.

Platter Slip Rings

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Platter Slip Rings.

Platter Slip Rings

What is a Slip Ring?

A slip ring is an electromechanical device that allows the transmission of power and electrical signals from a stationary to a rotating structure.

A slip ring is a method of making electrical contact to form rotating assembly. It is an electric transmission device that allows energy flow between two electrical rotating parts, such as in a motor.

When are Slip Rings the Right Solution?

A slip ring is the ideal solution for any electromechanical system that requires rotation while transmitting power or signals. Slip rings are used in virtually any application that includes a rotating base or platform. They can improve mechanical performance, simplify system operation and eliminate damage-prone wires dangling from movable joints.

Slip Rings in Motors

Slip rings can also be used to created desired resistance. In the case of AC (alternating current) motors, for example, slip rings do not transfer power but create tension. By creating resistance in rotor wirings, mounted to but insulated from the rotor shaft.

Adding the desired resistance to rotor windings helps to match the rotor current with the stator current. The result is higher torque, even with a relatively low current.

Minimum Amount of Current Needed

Platter Slip Rings used in cpu

The design and bore size of a slip ring will depend on its application. A more advanced design might be required to complete the request of transmitting data, for example.

The case of data transmission requires a slip ring with higher bandwidth and better EMI contact mitigation than one that transmits power services exclusively.

 Regardless of intended use, the basic details are mounted in much the same way. Once the customer has made the intended use clear, the proper slip ring application will become apparent.

Types of Slip Rings

Pancake Slip Ring

In a pancake slip ring, conductors are arranged on a pancake-like disk. Pancake slip rings are specially designed for applications with limited space.

Mercury Contact Slip Ring

Mercury contact is used for conducting. This allows the transfer of currents and electrical signals via the liquid metal.

Durability, stability, and quiet operation make mercury contact slip rings and efficient choice.

Wireless Slip Ring

A wireless slip rings allows for the transfer data and power wirelessly using an electromagnetic field.

The wireless slip ring reduces mechanical contacts and maintenance, making it well suited to harsher environments and use.

Through Hole Slip Ring

A slip ring with a hole in the center. This kind of slip ring is used in rotating devices that need to transmit a signal.

A through hole slip ring includes the benefits of longevity and quiet operation.

Slip Ring Manufacturer Near Me

Looking for custom slip ring solutions without having to depend on a far away country to send one in the mail? BF&S slip rings are manufactured in Mexico and made specifically for your installation.

Our proximity to the US means no more waiting on a document from half way across the world in order to receive the customization and service you need.

Platter Slip Rings manufacturing

Slip Ring Manufacturing with BF&S

At BF&S Manufacturing, the customer is our number one priority. We offer manufacturing and assembly from start to finish, and are able to serve our clientele best by paying attention to detail and machine efficiency to cover a variety of client preference and specifications.

BF&S Manufacturing is currently supplying slip ring manufacturing and installation to our clients.  All of our products are manufactured and tested in compliance with industry standards, making BF&S Manufacturing your home for custom slip rings with superior quality and standards you can trust.

BF&S Manufacturing Contractors

Founded in 1988, BF&S has decades of experience manufacturing in Mexico, with over 500 employees in the state of Sonora. Our warehousing and corporate offices are located in Douglas and we are incorporated in the state of Arizona.

The BF&S executive team was born and raised in the United States, and run our organization with U.S management standards and practices. We invite you to learn more by continuing to explore our website.

What is Plating?

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Plating.

metal plating machine

Plating is a manufacturing process in which a thin layer of metal coats an underlying substance. This can be achieved through electroplating, which requires an electric current, or through electroless plating, which is in autocatalytic chemical process.

Metal plating has been used for hundreds of years and is a critical part of corrosion resistance. The reasons for metal plating include:

  • Corrosion resistance.
  • Improved paint adhesion
  • To harden the surface
  • Improves the look of cheaper metals in jewelry
  • Reduce friction
  • Improve the wearability of the part
  • Alter conductivity (more or less conductive)
  • Acts as a shield against radiation

Nickel Plating

nickel plating

Nickel plating provides a unique combination of corrosion and wears resistance. It can add brightness, luster, and appeal. It also provides excellent adhesion properties for subsequent coating layers as nickel plates commonly bond well with other materials, which is why nickel is often used as an ‘undercoat’ for other coatings, such as chromium.

Nickel Plating is widely used, pointing to its beneficial properties and versatility as a coating material.

Gold Plating

Often seen in jewelry, gold plating refers to a method of coating the surface of a metal (which is mostly silver or copper) with a thin layer of gold. Some other metals gilded with gold are stainless steel, nickel, brass, titanium, and tungsten.

Not all gold plating is created equal. Which base metal is used, the application skill, and the thickness of the coating all determine different looks and quality.

Silver Plating

Silver electroplating is one of the oldest plating processes. Silver plating uses date back to the beginning of coinage and metal smithing. Silver is the least expensive precious metal, is actually harder than gold, and is very conductive.

Known for its hardness and corrosion resistance, silver plating exhibits excellent anti-galling properties, high lubricity, a wide operating temperature range, good corrosion resistance, and exceptional conductivity.

Copper Plating

copper wire

The copper plating processes are one of the best for electrical conductors. As copper is a soft metal, it can be applied to metal parts that require some flexibility, which is why it is often found in wiring.

In the process of copper plating, copper sulfate acts as an electrolyte, copper wire dipped in electrolyte works as an anode and an iron rod to be plated is dipped in electrolyte and connected externally as a cathode.

When gold plating copper, the copper is usually plated with nickel before being plated with gold, as the copper may otherwise migrate into the gold over time.

What is Cadmium Plating?

