Dove Data Products had quality and delivery problems related to the foam they were using in its Z-blade cartridge because the supplier manufactured parts abroad.

The Z-blade cartridge assembly consists of a Mylar blade and an adhesive-backed piece of foam.


Dove Data Products, a remanufacturer and supplier of laser toner cartridges, ribbons and ink-jet cartridges for computer printers, wanted to enhance the overall quality and performance of its Z-blade cartridge assembly, which consists of a Mylar blade and an adhesive-backed piece of foam that wipes and seals the toner within the cartridge.

The company had quality and delivery problems related to the foam they were using because the supplier manufactured parts abroad. To resolve this problem, Dove Data sought a partnership with a local manufacturer to provide foam material that would last longer than what OEMs were using for their range of toner cartridges.

Dove Data turned to Fabrico, a company that specializes in design and manufacturing services for adhesives and flexible materials. Using its extensive supplier network, Fabrico sourced an open-cell foam that is less expensive and can handle 10,000 to 20,000 rotations. In addition, assembly rigidity and adhesive bonding strength have been increased.

For more on custom design and manufacturing services, call 800-351-8273 or visit www.fabrico.com.