As an agriculture purchasing manager, it’s expected that you can find and buy the right bin bolt for the project at hand. Regardless of the type or size of bolt you’re planning to purchase, there are five things that you should be looking for in the bolt that you will buy.

1. Strength

In order to ensure quality, you need strength, and strength will depend on the material and grade chosen for your bin bolt. You don’t want to damage or destroy your bin because the bolts you used were the wrong grade. Your bolts need to be able to withstand the load applied to them. When purchasing your bolts, make sure the various materials used are high in quality—not cheap— and that the grades you choose are right for your project, so you can guarantee that your bolts are strong enough.

2. Durability

Of course, your company is expecting to create bins that last, which means that durability is a top priority. As the agriculture purchasing manager, you need to make sure the bolt you buy can withstand extreme weather conditions, like excessive wind and rain, so it won’t become damaged or rusted by weather or other outdoor considerations.

3. Grade

The agriculture purchasing manager is expected to understand the different grades of steel made to create a bolt. Because durability and strength are such important factors in choosing a bin bolt, you need to look at the grade of materials being used. The higher the grade, the better the bolt. A grade 2 steel will be less expensive, but could break under pressure, while a grade 5 is a stronger option, and a grade 8 steel is hardened for greater strength, but will be more expensive to procure. The grade will ultimately make or break the quality of your bolt—it affects the tensile strength, yield strength, and load resistance. So choose wisely and make sure the grade used can withstand the load being placed on the bolt for your specific project.

4. Custom Design

Quality is necessary whether you are choosing a standard bolt or not. However, not all standard bolts will work for every project. If you need different bolts to fit your bin, you’ll need to find a manufacturer that can create custom designs—a manufacturer with the right skils have the expertise and experience needed to create the exact bolt you’re looking for. As the agriculture purchasing manager, you certainly don’t want to settle and risk buying a bolt that doesn’t exactly meet your needs. So find a supplier that specializes in custom designs and creations. Get the length, thickness, material, and shape you actually need.

5. Manufacturing Quality

Without manufacturing quality, it won’t matter if you have the best grade steel or the right bolt size for your project. If manufacturing equipment isn’t being maintained properly, it can destroy your bolt. Poor manufacturing can cause safety risks, leaks, rust, and quick wear and tear. Wherever you choose to purchase your bin bolts should be up to date on their equipment and tool maintenance. If you’re unsure, take a tour of its facilities to see that everything is on par with your expectations.

When you’re purchasing bin bolts, you should keep these five considerations in mind so you get the product that’s right for your company needs. Get bolts that are strong and durable and made of the right steel grade. Choose a manufacturer that specializes in custom creations if you need it, and make sure your supplier’s equipment is well maintained and can produce quality.