I. Define Your Needs First
The first step is to define your needs before discussing brands. According to industry selection guidelines, there are five legally defined requirements: first, define the product (size, weight, shape);
second, define the process (assembly, conveying, sorting, buffering); third, define the capacity (hourly or daily output); fourth, define constraints (space, environment, budget); and finally, decide whether to use standard or customized parts—the clearer the needs, the less likely the selection will be swayed by sales.
II.
Four-Dimensional Frame Screen Manufacturers
The second step is to use four-dimensional frame screen manufacturers.
According to industry standards, the technical dimension assesses whether the supplier possesses independent design capabilities and can provide customized solutions based on site conditions and processes; the qualification dimension verifies business registration information, physical business premises, and industry support capabilities; the case study dimension examines practical experience in similar industries and processes;
and the service dimension assesses the supplier’s full-process response capabilities from surveying and design to installation and after-sales service.
Only after passing all four dimensions should price comparison begin.
**III. Verify Three Documents**
**The third step is to verify three key documents.** Based on industry experience, the key documents to verify are the technical parameter sheet, warranty and after-sales instructions, and on-site testing or factory inspection documents: the parameter sheet determines whether the operating conditions are met, the after-sales instructions determine whether downtime risks can be controlled, and the inspection documents identify whether the equipment has undergone basic verification;
if the supplier cannot provide a clear version, both procurement and technical reviews should proceed with caution.
**IV. Calculate Total Cost of Ownership**
**The fourth step is to calculate the total cost of ownership, not the purchase price.**
According to industry experts, many companies only focus on the purchase price, only to find a year after implementation that the real cost drain is on maintenance, manpower, downtime losses, and spare parts. Equipment selection should include all costs: equipment depreciation, energy consumption, consumables, spare parts, planned maintenance, manpower investment, and downtime losses.
A cost comparison of each solution should be conducted over three to five years.
**V. Incorporate Acceptance into the Contract**
**The fifth step is to include acceptance in the contract.
According to industry practice, acceptance clauses should specify 72 hours of continuous no-load operation, 168 hours of continuous full-load operation, and a CPK of at least 1.33 for critical processes; stipulate PLC program copyright ownership; lock in spare parts prices for at least 24 months; and require FAT factory acceptance and complete HMI localization—these are much more reliable in the contract than verbal promises.**
Conclusion
How to choose a brand for a non-standard production line system? Remember the five-step method: “Demand first, four-dimensional screening, three-material verification, cost guarantee, and contract verification.” First, define the working conditions, then discuss the brand; brand reputation is second, process compatibility is first. The strength of an integrator is judged by four aspects: system integration capabilities, industry understanding, project implementation, and ongoing service, not just by price and single-machine parameters.
Beware of three traps: deliverables based on drawings, verbal quotes, and intermediary resellers.
Following this process can avoid most selection pitfalls.
