Navigating COTS Fastener Choices: Flexibility vs. Consistency in the Supply Chain
Last updated on October 15, 2024 01:27:00 PM
For over 60 years, Olander has proudly served as a trusted distributor of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) fasteners, providing industries with reliable hardware solutions to meet their diverse manufacturing needs. When purchasing COTS fasteners, customers are often faced with two key options: ordering non-proprietary, standard part numbers or proprietary manufacturer-assigned part numbers. Understanding the differences between these two options can significantly impact supply chain efficiency and product consistency.
Non-Proprietary Part Numbers: Flexibility in the Supply Chain
Non-proprietary part numbers are industry-standard identifiers assigned by individual distributors, such as Olander. These fasteners are manufactured to the same specifications and made available by a wide array of suppliers, including manufacturers, importers, and distributors, making them interchangeable. One of the main advantages of ordering non-proprietary parts is the flexibility it offers. If one supplier faces a shortage or has extended lead times, customers can source the same part from another vendor without affecting the form, fit, or function of the fastener. This flexibility is crucial in maintaining production timelines, mitigating supply chain risks, and controlling costs.
However, the trade-off is that non-proprietary parts may lack certain documentation or higher-level reporting, such as detailed chemical composition reports, since they aren't tied to a specific manufacturer. For industries where traceability and advanced certifications are critical, this may pose limitations.
Proprietary Manufacturer Part Numbers: Consistency at a Premium
On the other hand, proprietary part numbers ensure that fasteners are always sourced from the same manufacturer, maintaining consistency in the production process. These fasteners often have access to additional documentation, such as material certifications, that provide deeper insight into product quality and traceability. However, because proprietary parts are restricted to a single supplier, customers may face challenges if that supplier experiences delays or inventory shortages. Additionally, proprietary fasteners can come at a higher cost and reduce supply chain flexibility, as equivalent parts from other manufacturers cannot be substituted.
All Fasteners, One Standard
Whether customers choose non-proprietary or proprietary part numbers, all COTS fasteners are manufactured to industry standards, including the Industrial Fasteners Institute (IFI) specifications, and are compliant with the Fastener Quality Act. This ensures that both types of fasteners meet stringent quality and safety guidelines, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
So, what’s the best choice for your operations? When reviewing your fastener needs, ask yourself: Does your process require the flexibility of interchangeable fasteners, or do you need the consistency that only proprietary part numbers provide? No matter the answer, Olander is here to support your unique needs with industry expertise and dependable service.
