Understanding the many supply chain options available for procuring industrial knives allows businesses to recognize suppliers that are eager and able to provide the best option for their cutting application.

The blade material, tolerances, size, and volume all play a role in determining the most efficient and effective supply chain. Industrial knife suppliers that investigate the needs of their customers and take the time to understand how the knife will be used, inventory demands, and budgetary constraints can leverage this information, their long-standing relationships, and experience to create a supply chain that best meets the needs of the customer.

For industrial cutting applications, optimal sourcing can be just as critical optimizing the design of the blade.  From in-house manufacturing to overseas procurement, the right supply chain brings an ideal mix of quality and cost-effectiveness.

If you cannot describe what you are doing as a process, you do not know what you are doing. – W. Edwards Denning

Manufacturing Blades In-House

A supplier that can manage the entire process in-house, from procuring the stock material to final finishing and shipping is the best option for some blades. It provides the most significant control over every aspect of the process and creates a single point of contact for any questions or concerns.

When the entire process is completed in a single location, customers have the confidence of knowing where their parts are made and can keep their finger on the pulse of production by visiting the manufacturing facilities, contacting sales representatives, or even working closely with engineers to make design improvements.

Industrial knives that are manufactured in-house, from start to finish, are often more costly and can require a longer schedule. For these reasons, this supply method is often utilized in specialty knife applications.

Developed in Partnership with Local Vendors

Industrial blade manufacturers and suppliers with extensive experience have a network of local partners at their disposal. Industrial knives developed in partnership with local vendors maintain the same quality as those developed in-house yet are often less expensive.

An industrial blade manufacturer may select a local vendor to apply specific finishes and coatings to the blade material, such as cryogenic coatings, brazing, and heat-treating. A local vendor may also be utilized to perform precision cuts using wire cut EDM (electrical discharge machining).

Experienced manufacturers understand the specific strengths and processes of each of their local vendors. This knowledge allows for the selection of a local vendor that provides the ideal result for the final cutting application.

Almost all quality improvement comes via simplification of design, manufacturing, layout, processes, and procedures. – Tom Peters

Purchased as a Blank from Overseas

To reduce costs, especially when ordering small quantities of large blades, a blank of the material may be procured from an overseas processor. When purchased by a reliable and experienced on-shore blade manufacturer, a blade blank is obtained in a near net finish including the placement of holes and specified hardness level. The manufacturer then applies a precision finish to the blade and ensures that it meets specifications for shape, tolerance, hardness, and coating.

This process enables the end customer to utilize a blade with a fantastic finish without incurring the costs associated with 100% in-house manufacturing. Since there is a more extended procurement schedule with this option, it is ideal for customers that can plan their inventory needs.

Supply Chain Options and Management Make a Difference

An essential element in procuring your industrial knives is to work with a supplier that has the experience and knowledge to assess your blade needs and apply the supply chain option that complements both your schedule and budgetary requirements.

Experienced blade manufacturers have long-established relationships with local vendors, overseas processors, and raw material suppliers that ensure your industrial knife needs are always being evaluated and that the best supply chain option is always utilized.