Choosing aftermarket parts, especially tubular components, can be challenging. However, not all parts are made equal, making it crucial to select both the right method and supplier that align with your application’s needs.
This blog post aims to help you navigate this process effectively, focusing on when centrifugally cast aftermarket parts are the way to go and selecting the best supplier for your needs.
Why choose aftermarket instead of OEM parts?
OEM parts are undeniably designed for perfect fit and function within a specific system.
However, engineers often face urgent situations that necessitate alternative solutions. Greg Whitman, Sales and Marketing Manager for Spuncast Centrifugal Casting Foundry, highlights three key reasons why aftermarket parts are preferable:
1. Availability for Older Equipment: As machinery ages and warranties expire, manufacturers may discontinue parts production. Aftermarket parts bridge this gap by offering compatible replacements that ensure continued operation.
2. Cost-Effective Alternatives: The high cost of OEM parts can be a burden, particularly if frequent replacements are needed. Aftermarket parts provide a more budget-friendly solution without sacrificing quality.
3. Customized Specifications: Engineering projects may require parts with unique specifications that OEMs don’t offer. Aftermarket suppliers often cater to these specific mechanical or chemical needs, providing a wider range of options for a perfect match.
Common aftermarket manufacturing processes
Okay, so you’ve decided an aftermarket part is right for you. How do you get it?
Manufacturers have multiple options when it comes to sourcing suppliers for their aftermarket parts, but not every approach is ideal for every part.
The table below outlines four common aftermarket manufacturing processes and indicates the types of parts for which they are most suitable.
| Manufacturing Process | Description | Most Appropriate Aftermarket Parts |
| Machining | Removing material from a workpiece using cutting tools to achieve the desired shape and dimensions | Precision components requiring tight tolerances and complex geometries |
| Forging | Shaping metal using localized compressive forces, typically by hammering or pressing, resulting in improved strength | High-strength parts subjected to heavy loads and stress |
| Fabrication | Assembling parts by cutting, bending, and assembling processes such as welding, brazing, and fastening | Structural components and assemblies requiring customization and versatility |
| Centrifugal Casting | Pouring molten metal into a rotating mold, which causes the metal to be distributed uniformly by centrifugal force, resulting in a dense and fine-grained structure | Cylindrical and hollow parts needing high integrity and uniformity |
The centrifugal casting advantage for cylindrical aftermarket parts
Centrifugal casting outperforms traditional methods such as forging, machining and fabrication when producing cylindrical aftermarket parts. This method harnesses centrifugal force to shape molten metal into tubular forms naturally, offering several key advantages, including the following:
Improved Material Quality:
- Creates dense, strong parts with minimal voids
- Uniform grain structure
- Produces smoother surfaces, reduces machining
- Impressive tensile strength and impact resistance due to directional solidification
Versatility and Customization:
- Works with a large variety of alloys suitable for most applications
- Ideal for both one-off prototypes or large multiple-orders
Cost Efficiency:
- Better material utilization with less waste
- Near-net shape casting lowers manufacturing costs
Consistency and Reliability:
- Repeatable and accurate part performance
- Produces long-lasting, durable parts
Identifying a reputable aftermarket supplier
When selecting a centrifugal casting foundry for your aftermarket parts, consider these key factors to ensure reliability and quality:
⬜ Certifications and Standards: Look for a foundry that adheres to industry standards and holds relevant certifications, such as ISO, indicating high-quality manufacturing processes.
⬜ Product Quality and Warranty: Evaluate the quality of their cast parts and check for warranties or guarantees that reflect confidence in their products.
⬜ Experience and Expertise: Consider their experience in creating OEM replacement parts and their expertise in producing parts for your specific industry or application.
⬜ Manufacturing Capabilities: Ensure they have advanced equipment and technology to meet your specifications and quality requirements.
⬜ Supply Chain Reliability: Investigate their material supply chain reliability and inventory management to ensure timely part delivery.
⬜ Price vs. Value: Compare prices among different suppliers but also weigh the overall value, including product quality, customer service and reliability.
Focusing on these factors can help you identify a reputable supplier for aftermarket parts that will effectively meet your needs and support your operations.
Spuncast: Keeping a mining giant running smoothly
Christensen, a large-scale mining operation in Antofagasta, Chile, faced a major setback when the OEM discontinued a vital component of one of its machines. This created an operational bottleneck, causing delays and potential financial losses.
They turned to Spuncast to supply a centrifugally cast replacement casing made from high-grade stainless steel. This solution matched the original specifications, delivered significant cost savings, and ensured continued operation. The mining company now maintains a stock of these replacement parts to minimize downtime in the future.
Ensuring operational continuity
Centrifugally cast components provide a reliable and cost-effective way to replace worn or damaged tubular parts. They help minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
Opting for centrifugally cast aftermarket parts from a reputable foundry like Spuncast ensures your machinery performs reliably and efficiently. It’s a choice that can extend the lifespan of your equipment and support long-term operational success.
