• A: SOMI has a global network of premium manufacturing partners, With advanced production equipment, a professional technical team. From prototyping to production, SOMI provides customers with high-quality, high-efficiency customized spare parts services, to provide project solutions for customers in different fields. ...

  • A: The SOMI Partner Network is free for partners to join. You really don't pay for anything. We don't have a trial period for the platform or membership fees and there are no hidden costs. Using the platform is absolutely free.

  • A: Submit the supplier application form and we will conduct a site and company profile review of your factory, and then verify that the product quality meets SOMI‘s quality standards through sample orders or small batch orders.

  • A: For qualified suppliers, joining SOMI's manufacturing network offers numerous advantages. Firstly, you can focus on what you do best—precision manufacturing—without worrying about complex global order management or multilingual customer communications. SOMI handles all client interactions, order processing, and logistics ar...

  • A: Die casting is generally considered environmentally friendly compared to other metalworking processes, as it produces minimal waste and can be done with recyclable materials. However, proper management of emissions and waste is essential to minimize environmental impact.

  • A: Common zinc alloys include:o Zamak 3: The most widely used zinc die casting alloy, known for its strength and ductility.o Zamak 5: Offers higher strength than Zamak 3 and is suitable for more demanding applications.

  • A: Zinc alloys have several advantages, including:o Lower melting point, which reduces energy costso High strength and impact resistanceo Excellent dimensional stabilityo Good surface finish and detail reproduction

  • A: Benefits include:o Lightweight componentso Good dimensional accuracyo Ability to create complex shapeso Excellent surface finisho High durability and resistance to wear

  • A: Some popular aluminum alloys for die casting include:o A380: Known for good fluidity and mechanical properties.o A383: Offers excellent dimensional stability and surface finish.o A356: Known for better strength and is often used in structural applications.

  • A: Aluminum alloys are lightweight, offer excellent corrosion resistance, and have good thermal and electrical conductivity. They also provide high strength-to-weight ratios, making them ideal for various applications, including automotive and aerospace.

  • A: The most commonly used materials in die casting are aluminum alloys, zinc alloys, magnesium alloys, and copper alloys. Each material has its unique properties and applications.

  • A: Yes, recycled plastics can be used, but their properties may differ from virgin materials. It’s important to test and ensure they meet the necessary performance specifications.

  • A: Excess moisture can lead to defects such as bubbles, poor surface finish, and reduced mechanical properties. Proper drying of hygroscopic materials is essential before processing.

  • A: Yes, biodegradable and bio-based plastics like PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoates) can be used in injection molding, providing sustainable alternatives for certain applications.

  • A: Consider factors such as mechanical properties, thermal stability, environmental exposure, cost, and end-use requirements. Consulting with material suppliers and engineers can be beneficial.

  • A: ABS is favored due to its excellent impact resistance, good toughness, ease of processing, and ability to be painted or coated easily.

  • A: Common thermoplastics include ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), PMMA (Acrylic), PS (Polystyrene), PC (Polycarbonate), and PP (Polypropylene). Thermosetting plastics like epoxy and phenolic resins are also used.

  • A: Begin by defining your project's specifications, including dimensions, tolerances, and material requirements. Partnering with an experienced fabrication company can help guide you through the process.

  • A: Laser cutting offers higher precision and cleaner edges compared to traditional methods like shearing or sawing. It's also more versatile for cutting complex shapes.

  • A: Consider factors such as strength, weight, corrosion resistance, and cost when selecting a material. It's also important to account for the intended use and environmental conditions.

  • A: The thickness of metal sheets used in fabrication can vary widely, typically ranging from 0.1 mm to several millimeters, depending on the material and application.

  • A: Stamping is a manufacturing process that involves creating shapes and features on metal sheets by applying force using dies. This process can produce high volumes of parts with precision and consistency.

  • A: Metal sheet fabrication refers to the process of transforming flat sheets of metal into specific shapes and components through various methods, including cutting, bending, and assembling.

  • A: Common materials include aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, and brass. Each material has its own unique properties, making them suitable for different applications.

  • A: Yes, Nylon is an excellent choice for parts that require high strength and flexibility. It is often used in mechanical applications, but it can be challenging to print due to its moisture absorption and tendency to warp.

  • A: 3D printing materials are widely available online through specialty retailers, as well as in local craft and electronics stores. Make sure to choose reputable suppliers to ensure quality.

  • A: Some materials can emit fumes when heated, so it's important to print in a well-ventilated area. Always follow manufacturer guidelines for safe handling and use of materials.

  • A: Consider factors such as the desired strength, flexibility, heat resistance, and environmental conditions. Additionally, think about the printing method and the capabilities of your 3D printer.

  • A: While it is possible to mix some materials, it requires careful consideration of their compatibility. Most printers can only handle one material at a time, so multi-material printing usually involves using a dual-extrusion setup.

  • A: ABS is more durable and heat-resistant than PLA, making it suitable for functional parts. However, it can be more challenging to print due to its tendency to warp and emit fumes during printing.

  • A: ABS is more durable and heat-resistant than PLA, making it suitable for functional parts. However, it can be more challenging to print due to its tendency to warp and emit fumes during printing.

  • A: PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic made from renewable resources like corn starch. Its advantages include ease of use, minimal warping, and a wide range of colors. It's ideal for beginners and for projects that don't require high strength or heat resistance.

  • A: The most common types include PLA (Polylactic Acid), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-Modified), TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), and Nylon. Each material has its unique properties suitable for different applications.

  • A: When choosing the right sheet metal fabrication service provider, consider the following factors: processing capability (whether they have the equipment and technology to handle complex projects), quality control (whether they have a strict quality management system), delivery time (whether they can deliver on t...

  • A: Surface treatment processes after sheet metal fabrication can significantly enhance the appearance, corrosion resistance, and other physical properties of the product. Common surface treatment processes include painting (powder coating and liquid painting), electroplating (such as galvanizing, chrome plating, an...

  • A: Common materials used in sheet metal fabrication include stainless steel, aluminum alloys, carbon steel, galvanized steel, copper and copper alloys, magnesium alloys, and titanium alloys. Each material has unique properties and applications. For example, stainless steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and strength, making it suitable f...

  • A: Injection molding is a manufacturing process used to produce parts by injecting molten material into a mold. It is commonly used with plastics but can also accommodate metals, glasses, and elastomers. The process begins with melting the material, which is then injected under pressure into a mold cavity. Once the material cools and solidifies...

  • A: 3D printing is better for small batch, complex parts that may require frequent design changes or customisation. Injection moulding, on the other hand, is better for large volume production of less complex parts that have successfully completed the design stage.

  • A: The main advantage of injection molding compared to additive manufacturing is the production of large volumes of identical parts. However, injection molding faces significant challenges, notably in setup time and initial investment.

  • A: A single punching die can only complete one punching process at a time. A progressive die can complete multiple stamping processes at several different stations. A compound die can simultaneously complete more than two processes at the same station.