For new OEM parts, for replacement parts or for prototype equipment needs, finding a company to custom produce welded hydraulic cylinders in most parts of the country is not difficult.
However, not all companies manufacturing hydraulic cylinders are producing the same quality of cylinders with the same lead times and for the same price. It is well worth the time and the effort to compare at least a few different companies to find the one that offers the best quality products and services for your hydraulic cylinder needs.
Experience
In the parts industry, companies that don’t produce quality components aren’t in business long. Reputation and quality are the difference between a company that will last and a company that will quickly earn a bad reputation in the industry.
Ideally, the longer a company has been in business the better. There are some cylinder companies in business for decades, and these are the businesses with a solid reputation.
Lead Time
Most custom designed welded hydraulic cylinders will take six weeks to more than two months to be completed, and more if it is a unique cylinder request. There are some companies out there that may offer expedited services, but these come at a premium with regards to price.
There are a few select companies making custom cylinders that offer a turnaround time from order to shipping for four to six weeks. This is considerably less than the standard time without the exorbitant extra cost of expedited service and shipping.
Cost
As with any type of custom order, there are several factors that go into the price. It is good business sense to contact the companies on your shortlist to obtain a quote of the specific cylinder or cylinders you require.
Remember also to ask about lead time and the cost of shipping if you have a specific time or window for delivery in mind.
Customer Service
Customer service is invaluable when it comes to custom welded hydraulic cylinders. Companies with their own in-house draftsmen and engineers that are designing the cylinder and their own CNC machining and welding shop to actually produce the cylinder provides the best quality products as well as customer support.
Finally, make sure the company you select will fully test the cylinders before shipping. This will provide you with a new cylinder to your specifications and ready to install right out of the packing. This will end up saving time, money and stress with each order.
