Frequently asked questions

Check our frequently asked questions and answers section (FAQ) about manufacturing and product engineering at Davantech.

Davantech is a professional factory for production of mechanical parts and assemblies. We are an international company with offices in Europe and Hong Kong and our factory is located in Dongguan, China since 2012. We also provide product engineering services. Our factory covers an area of over 5000 square meters. We obtained ISO 9001:2015 certification in 2018. Some of our specialties are CNC machining (turning and milling). Surface finish such as powder coating and anodizing is possible. Next we do injection molding of plastics and overmolding. One of our benefits is assembling services for small or large volumes and this for a variety of markets. Whether the quantity is small or large, Davantech has the capabilities of meeting our customers’ most demanding needs.

Read our frequently asked questions section for more answers. We are dedicated to build solid partnerships. Basically we provide flexible solutions for our customers’ success. Our talented team is driven to deliver end-to-end product solutions. And we strive to do this at the lowest total cost. Our expertise is in design and engineering as well as components manufacturing and supply chain management services. Our range of solutions include the entire process to create a product:  from design, manufacturing processes, through the delivery. We develop customized solutions that drive product innovation, cost savings, supply chain efficiencies and improved time-to-market. We do this by understanding the unique complexity of each customer’s business.

Frequently Asked Questions: Davantech

How does Davantech ensure quality ?

At Davantech, quality and customers satisfaction comes first. First of all, we follow our ISO9001:2015 procedures throughout the entire process from order over manufacturing to shipping. Next, we determine tolerances and accuracy based on the customers information. This information is delivered to us in the form of production drawings and 3D files. Next, we inform you when we see indications that there could be a problem to produce your product. Furthermore, we suggest how to improve the design for better manufacturing. Manufacturing is also an interaction between us and the customer. That is how Davantech ensures quality ?

Follow up during production.
Each part is followed up during the manufacturing process (CNC machining). Our Quality engineers always make a measuring report. In many cases we ship one or two production samples from the entire batch to our customer for acceptance. When accepted it means the entire batch is good to ship. We will rework or start over in case there is a non-conformity. It is our responsibility to deliver good products. For large production series and assembled products or devices it is better for you to come over and sign-off the product. In this way we are both certain that the goods are conform the specification before shipping.

What about intellectual property ?

We are very strict about intellectual property. Because it is a very serious matter. Since the foundation of Davantech we are a trustworthy supplier. Signing a Non Disclosure Agreement or NDA is very common for us. And we respect that. It would be impossible to be in the business for product engineering and product assembling if we do not respect our customers IP. We are a factory with Belgian and Chinese values. There is no problem of IP when manufacturing parts. Our workers and our sub-contractors have no interest in copying parts. Hence they don’t know what the parts are used for. Products are assembled in our factory. Only our management knows the purpose of most products and they are all bound to respecting the IP of our customers. It has to be said that new products which are manufactured in small to middle sized series don’t show the potential to be copied. Next, we help our customers to apply for Patents and Utility models in China. As a result, it would be impossible for other factories to produce and export the products. You don’t have to worry when you work with Davantech.

Can I visit the factory in China ?

Absolutely ! We welcome our customers and potential new customers to visit our factory in Zhangmutou, Dongguan. Because, our policy is very open. We are glad to show our way of working which is slightly different than in an average Chinese factory. More specifically, because we are influenced by our Belgian general manager. Furthermore, we have Chinese and Western project managers. They will will show your around in the different departments : CNC machining, CNC milling and turning and assembly. Next, we guide you through the offices and engineering department.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping cost is calculated when we make a quotation, depending on the required products, shipping address and shipping method. Customers also have the option to use their own shipping accounts (e.g. DHL or UPS) for Express delivery. Next the goods can be shipped on pallets or containers from the nearest sea port (Yantian, Shenzhen). Usually we offer the unit cost Ex Factory. In addition we charge the FOB cost (Export documents and trucking to the sea port) Customers are responsible for duties and fees associated with international shipping. For shipping outside of China, the customer must provide a valid shipping account. Our current shipping service provider includes UPS, TNT, FEDEX and DHL.

