The Advantages of Using One Supplier for Machining & Plating

Managing separate suppliers for machining and plating can be a logistical challenge. The disconnect between the two processes often leads to inefficiencies, miscommunication, and finger-pointing when issues arise. This lack of cohesion can ultimately impact your business—delaying lead times, increasing costs, and adding complexity to your supply chain.

A solution to these challenges? Partnering with an integrated supply chain solution provider that handles both machining and plating under one roof.

The Challenges of Separate Machining & Plating Suppliers

While machining and plating are distinct processes, they are interdependent. The way a part is machined directly influences how it can be plated.

Despite their reliance on each other, machinists and platers often work in silos. Resistance to collaboration and slow response times to issues can create bottlenecks. These delays leave your parts in limbo while suppliers work to resolve compatibility issues, costing you valuable time and resources.

The benefits of using one supplier for Machining & Plating

By choosing a supplier that offers both machining and plating services, you eliminate friction between suppliers and gain several key advantages in process efficiency, turnaround time, quality, and cost.

Streamlined Process

Within a single supplier, the machining and plating teams collaborate from the start to optimise production. Their shared expertise ensures that:

Processes are aligned for efficiency and quality
Potential plating issues are anticipated and prevented
Problems are resolved quickly without delay or miscommunication

This integrated approach minimises trial and error, reduces unnecessary back-and-forth, and frees your team to focus on other priorities.

Faster Turnaround Times

When machining and plating are handled separately, coordination gaps can cause significant delays. An integrated supply chain minimises these inefficiencies by:

Reducing logistical challenges associated with multiple suppliers
Streamlining transitions between machining and plating

Faster turnaround times mean quicker product delivery and a more agile production process.

Reduced Work in Process (WIP)

With machining and plating done at a single location, transportation is minimal. Parts move efficiently through production, cutting down on:

Transportation costs and delays
Risk of damage during transit
Excessive working capital tied up in unfinished parts

Enhanced Quality Control

An integrated machining and plating provider can maintain strict quality control throughout the entire process. This reduces:

The risk of plating defects caused by machining inconsistencies
Surface corrosion and damage in transit between suppliers
Costly rework and rejected parts

By keeping machining and plating in one facility, parts remain protected and consistently meet high-quality standards.

Cost Savings

A consolidated supply chain translates into significant cost reductions. When you work with a single supplier for machining and plating, you can:

Reduce supply chain management
Implement cost-saving process improvements
Minimise handling and transportation expenses
Eliminate secondary mark-ups from outsourced plating services

These efficiencies contribute to lower overall production costs and improved profitability.

Experience the Benefits with CBE+

CBE+ is a leading provider of precision machining and electroless nickel plating solutions, serving industries such as aerospace, automotive, oil & gas, and renewables. From our fully integrated facility in Chesterfield, UK, our expert engineering team work collaboratively to optimise processes and maintain the highest quality standards.

Contact our team today to learn more about how CBE+ can enhance your supply chain or to request a quote.