OEM Challenges with Heater Manufacturers in the Plastics Industry

Resolving the Challenges and Impacts that Matter to Plastics OEMs

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the plastics industry often face specific challenges or pain points when working with heater manufacturers. These pain points can vary based on the complexity of the plastic processing equipment, the customization required, and the overall collaboration between the OEM and the heater manufacturer.Below are common pain points and their associated impacts, along with suggestions for resolving them. You have likely encountered all of them at some point. As you read these, what jumps out to you as something that you have already mastered, are currently working on improving, or need to initiate resolutions to fix? How will a quality collaboration with the right heating manufacturer help ease the resolution? 

Customization Requirements

• • Challenge: OEMs often require customized heating solutions tailored to the specific needs of their plastic processing equipment.
  • Impact: The need for customization can lead to longer lead times, increased costs, and challenges in finding heater manufacturers with the expertise to meet unique specifications.
  • Road to Resolution: To address this, OEMs should clearly communicate their specifications from the outset and establish a collaborative relationship with the heater manufacturer that encourages open dialogue about design capabilities. Involving the manufacturer early in the design process can also streamline customization and reduce lead times.
    
  
  

  Precision and Temperature Control

• • Challenge: Many plastic processing applications require precise temperature control for molding, extrusion, or other processes. This control relies on the feedback provided from a wide variety of temperature sensors.
  • Impact: Inconsistent or inaccurate temperature control can result in defective products, production delays, and increased rejection rates.
  • Road to Resolution: Implementing robust data analytics and monitoring systems can help maintain accurate temperature readings. Additionally, conducting thorough testing of the heating elements before use ensures reliability in temperature control. Having reliable temperature sensors is your first, best step.

Integration with Complex Machinery

• • Challenge: Integration of heaters into complex plastic processing machinery, such as injection molding or extrusion equipment, can be challenging.
  • Impact: Poor design planning can lead to operational inefficiencies, increased downtime, and difficulties in troubleshooting.
  • Road to Resolution: Engaging in detailed upfront planning and design iterations involving both teams can mitigate potential integration issues. Regular meetings to reassess project progress can also help coordinate efforts effectively. Contact our Backer Marathon sales engineers to discuss your needs; we love helping you maximize your efficiencies.
    

Lead Time Constraints

• • Challenge: OEMs often work under tight deadlines to bring new plastic processing equipment to market quickly.
  • Impact: Lengthy lead times for customized heater solutions can hinder the OEM’s ability to meet project deadlines, impacting time-to-market, as well as timely replacements in post-sale or aftermarket programs.
  • Road to Resolution: Establishing clear timelines with manufacturers, considering stock options for standardized heaters, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers can help expedite timely deliveries and favorable lead times.
     

Quality and Reliability

• • Challenge: The quality and reliability of heating elements are critical for consistent and efficient plastic processing.
  • Impact: Substandard heater quality can result in increased maintenance costs, production disruptions, and a negative impact on the OEM’s reputation.
  • Road to Resolution: OEMs should prioritize working with manufacturers that have strong quality assurance processes and certifications, ensuring that the heating components meet industry standards. As well, choosing the right heater for your process enables you to maintain control over the quality and reliability of your production.

Global Supply Chain Management

• • Challenge: OEMs often operate on a global scale and may face challenges in managing the supply chain for heaters from different regions.
  • Impact: Issues related to shipping, customs, or varying standards can affect the consistency and reliability of the supply chain.
  • Road to Resolution: Discussing redundancy strategies with your supplier can mitigate disruptions. Many forward-thinking OEMs will establish reliable backup options to their primary suppliers to mitigate disruption consequences. Regularly reviewing supply chain operations helps identify and address potential pitfalls early. Your heater manufacture should be eager to anticipate your requirements and be willing and able to be your source throughout challenges. Backer Marathon is made in the USA and has a long-standing record of reliability with a continuous supply chain.
    
    

• Regulatory Compliance

  • Challenge: The plastics industry is subject to various regulations, and OEMs must ensure that their equipment complies with safety and environmental standards.
  • Impact: Non-compliance can lead to delays, increased costs, and legal implications for OEMs.

• • Road to Resolution: Engaging with heater manufacturers knowledgeable about industry regulations can help ensure compliance throughout the manufacturing process.

Cost Pressures

• • Challenge: OEMs are under constant pressure to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
  • Impact: High manufacturing costs for customized heating solutions can impact the overall competitiveness of the OEM’s products.
  • Road to Resolution: Collaborating with manufacturers on value engineering can help identify cost-saving measures without compromising quality or performance.

Communication and Collaboration

• • Challenge: Effective communication and collaboration between the OEM and heater manufacturer are crucial for successful integration.
  • Impact: Miscommunication can lead to design flaws, delays, and additional costs during the manufacturing process.
  • Road to Resolution: Establishing clear communication channels and protocols can enhance collaboration. Regular updates and feedback loops strengthen the partnership and facilitate smoother production processes. Establishing programs, such as an aftermarket and spare parts program, is one type of engagement that keeps you and your heater manufacture on the same page and up-to-date with your needs.

Technology Advancements

• • Challenge: Keeping up with the latest heating technologies and advancements in the plastics industry can be demanding for OEMs.
  • Impact: Failure to adopt new technologies may result in outdated equipment, reducing competitiveness in the market.
  • Road to Resolution: OEMs should remain informed about industry trends and regular training sessions with suppliers to explore new technologies that could enhance efficiency and product offerings.

Assessing the Your Situation

So, which of these are you thinking about and working on? Addressing these pain points requires strong collaboration between OEMs and heater manufacturers, clear communication, and a mutual understanding of the unique requirements of the plastics processing industry. Establishing strong partnerships and leveraging the expertise of reputable heater manufacturers can help OEMs overcome these challenges and deliver high-quality, efficient plastic processing equipment.

Why Backer Marathon

Backer Marathon is the industry leader in production speed, and reliable, quality heaters for plastics and packaging, serving OEMs with durable, customized solutions for unique heating needs since 1996. We design, manufacture, and stock industrial-grade heating elements and temperature sensors. Engineers have live, on-demand access via phone to our trained technical experts who have been pioneers in this sector for decades.

How can Backer Marathon’s experts help you today? Nosotros hablamos español. Contact us today to discuss your next project.