Sourcing quality composites from China involves several key steps to ensure both product quality and cost-effectiveness. One of the first things to consider is understanding the specifications of the composite materials required for your project. For example, carbon fiber composites used in aerospace applications must meet strict standards, such as the ASTM D3039 for tensile properties. Since China has emerged as one of the major manufacturers of composite materials in the world, options can range from fiberglass to carbon fiber and aramid to UHMWPE composites. Actually, more than 40% of composites produced in the world come from China, thus making the country a top sourcing place for high-performance products.
Among the factors that are highly critical in ensuring quality composites is the assessment of the reliability of suppliers. Companies like Geely and BYD have forged long-term relations with Chinese composite manufacturers, thanks to their ability to provide quality products at competitive prices. In the selection of suppliers, one needs to check for certifications such as ISO 9001 that ensure the manufacturer follows international standards for quality management. Besides, most of the suppliers in China will be able to provide material certificates and test reports for each batch, which will go a long way in ascertaining whether the composites meet the required specifications for strength, durability, and other performance characteristics. According to a report by the China National Chemical Fiber Industry Association in 2020, more than 80% of Chinese composite manufacturers have integrated ISO 9001 certification into their production processes.
Price is another important consideration when sourcing composites from China. The wholesale prices of such composite materials as carbon fiber may be up to 50% lower compared with Western suppliers, which significantly cuts production costs for companies. However, while the price is an important factor, it should not be the only determining factor. According to global supply chain expert David Zhang, “The lowest price is often a false economy–what matters most is the overall value, which includes product quality, reliability, and after-sales support.”
Probably the most important step is doing your due diligence on prospective suppliers. Visiting production facilities in China will give a better understanding of a company’s manufacturing process, quality control process, and production capacity. Large international companies, for example, General Electric, Boeing, conducts on site audits of Chinese suppliers, ensuring that the companies meet all the set standards. It is also possible for firms to hire third-party inspection service providers to check whether specific products meet the specifications as required before delivery. By doing this, it allows a reduction in the various risks of poor materials usage that may lead to extensive production delays or accidents.
Logistics and shipping also play the vital role in sourcing composites from China. Depending on the volume and type of composite material ordered, lead times can be anywhere from a few weeks to up to a couple of months. Therefore, this demands that businesses plan accordingly in their procurement strategy so as not to delay the production schedule. On average, composites take about 30-45 days to ship from China to the U.S., based on the shipping method. Time and money can be saved by managing the logistics efficiently.
In a nutshell, sourcing quality composites from China requires a mix of careful supplier selection, price negotiations, quality verification, and logistical planning. The businesses that can manage these steps effectively will be at an advantage as manufacturing continues to globalize. For more information on sourcing composites from China, follow this link: Composite China.