1. Process capability (cladding bond)
The most critical category. Verify the supplier actually performs metallurgical cladding, not electroplating or mechanical wrapping.
- Cladding process type Verify: continuous clad-weld line on-site, not plating bath
- Bond strength SPC Request last 6 months of peel/shear data, Cpk ≥1.33
- Cross-section evidence Request cross-section photos with lot traceability
- Cladding ratio control How is ratio measured per lot? XRF or weighing?
2. Quality system and certification
Verify ISO 9001 is active (not suspended) and industry-specific certs match your application.
- ISO 9001 certificate Check validity, scope, and accreditation body
- IATF 16949 (automotive) Required for EV harness and battery busbar suppliers
- RoHS / REACH declaration Annual update, full substance disclosure
- PV: IEC 61215 test capability In-house or partner lab for TC200 / DH1000
3. Traceability and lot control
Verify each spool can be traced back to raw material lot, process parameters and operator.
- Lot numbering system Spool → process lot → raw material lot — verify with 3 random samples
- Process parameter records Rolling force, speed, temperature — retained ≥3 years
- CoA per lot Includes dimensions, conductivity, bond strength, coating thickness
- Recall procedure Mock recall test — trace a lot in <2 hours
4. Equipment and capacity
Verify the supplier has the equipment to make your specific product, not just general capability.
- Rolling mill precision Min thickness tolerance achievable on-site
- Annealing capability Atmosphere control, temperature uniformity ±5°C
- Coating line Hot-dip tinning / electroplating — match your requirement
- Spare capacity Can they absorb +30% of your annual demand in peak month?
5. Environmental and ESG
Verify environmental compliance and ESG documentation for customs and brand-owner audits.
- ISO 14001 certificate Active environmental management system
- Waste water and fume Permits + treatment equipment on-site
- Conflict minerals (3TG) CMRT template completed annually
- Carbon footprint data Product-level PCF available for ESG reporting
6. Commercial readiness
Verify the supplier can support your commercial terms, lead time and risk management.
- Standard lead time First article, pilot, mass production — written commitment
- Payment terms Net 30/60, LC, currency — match your finance policy
- Inventory buffer Safety stock commitment for your top SKUs
- Quality liability RMA process, credit note timeline, recall cost sharing