You are a Dutch-Chinese company does it cost more?

Not at all ! You benefit from our Western and Chinese expertise in product engineering, manufacturing and quality management. At the same time, we offer you Chinese prices, which are still low compared to many Western countries. The cost is not influenced by the fact we are a Dutch-Chinese company. We don’t charge more and yet you benefit from our large experience and quality management.

Why would I outsource manufacturing to China ?

If your company faces high labor costs or high overhead costs. You can chose outsourcing your manufacturing to China. However, there are more benefits for having your products made in a company like Davantech. We should mention the fast response time for quotations and starting up the production. In addition we have skilled and motivated workers who work 10 hours per day. It is our intention to process your products faster, cheaper and at a better quality. Outsourcing is always a great option when you have labor-intensive products, or when they require a repetitive production processes. Also, if you need to expand your manufacturing capacity but cannot justify the costs immediately. Lastly, outsourcing is an option if you want to produce your component with different materials without incurring large-scale prototyping costs. For all these circumstances, however, China factories can provide various cost-effective options. Molds and toolings made in China often costs less than 30 to 50% compared to overseas manufacturing.

There are several reasons why a company might consider outsourcing manufacturing to China:

  1. Cost Savings: China has a reputation for being a low-cost manufacturing hub, thanks to its abundance of skilled labor, relatively low wages, and government subsidies. This can translate into significant cost savings for companies, especially those that produce high volumes of products.
  2. Access to Skilled Labor: China has a large pool of skilled workers with expertise in a range of industries, from electronics to textiles. This means that companies can often find highly skilled labor at a lower cost than they might in other countries.
  3. Infrastructure: China has invested heavily in infrastructure, including transportation networks, ports, and industrial parks. This can make it easier and more cost-effective for companies to move goods around the country, as well as export products to other markets.
  4. Scale: China is home to a large and growing consumer market, which can make it an attractive location for companies that want to scale up their operations quickly. In addition, China’s manufacturing ecosystem is highly integrated, with many suppliers and vendors located in close proximity to each other, which can help companies streamline their supply chains and improve efficiency.
  5. Regulatory Environment: While China’s regulatory environment can be complex and challenging to navigate, the government has made significant efforts in recent years to improve transparency and reduce bureaucracy. This can make it easier for companies to do business in China, especially if they work with experienced partners or consultants.

It’s worth noting that outsourcing manufacturing to China is not without its challenges, and companies should carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risks and costs involved. Factors such as language barriers, intellectual property protection, and political instability can all impact the success of outsourcing initiatives. Are you asking yourself: why would I outsource manufacturing to China? We explain here what the benefits are for your business.

Is there a minimum order quantity at Davantech?

No. We don’t have a minimum order quantity for CNC machining. However, the order quantity directly influences the cost of manufacturing. Startup-costs, overhead and manufacturing costs increase the price of small series. The larger the series the better we can improve and maintain the manufacturing process and quality. Davantech is not the average mass production factory. We have always seen the potential of startups and small business’s. Because they have the potential to grow. Therefore we will evaluate each request and produce even smaller to mid size series. Our business model is based on long term cooperation where trust and support are key factors. Productions of 1 to 20 parts is considered as a prototype series. 20 to 500 pieces is a small series. 500 – 10 000 pieces are medium series. Above 10 000 pieces is mass production. On the other hand, we require a minimum of 1000 pieces for plastic injection molding and overmolding. Else it would not justify the production of the molds involved.

How can Davantech offer a variety of manufacturing services?

Are you wondering how can Davantech offer a variety of manufacturing services? More specific, how can we offer CNC machining and combine the parts through product assembly? Our business started back in 2010 where we only sourced parts and products. Because of our good cooperation with a Dutch product development company we started to assemble products. We had to get our small to mid-sized production orders done at large factories who were only interested in large production orders. They did not really care about quality and timing. As a result, we started buying injection machines, milling machines and turning machines in order to have full control over the manufacturing process as well as the quality control. We don’t only want to take mass production orders. Davantech’s intention is to offer the best solutions for its customers. Today we are still expanding the possibilities in manufacturing techniques and capacity. We use the large supply chain in Dongguan to source smaller components which require specific machinery. All the rest we tent to do it our self. Our philosophy is : what you do by yourself you do it better !

