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 comes with hidden costs and is 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.

“Standard parts can make an exceptional difference.”

The savings quickly add up. 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, 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.

Conversely, 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. At norelem, for example, cost-effective locating bolts are readily available worldwide.

“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.”

norelem is one of the world’s largest suppliers of flexible standard parts, systems and components for machine and plant construction, as well as elements for measuring and testing. The company, headquartered in Markgröningen, Germany, has over 60 years of market experience and supports designers and engineers in efficiently implementing their ideas.

Ordering online is now quick and easy thanks to norelem’s web store. It features more than 100,000 line items and has 98% availability from stock. Designers can also benefit from a free CAD library for all products, in 2D and 3D.

For further information on how standard parts can benefit your product design processes, click here.  or visit www.norelem.co.uk.

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