The reasons why the price of brass raw materials has a significant impact on the cost of custom-processed parts can be analyzed from the following key points: 1. The proportion of raw material costs is high The cost of brass materials usually accounts for 30% to 70% of the total cost of custom parts (depending on the complexity of the process), especially in low-batch orders. For instance, the material cost for processing a brass gear may account for 50% of the quoted price, while in mass production, the proportion of equipment depreciation and labor costs will increase. 2. International metal price Linkage mechanism For every 1% fluctuation in copper prices on the London Metal Exchange (LME), it leads to a change of approximately 0.6-0.8% in the cost of brass materials. In 2023, the copper price rose from $8,000 per ton to $9,500 per ton, directly pushing up the price of brass bars by 18%, resulting in an increase of 1,200 yuan per ton in the material cost of a certain batch of custom valve parts. 3. Economic levers for waste recycling In precision machining, the material utilization rate is usually 60-85%, and the recycling value of the remaining chips is affected by the price of scrap copper on that day. When the purchase price of scrap copper dropped from 45 yuan per kilogram to 38 yuan per kilogram, the revenue per ton of processing waste decreased by 7,000 yuan, which is equivalent to an increase of 7% in hidden costs. 4. The price transmission cycle of the supply chain Processing plants usually quote based on "material cost + processing fee", but the spot price of brass fluctuates by 0.5-1.2% every day. For orders delivered three months later, if no hedging is carried out, the risk of material price fluctuations shall be borne entirely by the processing party. 5. Special cost structure for customized production The proportion of material preparation costs for small-batch orders (such as less than 100 pieces) is higher: The material cutting loss rate increases by 5-8% Minimum purchase quantity limit (if a whole 6-meter copper rod must be purchased) Additional purchase of special alloys (such as leaded brass which needs to be melted separately) 6. Rigidity limitations of alternative materials In specific fields such as bathrooms and ships, the corrosion resistance of brass is irreplaceable. When the price of materials increases by 20%, the choice flexibility of custom customers is almost zero, and they can only accept cost passing. In contrast, zinc alloys can be used for applications such as electronic product casings, but their performance will be compromised. The cumulative effect of these factors makes the price of brass raw materials a core variable in the cost of custom processing. Experience shows that when the monthly fluctuation of copper prices exceeds 8%, processing enterprises usually need to activate the price adjustment mechanism; otherwise, they will face the risk of profit erosion. For the purchaser, choosing suppliers that adopt futures hedging or accepting the floating quotation clause is an effective strategy to deal with this risk.

Recently, a delegation from a well-known Australian company made a special visit to China to conduct on-site inspections and technical exchanges with Selection Hardware factory, a strategic partner that has been cooperating for more than ten years. This trip is not only a "trust visit" to long-term partners, but also focuses on the upgrading of precision CNC machining projects jointly promoted by both parties, marking a higher level of cross-border industrial chain cooperation. 1、 Entering the Intelligent Manufacturing Base: Witnessing the Hard Core Strength of 70+CNC Machines Accompanied by the General Manager and Technical Team of Selection Hardware, the Australian client went deep into the front line of the workshop and closely observed the core production area of the factory. As a senior enterprise with over 20 years of experience in the field of CNC machining, Selection Hardware currently has more than 70 advanced CNC machining equipment, covering three-axis, four axis, and five axis linkage CNC machine tools, which can meet the precision machining needs of various materials such as aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and titanium alloy. Since the first batch of order cooperation, the equipment scale and technological iteration speed of Selection Hardware have far exceeded our expectations. The Australian customer representative sighed during the visit. In the workshop, the seamless connection between the automated robotic arm and the digital management system, strict process control, and the skilled operation of the technical personnel in processing complex workpieces left a deep impression on the customer. 2、 Technical Seminar: Focusing on New Breakthroughs in Precision Machining At the subsequent special meeting, both teams conducted in-depth discussions around the ongoing CNC machining project. The engineers at Selection Hardware conducted a 3D simulation demonstration and provided a detailed analysis of the process optimization plan for the customer's new product Precision Enhancement: Adopting adaptive tool path optimization technology for high tolerance requirements; Efficiency improvement: Through the design of multi process integrated fixtures, the processing time for individual pieces is greatly reduced; Cost control: Innovatively applying a certain aerospace material processing technology to civilian products, significantly reducing the loss rate. The Australian Technical Director highly praised the Selection Hardware team, stating that they not only possess the ability to quickly understand requirements, but also proactively propose innovative solutions. This' technology partnership 'collaboration is the key to our continued selection of them. " 3、 Quality cornerstone: Professional testing builds a line of trust At the quality inspection center, customers witnessed Selection Hardware's ultimate pursuit of quality. The imported CMM, laser scanner, and material spectrometer equipped in the factory establish a full process inspection system from raw material entry to finished product delivery. The testing team demonstrated the three-dimensional deviation comparison of a precision component on site, and the measured data showed a high degree of consistency with the design drawings, far exceeding industry standards. Your testing report is our 'passport' for release and storage, "said the Australian procurement manager. During years of cooperation, Selection Hardware's products have maintained a record of 'zero batch quality accidents,' which is the foundation for the continuous expansion of our cooperation. This factory trip across the northern and southern hemispheres is not only a warm moment for old friends to reunite, but also a vivid epitome of cross-border manufacturing cooperation in the era of intelligence. Amidst the roaring sound of machine tools in the Selection Hardware workshop and the intense intellectual collision between the Chinese and Australian technical teams, we can clearly see that when China's intelligent manufacturing hard power meets the strict requirements of the international market, it will inevitably give rise to a more competitive global industrial new ecology.

