Created By: Midlake ProductsCopyright 2012 Midlake Products & Manufacturing

Design and function are linked closely when itcomes to a product such as hinges

Good tips:

Discuss design needs with a design engineer

Seek input for design tweaks to improve function

Set realistic tolerances for the product

Choose a specific material an finish

Get a quote for your specific order and application

The Importance of

Customizing Your Work

Turrett Punch Press

Manual machine requires a skilled operator

Performs punching operations which save time and provide increased accuracy

CNC Turrett Punch Press

“CNC” stands for “Computer Numerically Controlled”

Program the specifications for each product and the computer will manage the production

Great for higher productivity and more advanced functions.

Types of Hinge

Manufacturing Equipment

Laser Cutting Machines

Computer operated

Allows for minimal product waste and the highest tolerances

Can be customized to cut any shape and size, even multiple products within the same sheet

Hinge Manufacturing

Equipment (continued)

No matter what type of technology is used, the skill of the craftsman operating the equipment is critical to a good output

Increase in emphasis on technology should not reduce the value of skilled craftsman

Input from designers and craftsman is critical for the best output

The Importance of

Craftsmanship

ATM HingesButt Hinges

Concealed HingesContinuous Hinges

(Piano Hinges)

H-HingesInset HingesLatch Hinges

Lift Off HingesMarine Hinges

CommercialHeavy Duty

The Many Types of

Custom Hinges

Non-Mortise HingesOffset HingesRemovable / Slip Joint HingesSecurity HingesSpring HingesStakes HingesStrap HingesSwing Door HingesIndustrialStainless steelT hinges

Powder Coating

Silk Screening

Aluminum Anodizing

Passivating

Plating

E-Coating

Mass Media Blasting & Tumbling

Options for Hinge Finishes

The manufacturer must be able to hold your tolerances during manufacturing

The use of more recent technology (lasers and CNC) makes this easier to accomplish

Conventional wisdom says tighter is always better but not necessarily

Too tight may lead to unnecessary costs

Consult with a design engineer for specific recommendations

A Word About Tolerances

Look for accreditations and certifications which indicate a manufacturer’s commitment to quality

Two to look for include:

ISO Certification

Six Sigma (Lean Manufacturing)

The Importance of Quality

Founded

in 1987

About Midlake Products

Specializes in

custom made

hinges and sheet

metal products

Located in

Louisville, Ohio

(near Akron/Canton)

We hope you have enjoyed reading

"The Definitive Guide to Hinges".

If you have any questions feel free

to visit our website at

and contact us.