How fast can I get my products ?

Production time varies by manufacturing technology and your location is also one of the factor to consider. When getting a quote, you can find the “Estimated Shipping Date” in the Quotation page. This is our standard expected turnaround. Whenever possible, we try to beat that timing if we can. Customer’s satisfaction is our key of success. CNC machining takes a minimum of 14 days (including planning, procurement of raw materials, production and quality check). Assembly requires minimum 20 days after manufacturing of parts. For injection molding you have to count several steps in the manufacturing process:

  • Mold manufacturing: 30–45 working days
  • Mold testing (first out-of-mold sample): 2–5 working days
  • Shipping of the sample for acceptance and evaluation by customer: 5–10 working days
  • Mass production injection molding: 1500–2200 molding cycles/day starting from 14 working days
  • Mass production overmolding: avg 500 molding cycles/day starting from 14 working days

Shipping Express shipping will take 3 to 8 working days. Sea freight will take about 6 weeks. Lead times can vary depending on your location

What tolerances do you guarantee and which standards do you use?

For most metals we work to ±0.02–0.05 mm; tighter features on request with CMM verification. Defaults: ISO 2768 (unless specified), GD&T per ISO 1101/ASME Y14.5.

Can you provide FAI/PPAP and full inspection reports?

Yes. We offer FAI for new parts, CMM reports on CTQs, and PPAP-lite through full PPAP (levels 1–3) depending on your program.

Which materials are stocked and traceable?

Aluminum 6061/6082/7075, SS 304/316, carbon steels, brass, and common engineering plastics (ABS, PC, POM, PA, PEEK). Mill/lot certs are linked to each job.

What finishes can you supply and how do you control them?

Bead-blast, Type II/III anodizing, passivation (ASTM A967), Zn/Ni/Cr plating, black oxide, powder coat, and polishing. We control thickness/adhesion and can mask or re-machine critical bores.

Do you support 5-axis and complex parts?

Yes—3/4/5-axis milling and turning with fixture design and CAM support. We’ll recommend DFM tweaks to reduce setups and risk. 3 and 4-axis are in-house. 5-axis is done at a sub-contractor

How do engineering changes (ECOs) get handled?

We log revision, confirm effectivity, quarantine superseded prints, and label WIP/stock by rev. Quotes and timelines are updated if the change impacts cost or lead time.

Can you assemble and function-test?

Yes—mechanical/electro-mechanical assembly, threaded inserts, cable & connector overmolding, and bespoke test fixtures with documented QC plans.

What is your sample policy?

For new parts we can ship production-representative samples for approval. After sign-off, we release the full lot. Rework or remake is our responsibility if parts deviate from the approved spec. We charge a sample fee and shipping cost

How do you package for export?

Samples are protected with packing paper or bubble foil. Palletized or carton shipments with photos pre-dispatch.

Which Incoterms and shipping options do you support?

EXW/FOB standard; DAP/DDP on request. Express air for speed; ocean for economy. We can ship on your courier account if preferred.

What are typical payment terms?

For first orders: 60% deposit, balance before shipment. Net terms are available after history. Invoices match the legal entity on the ISO scope.

How do you manage IP and data security beyond the NDA?

Role-based access to files, project-scoped sharing, watermarking on request, and supplier NDAs. We avoid exposing full assemblies to sub-vendors.

How do Chinese holidays impact schedules?

Capacity tightens around Chinese New Year and Golden Week. We bring materials forward, book finishing early, and propose buffers in your plan.

What’s your capacity right now?

We operate 60+ CNC machines (3/4/5-axis milling and turning). Share your target dates and we’ll schedule by capability and inspection load. 25 Injection machines 15 to 50 tons

Can you help improve my design for manufacturability?

Yes—DFM reviews at RFQ (radii, tool reach, wall thickness, datum scheme, finish impact) with clear trade-offs on cost/lead time.

What compliance can you support (RoHS/REACH)?

We can provide RoHS/REACH declarations and finishing certificates. Add any customer-specific compliance to the RFQ.