At the critical juncture of transformation and upgrading in the hardware industry, Selection Hardware adheres to the core concept of "respecting differences and stimulating potential". Through dynamic and humanized incentive mechanisms, it lays an exclusive growth track for each salesperson, allowing team value creation to resonate with the company's strategic transformation. 1、 From Standardization to Precision: Layered Incentives Release Individual Potential Energy Selection Hardware deeply recognizes that an excellent team needs to embrace diverse career forms. The new plan designs three differentiated incentive channels based on the salesperson's ability model, development stage, and career aspirations: Stormtrooper Channel: Focusing on market development and innovative breakthroughs, the reward mechanism is tilted towards strategic level projects and industry resource integration; Deep cultivator channel: Strengthen customer value deep operation, incentive policies are strongly related to long-term service value and ecosystem construction; Growth Channel: For employees in their career growth stage, establish a closed-loop incentive system of "training practice feedback" to accelerate their ability transition. 2、 Three dimensional value coordinates: redefining talent standards in the hardware industry Breaking through the traditional thinking of "sales are king", establish a three-dimensional evaluation model that includes expertise, collaboration, and evolution: Professional competence: not only assesses knowledge of CNC machining, casting, and sheet metal stamping, but also focuses on solution design capabilities and industry trend insights; Collaboration: Encourage cross departmental collaboration and knowledge sharing, and incorporate team empowerment into incentive calculation dimensions; Evolutionary power: Establish a special award for digital transformation to recognize contributors to tool innovation and process optimization. 3、 Temperature and sharpness coexist: creating a vibrant and stimulating ecosystem Selection Hardware will integrate "humanized design" throughout the incentive system: Dynamic care module: Matching flexible welfare packages based on employees' life stages (such as newlyweds, parenting, and further education); Long term value binding: Open partner programs for sustained high-value contributors to share the dividends of enterprise development; Spiritual honor system: Establish non-material incentive carriers such as "Industry Influence Medal" and "Customer Value Creator". 4、 The lighthouse effect of the industry: strategic implications behind incentivizing innovation This reform is not only an optimization of the salary system, but also a forward-looking response of enterprises to the talent war in the hardware industry. By establishing an incentive mechanism that promotes the symbiotic growth of individuals and businesses, Selection Hardware is achieving triple breakthroughs: Breaking the homogenization competition in the industry and shaping the attractiveness of differentiated talents; Upgrade the business team from an executor to an industry ecosystem builder; By stimulating organizational vitality, we can help enterprises transform into technology service providers. This reform, which began with a reward mechanism, may be opening up new possibilities for the organizational evolution of the traditional hardware industry.

