We’re calling out suppliers
who don’t call out
their true source of materials.
Obscuring materials may be good for suppliers, but it’s bad for OEMs and their CMs.
Custom cable assemblies play a crucial role in the intricate and demanding world of medical device manufacturing. These components are essential to the functionality and reliability of medical devices, yet they can also become a source of frustration and roadblocks for OEMs and their contract manufacturing partners.
The Veil of Proprietary Materials
A common practice among some suppliers is to obscure the true source of their materials. This makes it much more difficult for OEMs and the CMs they call in to improve the component/device. For example, we know of a supplier who lists various proprietary conductor materials (to keep the supplier confidential, we’ll call this material “COOLaloy99”). While this name may sound exclusive, the supplier doesn’t manufacture the raw conductors. Instead, the supplier sources these materials from other manufacturers, rebrands them, and then labels them as proprietary.
When a medical device OEM is locked into using a proprietary material like “COOLaloy99,” it becomes more difficult to prove equivalence without spending time on testing, increasing quality and engineering resources within the project, and managing the regulatory hurdles from the FDA. This lack of transparency creates dependency and makes it significantly harder for the OEM to switch suppliers or make improvements.
Good for the supplier. Bad for the OEM and their CM.
The Certification Conundrum
Another tactic used to create barriers is the inclusion of specific UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certifications that only the original supplier is certified to produce. If an OEM and CM want to switch suppliers, they must pay for the new manufacturer to obtain the same certification or spend engineering resources to justify the certification is not required, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars and require longer development times.
In the wire and cable industry, there are numerous UL certifications, many of which are widely recognized and held by multiple manufacturers. By opting for more common UL certifications, the process becomes far easier and more flexible for the end customer. However, when a supplier uses unique certifications, it adds another layer of complexity and expense for the OEM.
The Importance of Transparency and Honesty
These practices highlight the importance of transparency and honesty from suppliers. Medical device OEMs and their CMs rely on these partners not only for their manufacturing capabilities but also for their integrity and openness. When partners intentionally obscure material sources or use exclusive certifications to lock in business, it undermines trust and hampers the OEM and CM’s ability to innovate and improve their products.
At Global Interconnect, we prioritize transparency and collaboration with our customers. We believe that open communication and sharing critical information about materials and certifications are essential to building strong, long-lasting partnerships. By providing full visibility into our supply chain and certification processes, we empower our customers to make informed decisions and maintain flexibility in their manufacturing processes.
The Advantages of Transparency are Clear
Transparency isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity for fostering innovation and growth in the medical device industry. Let’s work together to create a more open and collaborative manufacturing ecosystem.
