As part of our new prototypes development service, ARA is exploring the possibility of introducing an express delivery service for small billets of high performance metals which typically have long, sometimes highly variable lead times of several weeks.
We regularly require high strength materials like Maraging 300 and 350 for our manufacturing operations and we have a good supplier network across Europe and the US.
Drawing from our own experience (surprises can happen even with the best laid plans) our target clients would be those for whom time is of the essence – i.e. prepared to be more flexible with cost and specification. For example, we imagine that a material that significantly exceeds the client’s strength and toughness requirements would be acceptable provided it is available promptly.
Is this a service that might be of interest to fellow members (or is there already a service like this that members are aware of and find useful)? What materials would be of interest? What would be a useful maximum billet size? And what express delivery options would be desirable? How often might this be useful? Is there anything else that might be helpful? We are keen to hear from you so please share what you think in the “on offer” section of the STC Members Forum (if you prefer you are welcome to get in touch directly).
Christopher Burke
Head of Market Expansion