Die casting has long been a cornerstone of the manufacturing industry, providing high-precision metal components for automotive, aerospace, electronics, and other sectors. As industries shift towards automation and smart manufacturing, die casting is undergoing significant advancements. The integration of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is transforming traditional die casting processes, making them more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable. This blog explores how automation and intelligent technologies are shaping the future of die casting.   1. The Role of Automation in Die Casting Automation has become a key driver of efficiency and consistency in die casting. From material handling to quality inspection, automated systems reduce human intervention, minimize errors, and enhance production speed.   Automated Die Casting Cells Modern die casting facilities are increasingly adopting fully automated cells that integrate: Robotic Metal Pouring: Robots handle molten metal with precision, ensuring consistent filling and reducing material waste. Automated Mold Handling: Robotics and servo-controlled systems enable fast and accurate die opening, closing, and part ejection. In-line Inspection and Quality Control: Automated vision systems and sensors inspect cast parts in real-time, identifying defects and ensuring quality standards are met before further processing.   Benefits of Automation in Die Casting ✔ Higher Efficiency: Automated processes work continuously, reducing cycle times and increasing output. ✔ Improved Safety: Reducing human exposure to molten metal and high-temperature environments minimizes workplace accidents. ✔ Better Consistency: Automated machines produce uniform parts with tighter tolerances, improving overall product quality.   2. Smart Manufacturing and Digitalization in Die Casting The rise of Industry 4.0 has paved the way for smart die casting, where digital technologies enhance monitoring, control, and decision-making.   Internet of Things (IoT) Integration Die casting machines are now equipped with IIoT-enabled sensors that collect real-time data on temperature, pressure, cycle times, and machine performance. This data is transmitted to cloud platforms for analysis, allowing manufacturers to: Predict Machine Failures: AI-driven predictive maintenance reduces downtime by identifying potential equipment issues before they occur. Optimize Process Parameters: Real-time data analytics help fine-tune injection pressure, mold temperature, and cooling time to enhance casting quality. Monitor Production in Real-Time: Remote monitoring enables plant managers to oversee operations from anywhere, improving production efficiency.   Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Die Casting AI algorithms are transforming die casting by analyzing large volumes of production data to: Detect casting defects early and suggest corrective actions. Optimize mold design to reduce material waste and improve part quality. Automate process adjustments for better energy efficiency.   Digital Twins for Process Optimization Digital twin technology is revolutionizing die casting by creating a virtual replica of the production process. This allows manufacturers to simulate different conditions, test new designs, and optimize parameters before implementing changes in real production.   3. The Future of Smart Die Casting   1. Energy-Efficient and Sustainable Manufacturing With stricter environmental regulations, the die casting industry is focusing on sustainable solutions: Energy-Efficient Furnaces: New-generation melting furnaces consume less energy and reduce CO₂ emissions. Recycled Materials: Smart sorting systems allow for the use of recycled aluminum and other metals, minimizing raw material costs and environmental impact. Closed-Loop Water Cooling Systems: Advanced cooling techniques reduce water consumption while maintaining optimal mold temperatures.   2. Hybrid Manufacturing: Die Casting + 3D Printing The combination of die casting and additive manufacturing (3D printing) is unlocking new design possibilities: Rapid Prototyping: 3D-printed molds and cores enable faster design iterations and testing before full-scale production. Complex Geometries: Hybrid manufacturing allows for the integration of intricate features that were previously difficult to achieve with traditional die casting.   3. Collaborative Robots (Cobots) in Die Casting Unlike traditional industrial robots, collaborative robots (cobots) work alongside human operators to enhance productivity: Machine Tending: Cobots assist in loading and unloading parts, reducing manual labor. Surface Finishing: Cobots polish and deburr cast parts, ensuring smooth surfaces and precise dimensions. Flexible Manufacturing: Unlike fixed automation, cobots can be easily reprogrammed for different tasks, making production more adaptable.   Conclusion: The Bright Future of Automated Die Casting The integration of automation, AI, and IoT is revolutionizing die casting, making it more efficient, precise, and sustainable. As smart manufacturing technologies continue to evolve, die casting companies that embrace digital transformation will gain a competitive edge in the global market. With advancements in robotic automation, real-time monitoring, AI-driven process optimization, and sustainable practices, the future of die casting is set to be faster, smarter, and greener than ever before. For manufacturers looking to stay ahead, investing in automated and intelligent die casting solutions is no longer an option—it’s a necessity.

Die casting is a highly efficient and precise manufacturing process used in industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to electronics and consumer goods. One of the most critical factors in ensuring high-quality die-cast components is selecting the right material. The choice of material impacts product durability, performance, cost, and manufacturability. In this blog, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing a material for die casting production.   1. Understanding Common Die Casting Materials Several metals and alloys are commonly used in die casting, each with unique properties that make them suitable for different applications. The most widely used materials include: a. Aluminum Alloys Advantages: Lightweight, high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent corrosion resistance, good thermal and electrical conductivity. Common Applications: Automotive components, aerospace parts, electronic housings, consumer goods. Popular Alloys: A380, A383, A360. b. Zinc Alloys Advantages: High ductility, excellent impact resistance, low melting point (reduces energy consumption), good surface finish. Common Applications: Precision components, hardware fittings, automotive parts, electrical connectors. Popular Alloys: Zamak 3, Zamak 5. c. Magnesium Alloys Advantages: Lightweight (lighter than aluminum), excellent machinability, good strength-to-weight ratio. Common Applications: Aerospace and automotive industries, handheld devices, and medical equipment. Popular Alloys: AZ91D, AM60B. d. Copper-Based Alloys Advantages: Excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, high corrosion resistance, strong mechanical properties. Common Applications: Electrical and plumbing components, industrial equipment. Popular Alloys: Brass, bronze.   2. Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Material Choosing the right material for die casting requires an evaluation of several critical factors: a. Strength and Durability Depending on the application, different levels of strength and durability are required. For example, automotive parts often need high strength and wear resistance, making aluminum and magnesium alloys excellent choices. b. Corrosion Resistance Parts exposed to harsh environments, such as marine or outdoor applications, require high corrosion resistance. Aluminum and copper-based alloys provide excellent protection against rust and oxidation. c. Thermal and Electrical Conductivity For applications that require heat dissipation or electrical conduction, materials like aluminum and copper are preferred. These metals are widely used in electronic enclosures, heat sinks, and electrical connectors. d. Weight Considerations For industries such as aerospace and automotive, reducing weight is essential for fuel efficiency and performance. Magnesium alloys are the lightest, followed by aluminum, making them ideal for weight-sensitive applications. e. Cost and Production Efficiency Material cost and manufacturability play a significant role in selection. Zinc has a lower melting point, leading to reduced energy consumption and faster production cycles. Aluminum and magnesium are more expensive but provide long-term performance benefits. f. Surface Finish and Post-Processing Needs Certain applications require high-quality surface finishes or additional post-processing like anodizing, painting, or plating. Zinc alloys offer excellent surface smoothness, reducing the need for extensive finishing.   3. Matching Materials to Industry Applications Different industries prioritize various properties when selecting die-casting materials. Below are some industry-specific recommendations: Automotive: Aluminum (A380) for engine blocks, transmission cases; Magnesium (AZ91D) for lightweight components. Aerospace: Magnesium alloys for weight reduction; Aluminum for structural components. Electronics: Aluminum and copper alloys for heat dissipation and conductivity. Consumer Goods: Zinc alloys for precision components with high-quality surface finish.   4. Conclusion Selecting the right material for die casting is essential for optimizing performance, cost, and manufacturability. By evaluating factors like strength, corrosion resistance, thermal properties, weight, and finishing requirements, manufacturers can make informed decisions tailored to their specific applications. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different materials ensures high-quality and cost-effective die-cast components. If you need expert advice on die casting material selection, Shenzhen Selection Hardware Technology Co., Ltd. is here to help. With years of experience in precision manufacturing, we provide high-quality custom die-casting solutions for various industries. Contact us today to discuss your project needs!

In the world of manufacturing, die casting stands out as a highly efficient method for producing complex metal parts with precision and consistency. Central to the success of this process is mold design, which plays a critical role in determining both the efficiency of production and the quality of the final product. This blog will explore why mold design is so essential in die casting and how it affects the overall outcome of manufactured components.   Why Mold Design Matters in Die Casting？ 1. Precision and Accuracy A well-designed mold ensures dimensional accuracy and consistency across all produced parts. Precise molds help maintain tight tolerances, which are essential for industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics where high precision is non-negotiable. 2. Material Flow Optimization Proper mold design optimizes the flow of molten metal during the casting process. This reduces issues such as air entrapment, cold shuts, and incomplete filling, all of which can lead to defects in the finished product. 3. Minimizing Defects Common die casting defects, including porosity, shrinkage, and warping, can often be traced back to poor mold design. Strategic placement of vents, gates, and cooling channels helps to mitigate these issues, improving overall product quality. 4. Cycle Time Reduction A well-optimized mold design improves the efficiency of the die casting process by reducing cycle times. This is achieved by enhancing heat dissipation and ensuring faster solidification, which boosts productivity and reduces manufacturing costs.   Key Elements of Effective Mold Design 1. Parting Line Design The parting line defines where the two halves of the mold separate. An optimized parting line design reduces flash formation and minimizes the need for post-processing. 2.Draft Angles Incorporating the correct draft angles ensures easy ejection of the part from the mold without damaging the surface finish. 3.Cooling System Efficient cooling channels ensure uniform temperature distribution, preventing thermal stresses and improving dimensional stability. 4. Ejection Mechanism A robust ejection system reduces the risk of damaging the part during removal and enhances the mold's longevity.   Impact on Final Product Quality 1. Surface Finish Proper mold design significantly improves the surface finish of the cast parts, reducing the need for extensive post-processing and surface treatments. 2. Structural Integrity Optimized mold features ensure that the final product has minimal internal defects, resulting in improved strength and durability. 3. Dimensional Accuracy A high-quality mold design guarantees consistent dimensions across large production runs, ensuring that every part meets stringent industry standards.   Conclusion Mold design is a foundational element in die casting that directly impacts the quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of production. Investing in professional, well-thought-out mold design not only ensures high-quality final products but also reduces manufacturing defects, shortens production cycles, and ultimately enhances customer satisfaction. For industries that demand precision and reliability, prioritizing mold design is not just beneficial—it is essential.