selling anodizing to machine shops

[MBG]

I am looking to expand my anodizing to sell to machine shops in my local area and some internet.

I only offer color (type II) anodize. I specialize in colors and also offer laser engraving.



A question for the machine shop owners. How would you like to be approached that I am in the business of anodizing? I would hate to cold call.

[jvangelder]

A PDF with the type(s) of services you offer, minimum lot charge's, estimated turn etc attached to an email introducing yourself works the best for me.

One thing i haven't seen in one of these emails is some example prices on a roughly dimensioned part, something like that would be a nice change IMHO

Also if they are local, just showing up to introduce yourself is nice, personally i remember the guys who show up but make a point of not trying to stay around or do a walk though

-Jacob

[harryn]

Hi, does the laser engraving show up on unfinished Al, like 6061 type material? I have a few parts that could benefit from a serial number / brand being engraved in them if that concept can work.

Thanks

Harry

[gmfoster]

I know it sounds tacky but I think showing up in person with a unique business card that shows off your capabilities is a smart way to go. Maybe an anodized business card, or a aluminum pen(you can buy the hardware for less than 2.00) only use aluminum rather than wood anodized and with your business engraved. Something that really shows off what you do. Along with a good printout of services and some idea of pricing and discounts..

[MBG]

Originally Posted by harryn Hi, does the laser engraving show up on unfinished Al, like 6061 type material? I have a few parts that could benefit from a serial number / brand being engraved in them if that concept can work. Thanks Harry

The laser I use is only powerful enough to go through the thickness of the anodize not the aluminum base metal.

[xyzeugene]

Why don't you get a list of all the shops around town and send them chips of your work?

[locash]

As the others have said, samples, a sheet with pricing and minimum lot charges, and unlike the people in my area, a guarantee that the anodizing will look the damn same every part, every time. I swear, I'll take 50 identical parts, I'll get 20 nicely anodized ones, and 30 that look like the clown anodizing them was drunk that day. Hell, some of my parts come back looking like they were obviously dropped on the floor afterwards and hidden in the bottom of the box. When confronted about it, I am told that I would be reimbursed the cost of the anodizing, not the 2 hours it took to make the part. Dont get me started on color matching.

I can't win with anodizers, so take care of your customers and their word of mouth will do wonders for you.

[MBG]

Originally Posted by locash As the others have said, samples, a sheet with pricing and minimum lot charges, and unlike the people in my area, a guarantee that the anodizing will look the damn same every part, every time. I swear, I'll take 50 identical parts, I'll get 20 nicely anodized ones, and 30 that look like the clown anodizing them was drunk that day. Hell, some of my parts come back looking like they were obviously dropped on the floor afterwards and hidden in the bottom of the box. When confronted about it, I am told that I would be reimbursed the cost of the anodizing, not the 2 hours it took to make the part. Dont get me started on color matching. I can't win with anodizers, so take care of your customers and their word of mouth will do wonders for you.

what area are you from?

[locash]

Phoenix, Arizona..