Step ２／６
Technology Assessment and Feasibility Analysis
The Bridge from Concept to Reality
Process Overviews 2 Technology Assessment and Feasibility Analysis
After clarifying the requirements, the "Technical Assessment and Feasibility Analysis" phase is the critical bridge that transforms a client's concept or drawing into a manufacturable product. This stage dictates the development timeline, product stability, production cost, and final quality. Al Forge Tech leverages a systematic, cross-functional approach to conduct a comprehensive evaluation from four key perspectives: materials, processes, equipment, and quality.
A Design for Manufacturability (DFM) Analysis
（1）DFM Review
Our team conducts a thorough DFM (Design for Manufacturability) analysis of the client's 2D drawings and 3D models, evaluating every structural feature and dimension for:
- Appropriate draft angles (for die-casting/forging)
- Whether sharp corners, deep grooves, or internal chamfers can be machined with existing equipment
- Logical symmetry and clamping points for CNC machining
- Whether complex hole patterns will interfere with drilling and tapping paths
- If curved surfaces require 5-axis machining and if we have the right machines for it
- Whether complex structures need to be made in separate parts and assembled
Through this analysis, we not only determine "if it can be made" but also "how to make it most reasonably and economically."
（2）Design Optimization Suggestions
When we identify designs that are impractical or costly, we proactively propose modifications, such as:
- Adjusting tolerance levels to reduce manufacturing costs
- Suggesting machine processing instead of precision casting to lower tooling fees
- Recommending the use of standard parts for some design features to simplify assembly
- Suggesting combining certain processing steps to improve efficiency
This technical feedback is provided to the client in writing, along with revised drawings or technical support.
B Material Selection and Performance Verification
（1）Aluminum Alloy Specification
Different aluminum alloys (like 6061-T6, 7075-T6, A356, ADC12) vary greatly in strength, ductility, corrosion resistance, and machinability. We select the optimal alloy based on:
- The operating environment (e.g., outdoor, salt spray, high temperature)
- Stress conditions (e.g., impact, bending, tension)
- Aesthetic requirements (e.g., anodizing, coating)
- Weldability and machine-friendliness
If the client has no specific requirements, we recommend the option with the best performance-to-cost ratio.
（2）Material Sourcing and Consistency
Our raw materials come from internationally certified suppliers, and every batch includes a Mill Certificate and complies with environmental regulations like RoHS and REACH. We also consider material stability and batch-to-batch consistency to prevent fluctuations in product yield.
C Process Analysis and Route Planning
（1）Forging Process Selection
Based on the product's shape, volume, mechanical requirements, and surface treatment conditions, we evaluate the primary forming method:
| Process | Advantage | Application |
| Forging | High strength, high density, low porosity | Structural parts, impact-resistant components |
This choice significantly impacts tooling costs, unit price, lead times, and production difficulty.
（2）Process Routing Design
After confirming the forming method, our engineers design a complete manufacturing route, including:
- First-piece cutting strategy and reference point setting
- The sequence of operations (e.g., rough machining → heat treatment → finish machining → surface treatment)
- Machine selection (e.g., 4-axis or 5-axis)
- The need for custom jigs and fixtures
This process is reflected in the technical specification sheet and process flow chart, serving as a basis for subsequent quotation and production.
D Equipment and Capacity Assessment
（1）Matching Equipment to Project Needs
We assess if our current equipment can meet the project's complexity and tolerance requirements:
- Do complex parts require 4.5-axis machining centers?
- Do large parts need heavy-duty horizontal machines?
- Can we improve efficiency with twin-spindle, twin-turret lathes?
- Can surface treatment be done in-house or does it need to be outsourced?
We have a complete list of processing equipment and a capacity scheduling system to instantly evaluate lead times and production feasibility.
（2）Capacity and Lead Time Planning
Our engineering and production control teams run scheduling simulations based on projected annual usage, batch requirements, and delivery dates. If the current production line is at capacity, we proactively plan for additional shifts or resources to ensure the project stays on schedule.
E Quality Risk and Inspection Planning
（1）Critical to Quality (CTQ) Control Plan
Our engineers analyze the critical dimensions on the drawing, create a CTQ table, and specify corresponding inspection methods and frequencies for features like:
- Mating hole diameters and clearances
- Datum planes and perpendicularity
- Wall thickness and thin-walled sections
- Mirror finish or rough surface treatment areas
（2）Measurement Tool and Quality Process Planning
Al Forge Tech is equipped with high-precision inspection tools, including a Zeiss CMM, surface roughness testers, and hardness testers. We design a comprehensive quality plan based on the product's tolerance level, including:
- First Article Inspection (FAI) procedures
- In-process inspection protocols
- Pre-shipment full or sampling inspection rates
- Client-specified inspection reports (e.g., PPAP, ISIR)
Feasibility Analysis: The Starting Point for Quality and Efficiency
At Al Forge Tech, technical assessment isn't just a step—it's a guarantee. It ensures we can not only make the product but make it consistently, on budget, to the highest quality, and on time. The level of professionalism in this stage directly determines the success rate of the entire development project and client satisfaction.