Sub Copper components outsourcing

I. Overview

This Sub Copper Components Outsourcing case study highlights how Vietnam Outsourcing (VNO) supported a UK-based global leader in hoses, solenoid valves, and water control systems to establish a new supply base in Vietnam.

The client, known as the largest manufacturer and supplier in its segment, previously relied heavily on China (CNO) for sourcing. However, to diversify and strengthen its supply chain, the company began shifting part of its Sub Copper components outsourcing to Vietnam.

The selected Vietnamese supplier is located in a craft village specializing in brass and copper manufacturing. The factory has extensive experience in machining brass and copper products using CNC technology, enabling consistent quality and cost-effective production for international clients.

II. Main process

Step 1 – Copper Extrusion

Raw copper is extruded into bars or rods according to required diameters.

copper extrusion

Step 2 – Surface Broaching

The extruded bars are broached to achieve smooth and uniform surfaces, preparing them for precision machining.

Step 3 – CNC Machining

Each copper component is machined to exact specifications using advanced CNC equipment. Tight tolerances and precise threading are maintained throughout the process.

Step 4 – Deburring and Edge Finishing

All burrs and sharp edges are carefully removed to ensure safe handling and smooth assembly during installation.

Step 5 – Final Inspection and Packing

The components undergo visual and dimensional inspection before being packed with protective materials for export shipment.

III. Detail process

III. Challenges

The product itself is relatively simple; however, Sub Copper components outsourcing still involves several quality and consistency challenges that suppliers need to manage proactively.

Thread Quality Control – Even small inconsistencies in threading directly affect sealing performance and assembly fit.
Surface Defects – External damage such as cracks, dents, or scratches often happens during handling or transport if workers don’t follow protective procedures.
Standardization of QC Practices – Each supplier must align their quality control, measurement, and packaging methods with the customer’s export standards to maintain consistency.

Although these issues may seem minor, they can quickly impact the customer’s trust and perception of reliability if not corrected early.

IV. Solutions

Solution 1 – Machining Program and Thread Inspection
The supplier now monitors and adjusts the machining program regularly. In addition, they conduct frequent in-process inspections to detect and correct thread defects before final machining.

Solution 2 – Surface Protection Measures
To minimize surface damage, the supplier added multiple layers of soft fabric and foam to each tray containing finished parts. This simple adjustment significantly reduced scratches and dents during handling.

Solution 3 – Standardization of QC Documentation
VNO supported the supplier in standardizing quality management documentation, measurement tools, and packaging processes. As a result, the Sub Copper components outsourcing process now follows uniform guidelines that align with international export requirements.

V. Summary

Supplier Comments:
“As this is an export-grade project, we place strong emphasis on maintaining the highest level of quality control. We are committed to continuous improvement and look forward to increasing annual production volumes and expanding into a wider range of brass and copper products—our core strength.”

Through Sub Copper components outsourcing, VNO successfully helped the supplier elevate their production capabilities, implement modern QC practices, and strengthen long-term collaboration with international buyers.

Copper components