Cadmium plating is a metallic silver, soft coating that can be deposited on various base materials such as steel, copper, iron, brass, and aluminum. It is prized for its corrosion resistance, lubricity, chemical resistance, ductility, and ease of solderability.

Other plating metal processes include zinc plating, chrome plating, and tin plating, all of which are commonly used to improve oxidation and electrical conductivity.

Kinds of Plating Processes

1.) Electroplating

Electroplating is the most common method of plating. Electroplating uses an electrical current to dissolve positively charged metal particles (ions) in a chemical solution. The positively charged metal ions are attracted to the material to be plated, which is the negatively charged side of the circuit. The part or product to be plated is then placed in this solution, and the dissolved metal particles are drawn to the material’s surface. Electroplating results in a smooth, even, and rapid coating for the material that is plated, effectively changing the material’s surface. There are a number of different steps and processes that can be involved in electroplating, including cleaning, striking, electrochemical deposition, pulse electroplating, and brush electroplating.

Electroplating forms a protective barrier against atmospheric conditions such as corrosion. It can also enhance the heat resistance and make the piece stronger against impacts and shocks if the underlying metal is brittle.

Electroplating helps to reduce friction by allowing components to slide more easily across adjacent surfaces, without heating or scraping. Proper plating increases efficiency and decreases premature wear and tear.  

Electroplating is becoming an extremely common preference in manufacturing processes where extreme thickness is required. The thicker the coating is the more durable and wear and tear resistant it is, meaning it can last longer. It enhances the overall consistency and improves the substrate’s durability.

2.) Electroless (Autocatalytic) Plating

Electroless plating is so called because it is a plating method that does not use external electric power. This common electroless plating method involves a chemical reaction that induces metal atom reduction. In other words, the solution of metal ions (particles) when mixed with a reducing agent is converted into a metal solid when they come in contact with the catalyzing metal (which triggers the reaction). This results in the metal being plated with a solid layer of the plating metal.

Advantages of electroless plating include:

Advantages of Electroless Nickel Plating

  • Excellent wear and abrasion resistance
  • Good ductility, lubricity and electrical properties
  • High hardness, especially when heat-treated
  • Good solderability
  • Even and uniform thickness even down deep bores and recesses, and at corners and edges
  • The coating can be applied as the final production operation and can meet stringent dimensional tolerances
  • Can be used on both metallic and non-metallic substrates, provided they have been suitably pre-treated

3.) Immersion Plating

Immersion plating involves immersing one metal into a solution of metal ions from a more noble metal. The ions from the nobler metal are more stable, and so there is a natural ‘pull’ to displace the surface metal ions from the less noble metal with a thin layer of the nobler metal ions. Immersion plating is a slower process, and can only be used for plating less noble metals with nobler metals. Nobler metals are chemically inert metals. For example gold, platinum, or silver.

Immersion plating is distinct from various electroplating processes in the sense that there is no presence of external current. Unlike with electro-less plating, the deposition of metals is halted once the plated object is completely coated with metals of higher nobility. This type of plating occurs at high temperatures.

Immersion plating benefits include:

  • Wear and corrosion resistance
  • Electrical resistance
  • Electrical conductivity
  • Appearance and reflectivity
  • Chemical resistance and hardness
  • Torque tolerance
  • Bonding capabilities

The Difference a Thin Layer Can Make

steel grating

Plating adds efficiency and durability to any manufacturing process. At BF&S Manufacturing, we offer turnkey solutions to supply everything your business needs for proper plating processing to occur.

BF&S’ shelter services allow our clients to have full control of their quality and production, benefiting from our experience and knowledge of the local market, and eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets. BF&S performs the tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, thus allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect the profitability and growth.

To learn more, please continue exploring our website.

Computerized Manufacturing

Written by bfsmanu on . Posted in Computerized Manufacturing.

Computerized manufacturing refers to the dynamic future of computer aided design and manufacturing. Often referred to as CNC, computerized manufacturing and machining plays a vital role in the evolving world of modern manufacturing. But what is CNC, exactly? How does it play a role in the manufacturing industry, and what do CNC machinists do? How can you find the right CNC machinists who have taken the time to gain job ready skills fit for the world of CNC machining today?

What is Computer Integrated Manufacturing?

CNC or Computer Numerical Control machines are automated machines operated by computers executing a pre-written program. Today’s modern CNC machines help to replace the need for workers dealing directly with dangerous equipment by manufacturing a system that understands computer code, which can be written to produce precise measurements for production, like feed rate, speed, location, and coordination.

Computer Aided Drafting Techniques

Computer-aided design and drafting systems have increased design and drafting productivity. This aspect of computerized manufacturing takes work that is traditionally done by manual drawings using pencil or ink and upgrades it to a sophisticated software.

Computer Aided Process Planning

Computer-aided process planning, or CAPP, involves using computer technology for designing physical products. It goes along with things like computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing such as CNC mentioned above, but computer-aided process planning focuses on industrial processes.

Finding the Right Operators

In order to be competent and gain knowledge about CNC technologies, machinists must first be students willing to complete two years of quality education in the field. CNC machinists require additional information and skills compared to manual machine operators, and a proficiency should be established before hiring.

CNC Machining with BF&S

At BF&S, we offer a turn-key solution to supply quality manufacturing products, like CNC machining and much more, to our customers.

BF&S’ shelter services allow our clients to have full control of their quality and production, benefiting from our experience and knowledge of the local market, and eliminating the need to make sizable investments in physical and human assets.

BF&S performs the tasks and functions that are not core to the manufacturing process, thus allowing our clients to focus on those areas that affect profitability and growth.

To learn more, please continue exploring our website.

BF&S, Inc.

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