I. Process Selection and Comparison
Q: Of the three processes, which coupler/fastener is the strongest and safest?
A: Forging offers the highest strength and safety. Its metal fibers are streamlined and continuous, capable of withstanding greater impact and fatigue loads, making it the preferred choice for heavy-duty and high-risk projects.
Q: Why are stamped couplers generally the most competitively priced?
A: Because stamping offers a high degree of automation, fast production speeds, and high material utilization, making it suitable for large-scale production, resulting in the lowest unit cost.
Q: When should you choose a cast coupler?
A: Casting is ideal when you need a complex, one-piece, specialized connector (such as a dedicated node for a system scaffolding) and are less weight-sensitive.
Q: How can you quickly and visually distinguish couplers made from these three processes?
A: Forgings have a noticeable flash line; stampings have a smooth surface with mold seams; and castings have a relatively rough surface and may have sprue marks.
II. Quality and Performance
Q: Are there risks of internal defects in cast couplers?
A: Yes, the casting process can produce internal defects such as pores and sand holes. Therefore, it is important to select a qualified manufacturer and require them to provide a non-destructive testing (NDT) report.
Q: What are the specific performance advantages of your forged couplers?
A: Compared to other processes, our forged couplers offer over 20% higher tensile strength, over 30% longer fatigue life, and can pass more stringent safety factor tests (such as the 4:1 load test).
Q: Will stamped couplers loosen after repeated use?
A: High-quality stamped parts are designed with this in mind. Using high-strength steel and anti-corrosion treatments (such as galvanizing), their durability under rated loads and normal use can meet the requirements of most general projects.
III. Certification and Compliance
Q: Can products made using any of these three processes be CE certified?
A: Yes! CE certification focuses on product performance, not workmanship. As long as the product passes all tests specified in the EN 74-1 standard (strength, stiffness, fatigue, etc.), CE certification is available regardless of the process used.
Q: What certification is required for the Australian market?
A: All couplers entering the Australian market must comply with AS/NZS 1576.2. We hold this certification for all three process types.
IV. Procurement and Business
Q: What are the differences in minimum order quantities (MOQs) for the three process types?
A: Stampings have the highest MOQ (usually per container) because they have lower tooling costs and are suitable for large-scale production. Forging and castings offer flexible MOQs and can accommodate smaller orders.
Q: Can you provide customized couplers? Which process is most suitable?
A: Yes. Casting is best for complex custom shapes; forging is suitable for high-strength customization with minor modifications to existing tooling; and stamping is suitable for large-scale customization of standard parts.
Q: What are your payment methods? We prefer payment by contract (LC).
A: We accept T/T and LC at sight. New customers typically require a 30% deposit for their first order, with the balance due before shipment.
V. Service and After-Sales
Q: Can you provide third-party inspection reports (such as SGS, TUV)?
A: Of course. We routinely collaborate with organizations like SGS and TUV for product testing and factory inspections, and can provide relevant reports upon request.
Q: What is the typical delivery time?
A: For standard products: Stampings are available in stock and are the fastest. Forged/cast parts typically take 15-25 days to produce. Custom products require an additional 5-10 days.
Q: What if a product has a quality issue upon arrival?
A: We offer a comprehensive quality guarantee. Once we receive your evidence (photos/videos) and verify that the issue is our fault, we will promptly resend the product free of charge or provide compensation according to the terms of the contract.
