Industrial gas suppliers are an essential part of the manufacturing and processing industries. Elements such as oxygen, liquid nitrogen, and argon are critical for a range of applications, from welding to chemical production. And with so much at stake, choosing the right industrial gas supplier is a crucial decision. But what should you look for when selecting a supplier?
In the following section of this article, you can explore some key factors to consider when choosing an industrial gas supplier.
Product Quality
When it comes to industrial gases, product quality is paramount. The gases supplied by your supplier must meet your specific requirements and be of consistent quality. This means that your supplier must have strict quality control measures in place and be able to provide you with documentation that demonstrates their compliance with industry standards.
One way to ensure product quality is to look for a supplier certified by a reputable third-party organisation, such as the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO). ISO certification is globally recognised, and it ensures that products and services meet specific quality and safety standards.
Reliability
Reliability is another important factor to consider when choosing an industrial gas supplier. You need to be confident that your supplier can deliver the gases you need when you need them and in the required quantities. A reliable supplier will have a track record of meeting their delivery commitments and will have contingency plans in place to deal with unexpected events that may impact their ability to deliver.
To assess a supplier’s reliability, you can look at their performance metrics, such as on-time delivery rates and the percentage of orders fulfilled in full.
Safety
When it comes to industrial gases, safety is a critical consideration due to their potential hazards. Oxygen, for example, is highly reactive and can increase the risk of fires, while liquid nitrogen can cause severe frostbite if not handled properly. Argon, on the other hand, is an asphyxiant that can displace oxygen and cause suffocation in poorly ventilated areas.
Therefore, it is essential to choose a supplier with a comprehensive safety program that includes training for employees handling these gases, regular safety inspections of equipment used in the production, storage, and transportation of these gases, and the use of appropriate safety equipment.
Cost
Cost is always a consideration when making any purchasing decision, and industrial gases are no exception. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of the gases is just one aspect of the total cost of ownership. Other factors, such as delivery costs, equipment rental, and maintenance, can significantly impact your overall costs.
When comparing prices from different suppliers, it’s essential to consider the full cost of ownership, not just the cost of the gases. You should also look for suppliers that offer transparent pricing and are willing to work with you to optimise your gas usage and reduce costs over the long term.
Customer Service
Good customer service is essential when dealing with an industrial gas supplier. You need a supplier that is responsive to your needs, easy to work with, and provides timely and accurate information.
To assess a supplier’s customer service, you can look at their response times to inquiries and the quality of the information provided. You can also ask for references from other customers and check online reviews to understand their reputation.
Choosing the right industrial gas supplier is critical for the success of your business. When evaluating potential suppliers, you should consider product quality, reliability, safety, cost, and customer service factors. By doing your due diligence and selecting a reputable supplier, you can ensure that you have a reliable source of high-quality industrial gases that meets your needs.
