Supplier Issues

Supplier Relations

Last week, a supplier visited to discuss the components of their products and any possible implications that they have in downstream processes. One of the processes is of particular concern because it involves exposure to temperatures up to 200 ˚C for 30 seconds to several minutes. I have completed a fairly significant review of the literature on one class of chemicals used in the products in question. The literature alludes to the possibilities of desorption and decomposition at elevated temperatures.

Unfortunately, the research specifically in our industry appeared to be limited. This is troublesome to me because the vast majority of our product is processed at these elevated temperatures. In fact, the representative said that he was not aware of any research completed at these elevated temperatures. Quite frankly this left me wondering when the industry in question will come out of the dark ages. As far as I can tell, there have not been any truly significant developments in years. This is certainly what we have observed from this industry within our organization. The time is ripe for research and development. The time is ripe for change.